Nasscom Foundation & Google.org Empower 1,00,000 Rural Women through Entrepreneurship

By: WE Staff | Wednesday, 14 June 2023

A transformative initiative supported by Nasscom Foundation and Google.org has empowered over 1,00,000 rural women, enabling them to pursue their entrepreneurial aspirations. The programme seeks to close the gender gap in digital thrift and promote inclusivity. It spans 18 districts in Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Bihar, and Rajasthan.

As part of the program, more than 1500 women entrepreneurs have become master trainers, imparting their knowledge to empower 20,000 marginalized women. Through a cascade model, these women have been equipped with digital, financial, and entrepreneurial skills, allowing them to leverage digital literacy and create income opportunities. The program's DigiVaani call center initiative has also reached out to 90,000 rural women in Northern India, providing them with guidance and support to enhance their digital skills and improve their livelihoods.

An outstanding achievement of the program has been the increased awareness and access to various government schemes. A remarkable 92% of the master trainers now possess knowledge of these schemes, with 61% availing of their benefits. Moreover, 52% of the participants have adopted various digital payment platforms for their business transactions, showcasing a significant shift toward digitalization. Of those involved, 58% have embraced entrepreneurship as a result of the program, with 73% leveraging social media platforms to gain exposure, enhance their skills, and promote their products to a wider audience. Additionally, 82% of the master trainers are now aware of various e-commerce platforms and their applications.

Nidhi Bhasin, CEO of Nasscom Foundation, emphasizes the vital role women entrepreneurs play in driving economic growth and innovation. She emphasizes the program's purpose of unclosing the potential of women entrepreneurs by equipping them with the necessary aids, tools, skills, networks, and chances they need to thrive.

Marija Ralic, Lead at Google.org APAC, expresses pride in supporting the work of Nasscom Foundation in empowering women entrepreneurs in rural communities. She acknowledges the inspiring stories of beneficiaries who have been equipped with the skills, resources, and support needed to unleash their full potential and drive innovation in the digital economy. Ralic commends Nasscom Foundation for fostering a more inclusive and diverse entrepreneurial ecosystem and looks forward to witnessing the positive impact these women will have on society and the economy.

The program acknowledges the underrepresentation of women in the digital economy, which leads to missed economic opportunities and perpetuates gender inequalities. Launched in 2021, the initiative aims to address these challenges by equipping women entrepreneurs with digital, financial, and entrepreneurship skills. This comprehensive approach has resulted in increased income and economic independence for the participants, empowering them to create a lasting impact in their communities.

The Nasscom Foundation and Google.org's Entrepreneurship Program is a beacon of hope for women in rural areas, offering them the tools and support they need to thrive in the digital era. By promoting gender inclusivity and fostering entrepreneurship, the program is driving positive change and empowering women to achieve their fullest potential.