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From Fields to Fortune: Micro Funding Transforms Rural Women in Assam
Creating Micro-Entrepreneurship Through Micro Funding
In the serene landscapes of Assam’s Tamulpur district, a quiet revolution is underway. Spearheaded by the Navoday Foundation with the steadfast backing of the philanthropic initiative LivingMyPromise (LMP), this movement is transforming rural women into micro-entrepreneurs, fostering financial independence, and reshaping the socio-economic fabric of the region.
At the heart of this change is Dolphin Tank, an annual giving event organized by LivingMyPromise to support grassroots NGOs like the Navoday Foundation. In 2021, Navoday became a standout beneficiary, receiving INR 24 lakhs for a mushroom cultivation training program. This investment laid the foundation for an extraordinary story of growth, innovation, and empowerment.
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Turning Mushrooms into Prosperity
The initiative, envisioned by Navoday’s founder, Purna Chetry, sought to train 200 women in mushroom cultivation and provide them with the resources to begin their entrepreneurial journeys. The results surpassed expectations.
By 2024, the program had reached 1,200 women, each earning between INR 10,000 and 12,000 per month—an income significantly higher than their previous earnings of INR 3,500 to INR 7,000.
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What began as a modest effort quickly gained momentum. The cumulative monthly income of participants surged to INR 1.2 crore, translating into an annual figure of approximately INR 14 crore. This success underscores the power of strategic investment in women-led micro enterprises.
“From a seed investment of INR 24 lakhs, the returns have been transformational—not just financially but socially as well,” shared Purna Chetry. “We’ve not only debunked local myths about mushrooms being poisonous but also created thriving markets, with traders from as far as Bhutan now vying for our produce.”
Small Investments, Big Change: Rural Women Thrive in Assam
While the economic benefits are significant, the impact of the initiative extends far beyond income generation. Women who were once confined to traditional roles now hold the reins of their financial destinies. The project has boosted their confidence, improved mental well-being, and elevated their status within their communities.
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These women have also begun accessing microfinance loans to expand their ventures, demonstrating the scalability of the program. The initiative has not only fostered self-reliance but also catalyzed a ripple effect, inspiring other rural communities to explore similar opportunities.
“This isn’t just about economic upliftment,” said Gunjan Thaney, Head of LivingMyPromise. “It’s about breaking barriers, challenging stereotypes, and building sustainable livelihoods that empower entire communities.”
Dolphin Tank: A Game-Changer for Women Entrepreneurs in Assam
LivingMyPromise, a unique community of philanthropists committed to donating at least 50% of their wealth, has redefined the approach to grassroots development. Through Dolphin Tank, the organization identifies and funds promising NGOs with budgets ranging from INR 30 lakhs to INR 2 crores.
Unlike conventional grants, Dolphin Tank provides unrestricted funding, enabling NGOs to innovate and maximize their impact. “The flexibility of Dolphin Tank funding is what allows initiatives like Navoday’s mushroom cultivation program to thrive,” added Thaney.
Empowering Dreams: A Model for Replication
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As Navoday looks to scale its program further, its success offers a blueprint for empowering rural women through micro-entrepreneurship. The partnership between Navoday Foundation and LivingMyPromise illustrates the potential of combining visionary grassroots leadership with strategic philanthropic support.
For the women of Tamulpur, mushrooms are more than just a crop—they symbolize opportunity, resilience, and a brighter future. And with the continued efforts of organizations like Navoday Foundation and LivingMyPromise, this transformation is just the beginning.
By empowering women at the grassroots, Dolphin Tank is proving that philanthropy, when combined with innovative solutions, can spark systemic change that uplifts entire communities.
Disclaimer: This is a company/PR press release, creatively edited without altering facts. TICE is not responsible for business decisions based on this report and does not verify its accuracy.