The World Bank’s competitive grant program, “Development Marketplace” (DM) provides funding to innovative social enterprises working on projects with high potential for development impact. The Program is currently accepting proposals from such projects in India.
The India DM is focused on identifying Inclusive Business Models that can scale impact in the States of Bihar, Rajasthan and Orissa. Inclusive business models are those offering goods/ services and contributing to income generation of the poor in financially sustainable and scalable ways. They productively integrate those living at the base of the economic pyramid into their value chains as consumers, producers and/or distributors. Examples of functional areas where these models play a key role in fostering the development agenda include, but are not restricted to, health, water, sanitation, energy, education, financial services, agriculture, vocational training and livelihood support.
The India DM will award 13 winners, selected by a jury of experts. Each winning project will receive USD 50,000 in two installments over 24 months. IFC Advisory Services will monitor the grant implementation over the 24-month period. Organizations may be considered for second stage financing as well.
The deadline to submit proposals is 23 January 2011. For more information, visit this link.
