Dharavimarket.com

Website that brings recognition and empowerment to artisans working in Mumbai’s Dharavi slum.

Problem

Dharavi, a neighbourhood of about a million people in the centre of Mumbai, is home to thousands of small-scale and cottage enterprises, including those producing pottery, leather goods, and zari embroidery, some of which have been passed down through families for many generations. Despite the fact that many of them are organised as cooperatives and community-based organisations, they have limited reach. Additionally, middlemen and traders take advantage of these artists, causing their goods to be sold for low rates. Ancient wisdom that has been passed down through the years is perishing in the filth of an urban slum.

Social Impact

Dharavimarket.com also empowers many women-led businesses that are key to social capital and community growth.

  • 200+ local artisans joining regular employment every year
  • 30% increase in income for local craftsmen
  • 2000+ people served food during the pandemic
  • 100% growth in distribution of locally manufactured products
  • 10+ websites and NGOs launched and managed

Solution

Dharavimarket.com was established in order to stop this gradual extinction and revive these lost crafts with an aim to make the skills of slum dwellers accessible to middle- and upper-class consumers while providing the local artisans direct access to markets.
Breaking the cycle of vulnerability, Dharavi Market is a social enterprise creating a profound impact by enabling the craftspeople and local artisans in the vibrant community at Dharavi. The platform helps businesses grow and trains craftsmen to provide world-class services by

  • selling their products through the internet
  • obtaining orders from India and abroad
  • making slum dwellers an integral part of the nation’s economy
  • creating equal opportunities to grow and earn

Green Stories

Recognising our impact creators