Young people who live in poverty in India are often the beneficiaries/customers of social enterprises, rather than being the leaders, innovators or entrepreneurs. Sustainability is a distant dream in poor communities, where the choice is to survive, earn a living, rather than recycle, or not pollute. Climate Change Fund is a non-profit risk capital fund for young people who have a sustainable business idea for the betterment of Climate.
Young entrepreneurs in India cannot yet access capital or design-skills help to innovate and made new products that solve local problems, generate income and create jobs. Thinking through sustainability and design-thinking is a new approach for young people who live in poverty when they are considering starting a new enterprise.
These young entrepreneurs will be able to access seed capital in order to start their enterprises. In a system of pay-it-forward, where these entrepreneurs in turn invest in more young entrepreneurs will create a chain of interest free credit. Along with the seed capital, these enterprises will be mentored by leading industry experts to ensure that they are a success.
20 young entrepreneurs will receive start-up grants to establish sustainable enterprises in their communities. Possible income enhancement of 25%-257% and $200 per month per person depending upon whether the enterprise is a startup or a scale up. Employment Impact: Each entrepreneur/enterprise will create between 8-10 jobs in their community. A total of 160-200 jobs to be created with more than 60% employment generated for women.
