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INDIA – AB InBev India has partnered with the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) to empower micro-entrepreneurs across India through its ‘Swadhaar’ program.
The initiative aims to support small businesses, particularly those in rural and semi-rural areas, by offering them digital tools and access to national markets.
The ONDC is a Government of India initiative designed to foster inclusive growth in digital commerce.
Through this network, AB InBev India plans to address the challenges faced by micro-enterprises in sectors such as food processing, retail distribution, and allied industries. Many of these businesses lack access to digital resources and national markets, limiting their growth and income potential.
AB InBev India’s ‘Swadhaar’ program focuses on empowering micro-entrepreneurs, particularly farmers, micro-businesses, MSMEs, and Kirana stores with an annual turnover of less than Rs. 3 crores (US$358,635).
The initiative targets businesses in rural, semi-rural, and peri-urban areas, aiming to bridge the digital divide that has hindered their expansion.
Anasuya Ray, Vice President of Corporate Affairs at AB InBev India, highlighted the significance of the program, stating, “Swadhaar will create an equitable and thriving ecosystem for micro-enterprises. By leveraging the ONDC Network, we aim to bridge the digital divide and unlock multiple opportunities for small businesses.”
Ray added that the program would not only empower small businesses but also strengthen AB InBev’s value chain.
Through ‘Swadhaar,’ AB InBev India plans to onboard over 5,000 new sellers onto the ONDC Network by 2030, contributing to sustainable economic growth and the empowerment of rural communities.
In its first year, the program will focus on empowering 500 small-scale sellers across Karnataka, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and West Bengal. Special emphasis will be placed on onboarding women-led enterprises, farmers, nano-businesses, and MSMEs from sectors like retail, FMCG, agro-food, and allied industries.
Koshy, Managing Director and CEO of ONDC, commended the initiative, stating, “By prioritizing underserved segments such as women-led enterprises and rural businesses, we’re fundamentally reshaping how small businesses engage in the digital economy.”
Earlier this year, AB InBev India joined forces with Heineken’s United Breweries and Carlsberg to establish the Brewers Association of India, aiming to push for favorable regulations in the Indian beer market.
The trade group formed in partnership with the World Brewing Alliance (WBA) seeks to drive “innovation, moderation and sustainability” in the Indian beer market.
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