Empowering Women Artisans in India's Footwear Industry

Kaarigar Mandi, a social enterprise based in Agra, India, is revolutionizing the footwear industry by empowering women artisans and creating sustainable business opportunities.

• The company, founded in 2019, initially focused on selling artisan-made footwear online.
• However, they faced challenges due to the pandemic and the need to meet the standardized production requirements of international buyers.
• This led to a pivot in their strategy, where they now focus on selling in bulk to established footwear brands.

Traditional Practices and Gender Inequality in India's Footwear Industry

Agra, India, renowned for the Taj Mahal, is also a prominent footwear manufacturing hub. Despite a long-standing tradition of artisanal footwear production, the industry is dominated by men.

• Women artisans traditionally worked from home, inheriting skills from their mothers, but were paid indirectly through their husbands.
• This system perpetuated gender inequality and limited women's economic empowerment.

Kaarigar Mandi's Innovative Approach to Empowering Women in India

Kaarigar Mandi recognized the potential of these skilled women artisans and aimed to create a more equitable and sustainable ecosystem.

• They started working directly with women artisans, providing them with basic hand tools and training.
• The company then shifted to a model of providing quality control systems and advanced training to ensure standardized production.
• This included introducing new skills like pattern cutting and stitching, and providing access to mechanized equipment.

Kaarigar Mandi's Impact on Women Artisans in India

The company's efforts have had a profound impact on women artisans in India.

• They are now paid directly for their work, and their daily wages have increased by an average of 98%.
• The company aims to increase the proportion of women artisans to 50% in the next four years and to 90% by 2035.
• Some women artisans have even started their own micro-enterprises, training other women in the shoemaking process.

Building a Sustainable Business Model in India's Footwear Industry

Kaarigar Mandi's approach not only empowers women but also creates a sustainable business model.

• By working with established footwear brands, they ensure a steady demand for their products.
• Their focus on quality control and standardized production ensures that they meet the requirements of international buyers.

Investing in India's Social Enterprise

Kaarigar Mandi has received recognition for its innovative approach and impact on the footwear industry in India.

• They participated in an accelerator program run by the Miller Center for Social Entrepreneurship, which supports businesses with social missions.
• This program has provided them with valuable resources and support to continue their growth and expansion.

A Vision for a More Equitable Footwear Industry in India

Kaarigar Mandi's journey highlights the potential for social enterprises to drive positive change in India's business landscape.

• By empowering women artisans, promoting entrepreneurship, and creating sustainable business opportunities, they are contributing to a more equitable and inclusive future for the footwear industry in India.