Empowering SHGs
BENGALURU:
In a major boost to women-led Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) across Karnataka, the National Livelihood Mission (NLM) under the Department of Skill Development, Entrepreneurship and Livelihood has entered into a strategic partnership with Walmart Vriddhi to enhance their digital and entrepreneurial capabilities.
Under this three-year collaboration, Walmart Vriddhi, through its implementation partner Ideas to Impact Foundation (i2i), will provide free digital learning modules, business mentorship, and e-commerce tools to SHGs. The initiative aims to help women entrepreneurs modernize operations, adopt e-commerce platforms, and expand market access through Flipkart and Walmart Marketplace.
Across Karnataka, thousands of SHGs produce a range of locally made daily-use products. However, their sales have largely been restricted to occasional fairs organized by government departments. With the Walmart Vriddhi partnership, these groups will now be trained in digital literacy, online marketing, packaging, and supply chain management — key skills for scaling in today’s market.
The MoU was signed on Tuesday in Bengaluru between NLM Director R. Snehal and Parul Soni, Trustee, i2i Foundation, in the presence of Skill Development and Medical Education Minister Dr. Sharanaprakash R. Patil and Chief Secretary Dr. Shalini Rajneesh.
Dr. Patil said the initiative could transform Karnataka’s SHG ecosystem. “This partnership will empower women entrepreneurs to expand their reach and earn fair value for their work. Walmart Vriddhi’s expertise in digital and business training will help SHGs build sustainable livelihoods,” he said.
Chief Secretary Dr. Shalini Rajneesh noted that the collaboration would give global visibility to Karnataka’s SHG products. “Our local talent needed global exposure. Walmart Vriddhi brings that bridge,” she remarked.
Walmart Senior Vice President Jason Fremstad said the initiative will help SHGs strengthen competitiveness and turn local enterprises into global success stories.
To further promote SHG-made products, the Karnataka government plans to set up an exclusive SHG Product Centre at Kempegowda International Airport, offering a permanent retail platform to reach both domestic and international travellers.
