E-commerce has undoubtedly transformed the way we shop, work, and do business, becoming an integral part of our everyday lives. For working women, especially, it offers a convenient platform to balance work and family responsibilities while accessing a broader market. However, there is still a significant section of society that remains unaware of how digital marketing and e-commerce platforms can help them grow their businesses—particularly rural women entrepreneurs. These women, often running small businesses or producing handcrafted goods, may lack the resources, knowledge, or technology to reach a wider audience.
WeAct, an initiative by Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India (EDII) empowers rural women entrepreneurs, playing a crucial role in bridging this digital divide. WeAct helps its members by providing them with the necessary tools and support to join popular e-commerce platforms. By doing so, WeAct members gain visibility, increase their market reach, and eventually grow their businesses. This onboarding process includes training on how to use e-commerce platforms effectively, manage online listings, and leverage digital marketing techniques to enhance sales and brand presence.
In the fiscal year 2024-25, WeAct has already made significant strides in supporting these entrepreneurs. To date, WeAct has successfully registered 61 members from three enterprises, along with one individual entrepreneur, onto Meesho, a popular e-commerce platform. This is a vital first step in opening up new market opportunities for WeAct members, allowing them to expand their customer base far beyond their local communities. Through these efforts, WeAct members will build successful businesses and contribute to their economic empowerment and independence.
Registering with e-commerce platforms through WeAct brings several key benefits for the members:
E-commerce platforms offer WeAct members the ability to reach a vast and diverse customer base, extending beyond their local area. This enables them to sell their products to people across the country or even globally, opening up new revenue streams and business opportunities.
By being listed on e-commerce platforms, WeAct members have gained more exposure to potential customers. These platforms provide a dedicated space for businesses to showcase their products, making it easier for buyers to find them. WeAct helps ensure that their products are listed attractively and are easy to discover.
Traditional marketing can be expensive for small businesses. E-commerce platforms like Meesho often have built-in promotional tools, such as targeted ads, discounts, and deals, which allow entrepreneurs to market their products more affordably and effectively. Through WeAct’s guidance, women can leverage these tools to drive sales.
Access to Training and Support
One of the major challenges rural women entrepreneurs face is the lack of knowledge of digital literacy. WeAct provides training to entrepreneurs on how to use e-commerce platforms, manage online orders, handle customer inquiries, and optimise product listings. This helps them build the necessary skills to succeed in the digital marketplace and maintain their businesses efficiently.
Improved Business Sustainability
By diversifying their customer base and embracing the online marketplace, WeAct members can ensure a steady stream of income, even during times when local demand may be slow. E-commerce provides a more stable and sustainable business model, as it is not bound by geographical limitations.
Convenient and Flexible Operations
E-commerce platforms allow WeAct members to manage their businesses from home or any location, providing them with the flexibility to balance their personal and professional lives. This is particularly beneficial for women who may have family obligations and other responsibilities.
E-commerce platforms ensure secure payment methods, which reduce the risk of fraud and guarantee that WeAct members are paid for their products. These platforms also manage logistics, helping with shipping and returns, which simplifies the business process for rural entrepreneurs.
By joining an e-commerce platform, rural women entrepreneurs become part of a larger community of sellers. This network can provide opportunities for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and mentorship, further helping them grow and develop their businesses.
Conclusion
WeAct is making a significant impact by empowering its members to harness the power of e-commerce and digital marketing. Our ongoing support helps WeAct members expand their market reach and improve business sustainability. WeAct’s efforts are bridging the digital divide, offering rural women entrepreneurs the opportunity to access new revenue streams, enhance their visibility, and grow their businesses. As WeAct continues to support and guide its members, creating a more inclusive and digitally connected entrepreneurial ecosystem, where WeAct members can thrive in the global marketplace.