What We Do

Startup Village Entrepreneurship Program (SVEP)

Swami Vivekananda Samaja Seva Samsthe (SVSSS) is implementing the Startup Village Entrepreneurship Program (SVEP) under the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM) in five blocks of Karnataka. This flagship initiative is designed to promote entrepreneurship at the grassroots level, foster economic empowerment, and create a sustainable livelihood ecosystem.

Vision and Objectives

The SVEP aims to nurture rural entrepreneurs by providing them with the necessary skills, knowledge, and financial support to establish and manage sustainable enterprises. This program strives to: 

• Build an inclusive ecosystem for entrepreneurship development. 
• Enhance rural livelihoods by creating diverse and resilient income-generating opportunities. 
• Empower women and marginalised communities through enterprise promotion.

Key Components

1. Training and Capacity Building 
   • Comprehensive training programs are conducted for aspiring entrepreneurs to enhance their business management and technical skills. 
   • Capacity-building initiatives focus on developing a pool of trained Community Resource Persons for Enterprise Promotion (CRP-EP) who act as local change agents. These resource persons guide and mentor entrepreneurs at every stage of their journey. 
2. Financial Support and Linkages 
   • Entrepreneurs are provided with seed funding to kick-start their enterprises. 
   • Bank linkages are facilitated to ensure access to credit for scaling up their businesses. 
   • Financial literacy programs are conducted to help entrepreneurs manage finances effectively. 
3. Sustainable Livelihood Ecosystem 
   • The program fosters a self-reliant ecosystem by promoting environmentally sustainable and locally relevant business models. 
   • Enterprises are encouraged to adopt eco-friendly practices to ensure long-term sustainability. 
4. Handholding and Mentorship 
   • Entrepreneurs receive continuous support through handholding and personalised mentorship. 
   • Regular B2B meetings and networking opportunities are organised to connect rural entrepreneurs with larger markets and stakeholders.

Impact and Outcomes

The SVEP program has: 

• Enabled the creation of sustainable livelihood opportunities in rural areas. 
• Empowered women, youth, and marginalised communities to become successful entrepreneurs. 
• Established a robust pool of trained resource persons to drive enterprise promotion and provide long-term support at the grassroots level.

Looking Ahead

SVSSS is committed to expanding the reach and impact of the SVEP in Karnataka. By fostering a sustainable livelihood ecosystem, building capacities, and promoting innovative enterprises, the program envisions transforming rural communities into hubs of entrepreneurship and economic growth.

Shree Basaveshwar Farmers Producers Organisation (SBFPO)

Shree Basaveshwar Farmers Producers Organisation (SBFPO) is a social enterprise dedicated to transforming the lives of farmers and promoting sustainable agricultural practices through innovation, collaboration, and inclusivity. 

Who We Are

Established in 2015 under the Karnataka Societies Registration Act of 1960, SBFPO was initiated with the support of NABARD by SVSSS to empower farmers and create a platform for collective growth. Today, we are proud to represent a community of over 2,000 progressive farmer members who cultivate a diverse range of high-quality agricultural products across Karnataka.

Our Mission

Our mission is to: 

• Empower farmers through access to modern technology, resources, and knowledge. 
• Promote sustainable agriculture by adopting eco-friendly and innovative farming practices. 
• Strengthen market linkages to ensure fair pricing and increased profitability for farmers.

Our Core Values

1. Sustainability: Promoting agricultural practices that ensure the long-term health of our environment. 
2. Empowerment: Enhancing the livelihoods of farmers by providing resources, knowledge, and opportunities. 
3. Collaboration: Building strong networks and partnerships to create a thriving agricultural ecosystem.

What We Do 

1. Capacity Building and Training 
   • Conducting regular workshops and training sessions on sustainable farming techniques, organic agriculture, and modern cultivation methods. 
   • Building a knowledge-sharing platform for farmers to exchange ideas and practices. 
2. Sustainable Farming Practices 
   • Encouraging the adoption of eco-friendly agricultural inputs and methods. 
   • Promoting water and soil conservation to improve productivity sustainably. 
3. Market Linkages and Value Chain Development 
   • Establishing direct market linkages to eliminate intermediaries and provide fair pricing for produce. 
   • Supporting value addition through processing, branding, and packaging initiatives to increase market competitiveness. 
4. Access to Financial Support 
   • Facilitating access to credit and insurance for farmers to reduce risks and enhance productivity. 
   • Offering financial literacy programs to help members manage resources efficiently. 
5. Community Development 
   • Creating employment opportunities within the rural economy.
   • Fostering a sense of community through collective decision-making and shared goals.

Our Impact

Since its inception, SBFPO has: 

• Improved the incomes and livelihoods of its 2,000+ farmer members. 
• Supported the cultivation of a diverse range of sustainable and high-quality crops. 
• Built strong market linkages that ensure fair prices and wider reach for farmers’ produce. 
• Encouraged the widespread adoption of eco-friendly and sustainable agricultural practices.

Micro Enterprise Development (MED)

Swami Vivekananda Samaja Seva Samsthe (SVSSS) is committed to delivering quality training programs that ensure the successful implementation of entrepreneurial initiatives under the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM). In collaboration with the Rural Self Employment Training Institutes (RSETIs) and with certification provided by the National Academy of RUDSETI (NAR), SVSSS focuses on equipping individuals with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to succeed in entrepreneurship. 

Micro Enterprise Development (MED) Program

Under the NRLM framework, SVSSS is implementing the Micro Enterprise Development (MED) Program across 20 blocks in Karnataka. This program is designed to:

• Provide certified training programs through RSETIs, ensuring the highest standards of skill development.
• Nurture and support micro-entrepreneurs, fostering sustainable livelihoods in rural and semi-urban communities.

Key Features of the Program

1. Certified Training for Excellence

• Training programs are conducted in collaboration with RSETIs, ensuring high-quality, hands-on training experiences.
• Entrepreneurs receive certification from the National Academy of RUDSETI (NAR), a prestigious recognition that enhances credibility and opens doors to additional opportunities.

2. Community Cadre Development

• The program has successfully trained 200 Community Cadres for Entrepreneurship Activities, who act as local facilitators and mentors for aspiring entrepreneurs.
• These cadres play a pivotal role in ensuring the success and sustainability of micro-enterprises.

3. Comprehensive Capacity Building

• Training modules include financial management, market linkages, resource planning, legal compliance, and business growth strategies.
• Participants gain practical skills and the confidence to establish and grow their enterprises.

4. Inclusive Growth

• The program emphasises the empowerment of women and marginalised groups, fostering economic inclusivity and social equity.

Impact and Outcomes

By leveraging partnerships with RSETIs and NAR, the MED Program has:

• Created a pool of skilled and certified entrepreneurs across Karnataka. 
• Strengthened local economies through the establishment of sustainable micro-enterprises. 
• Fostered a sustainable livelihood ecosystem for long-term community development.

Our Commitment to Excellence

 At SVSSS, we believe in the transformative power of quality training and certified programs. Through the MED Program, we are empowering individuals with the tools, resources, and recognition they need to thrive, building a brighter future for rural and semi-urban communities in Karnataka.

 ​

Cluster Development Initiatives

Swami Vivekananda Samaja Seva Samsthe (SVSSS) is proud to announce the implementation of a Micro Cluster Development Initiative in Koppal district. The initiative focuses on supporting 50-100 women artisans engaged in the traditional art of manufacturing GI-tagged Kinhal Toys. This initiative aims to preserve the rich cultural heritage of Kinhal craftsmanship while empowering women artisans to achieve sustainable livelihoods.

The Objective of the Micro Cluster Initiative

The Kinhal Toys Micro Cluster is designed to:

• Support and strengthen women artisans involved in the manufacturing of Kinhal toys.
• Promote the GI-tagged Kinhal Toys as Karnataka's unique cultural and artistic heritage.
• Foster sustainable livelihoods through skill enhancement, design innovation, and market linkages.

Key Components of the Initiative

1. Formation of a Producer Enterprise (PE)
2. • A dedicated Producer Enterprise (PE) will be formed to unite the artisans under a formal and structured framework.
   • This will enable collective decision-making, improved resource management, and enhanced bargaining power.
3. Design Intervention and Skill Enhancement
4. • Collaboration with experts and designers to introduce innovative designs while retaining the traditional essence of Kinhal toys.
   • Conducting capacity-building workshops to upskill artisans in advanced techniques, product diversification, and quality improvement. 

    3. Design Intervention and Skill Enhancement

1. • Establishing strong market linkages to connect artisans with national and international markets.
   • Developing a robust branding strategy to promote Kinhal toys as a symbol of cultural heritage.
   • Facilitating participation in exhibitions, trade fairs, and e-commerce platforms to expand market reach.

    4. Market Linkages and Branding

1. • Providing artisans with access to credit facilities and technical support to improve production processes.
   • Facilitating financial literacy programs to empower artisans in managing their finances effectively.

      5. Design Intervention and Skill Enhancement

1. • Encouraging the use of eco-friendly materials and sustainable manufacturing practices to align with global standards.

Impact of the Initiative

• Economic Empowerment: Enhancing the income and livelihoods of women artisans by creating a structured and supportive ecosystem.
• Cultural Preservation: Revitalising the traditional art form of Kinhal toys and ensuring its sustainability for future generations.
• Community Development: Strengthening the social and economic fabric of the artisan community in Koppal district.

Our Vision

At SVSSS, we are committed to empowering women artisans and preserving Karnataka’s rich cultural heritage. Through the Kinhal Toys Micro Cluster Initiative, we aim to create a model of inclusive growth that blends tradition with innovation, ensuring long-term benefits for artisans and the larger community. .

Skill Development Projects

1. Implemented various Skill Development Training in Hospet Town Panchayat, contributing to enhancing the business and technical skills of the local population.
2. Delivered Skill Development Training to Self-Help Groups (SHGs) under the Swarna Jayanti Shahari Rozgar Yojana (SJSY) in Belgaum District since 2008. The program focuses on building capacities, promoting income-generating activities, and supporting marketing arrangements for SHG members.
3. Conducted Awareness Generation and Entrepreneurship Awareness Programs along with multipurpose training in the production of leather articles, Lambani embroidery, and glasswork for rural SC women. Supported by the Karnataka Social Welfare Advisory Board and Women Development Corporation, these programs have enabled 500 women to achieve self-employment and sustainable livelihoods.

Branding and Market Linkage

Swami Vivekananda Samaja Seva Samsthe (SVSSS) has successfully implemented the Stree Samarthy Yojane (SSY) under the Karnataka State Rural Livelihood Promotion Society (KSRLPS). This initiative is a transformative step toward empowering women entrepreneurs by formalising their businesses, providing skill training, and establishing vital market linkages for sustainable livelihoods

Key Achievements Under SSY by SVSSS

1.      Entrepreneurship Training and Development

1. • Identified and trained 1,500 women entrepreneurs across Karnataka, focusing on micro and small business development.
   • Delivered customised training programs in:
   • • Business registration and formalisation.
     • Marketing and branding of SHG products.
     • Financial management and resource planning.
     • Digital tools for business growth.

2.      Special Focus on Pickle-Making Entrepreneurs

1. • Supported women entrepreneurs engaged in pickle-making, a significant livelihood activity for SHG members.
   • Provided hands-on training in production techniques, quality standards, and food safety compliance.
   • Assisted entrepreneurs in creating unique and market-ready products through innovative packaging and branding solutions.

3.      Market Linkages and Promotion

1. • Connected pickle-making entrepreneurs and other SHG members to local, regional, and national markets, enabling better income opportunities.
   • Facilitated participation in exhibitions, trade fairs, and e-commerce platforms to enhance product visibility and sales.
   • Strengthened supply chains for bulk orders, ensuring timely delivery and improved profitability.

4.      Capacity Building and Mentorship

1. • Conducted workshops on value addition and product diversification to help entrepreneurs expand their offerings.
   • Provided continuous mentorship and handholding support to ensure sustained business growth.
   • Encouraged collaboration by forming producer groups, enabling collective production and marketing.

5.      Formalisation of Businesses

1. • Assisted entrepreneurs in registering their enterprises and meeting compliance requirements.

Promoted the establishment of collective enterprises, enhancing scalability and competitive advantage

Impact of SVSSS’s Implementation of SSY

• Economic Growth: Women entrepreneurs, including those in pickle-making, have experienced substantial income growth.
• Empowered Communities: Women have gained confidence and leadership skills, contributing actively to community development.
• Sustainable Livelihoods: Businesses have become more resilient through formalisation, training, and expanded market access.

Cultural Preservation: Local and traditional pickle recipes have gained recognition, promoting the cultural heritage of Karnataka.

Looking Ahead

SVSSS continues to champion the cause of women entrepreneurs by offering innovative solutions and creating sustainable livelihood ecosystems. The Stree Samarthy Yojane will remain a cornerstone for empowering women, nurturing micro-enterprises, and strengthening rural economies across Karnataka.

• Implemented the Handicraft Promotion Project under Ambedkar Vikas Shilp Yojane through the Ministry of Textiles, promoting traditional crafts and facilitating market access for artisans.
• Established extensive connections with quality assurance, packaging, marketing, and financial service providers, ensuring comprehensive support across the value chain.

Financial Management Expertise

a.       Specialising in forming Joint Liability Groups (JLGs) and bank linkage programs supported by NABARD, which provides credit access and financial stability to rural entrepreneurs.

b.      Expertise in linking small businesses to formal financial services, helping them secure necessary capital for growth and development.

Monitoring and Evaluation:

Implemented community development activities under the World Bank-assisted Jal Nirmal Project, demonstrating intense monitoring and evaluation mechanisms that ensure accountability and track the impact of interventions.