Threads of Hope - Bamboo | Industree Foundation with BNP Paribas

PROGRESS project is a transformative initiative aimed at creating sustainable livelihoods for tribal women in Karnataka through the bamboo value chain. Implemented by Industree Foundation with support from BNP Paribas under the PROGRESS project, the initiative directly empowers over 400 women and indirectly impacts more than 3,200 individuals in rural and tribal communities.

The project focuses on building producer-owned enterprises by equipping women from indigenous communities such as the Soligas, Yeravas, Jenu Kurubas, Medhars, and Betta Kurubas with skills in bamboo craftsmanship, digital literacy, and enterprise management. It revitalizes traditional knowledge while addressing the lack of formal market access and sustainable income. Using Industree’s 6C framework, which includes Capacity, Capital, Channel, Community, Creative Services, and Collectives- the project supported women from training to market linkages. It has led to the establishment of functional production units, where women co-manage operations and make key decisions about their businesses.

The project also promotes environmental sustainability by leveraging bamboo, a fast-growing and renewable resource, and supporting circular economies. With improved access to clean energy, savings, and education, participating women are becoming agents of change within their households and communities. Handcrafted bamboo products created under this initiative are being connected to global markets, including buyers like IKEA and others, creating a sustainable, scalable model of rural entrepreneurship rooted in gender equity and climate resilience.

Get these products at: greenkraft.co.in