Latest news with #i2i
Fashion Network
12 hours ago
- Business
- Fashion Network
Walmart Vriddhi makes new pledge to MSMEs
Walmart's supplier development initiative, Walmart Vriddhi, has announced a new partnership with the Ideas to Impact Foundation (i2i) to support 100,000 additional micro, small and medium enterprises in India over the next three years. The expanded initiative will leverage Walmart's global supply chain experience and Flipkart's digital commerce ecosystem to help MSMEs scale their businesses nationally and internationally, the business announced in a press release. So far, Walmart Vriddhi has trained more than 70,000 MSMEs, enabling many to achieve around 55% year-on-year growth through personalised mentorship, strategic partnerships and digital tools. 'We are constantly inspired by India's vibrant innovation ecosystem and the growth potential of its MSMEs,' said Jason Fremstad, senior vice president of supplier development at Walmart in a press release. 'As we enter the next phase of Walmart Vriddhi, we're empowering MSMEs with new tools for digital growth, sustainability and export readiness.' The programme also facilitates access to the Walmart Marketplace and Flipkart Marketplace, helping small businesses participate in global and domestic e-commerce. New memorandums of understanding with state governments, including Haryana, are expected to expand outreach. Flipkart Group's Rajneesh Kumar said the partnership reflects an ongoing commitment to making digital commerce more accessible to India's small business community. The programme, launched in 2019, aims to equip entrepreneurs with critical business skills and market access through a free training model.
Business Recorder
29-05-2025
- Business
- Business Recorder
i2i launches toolkit for startups looking to enter Saudi market
Invest2innovate (i2i), which supports startup communities, launched its 'Scale to KSA (Kingdom of Saudi Arabia) Toolkit' to help entrepreneurs navigate 'one of the most ambitious and fast-moving markets in the region'. In a LinkedIn post, i2i CEO Sarah Munir said the toolkit is a practical, founder-tested guide based on months of primary and secondary research as well as conversations with founders who have taken their companies to Saudi Arabia. 'It breaks down everything – from business setup and legal compliance to GTM (go-to market strategy), hiring, and budgeting — into clear, actionable steps,' she said. 'This toolkit is not just meant to be a resource, it's a roadmap designed to remove the guesswork and help founders scale with clarity and confidence,' she wrote, adding: 'If you're eyeing Saudi, this is your starting point.' According to its website, the toolkit will include information on the Saudi market landscape, including growth trends, funding flows and policy changes. It also has information on how to set up a business, including details on documentation, visas and timelines, as well as details about regulation, taxation, and financial planning, along with relevant events and accelerator lists. Saudi Arabia is fast becoming an important market for businesses. According to an April report by Grant Thornton, it 'is rapidly emerging as a powerhouse in the global startup ecosystem, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship to build the next generation of billion-dollar companies.' 'With a strategic vision, robust economic reforms, and increasing investment in technology and infrastructure, the Kingdom is positioning itself as a leading hub for startups aspiring to scale into unicorns,' the report noted. The Saudi government is promoting innovation and entrepreneurship through various initiatives, including the Vision 2030 plan, which aims to diversify the economy and create a more vibrant startup ecosystem. The Kingdom is attracting both local and international investors, with the government providing funding and support through various programs, like the Saudi Unicorns Program and Tech Growth Financing. Reports also state Saudi Arabia's location is a major advantage, serving as a gateway to Asia, Africa, and Europe, offering potential for international growth and expansion.
