Partner
Implementation Partner
Knowledge Partner
Program Overview
Building a Path to Innovation
The need for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) in the workforce is undeniable, heralding a new era of innovation and growth for Indian businesses.
Global studies highlight that diverse perspectives unleash transformative power in companies. A high correlation has been found between DEIA( Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Accessibility) maturity at the workplace and improved competitive position, agility, innovation and brand perception.
The DEIA Catalyst Program is a pioneering initiative dedicated to fostering Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) within micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSME) in India. Through awareness sessions, in-person boot camps, policy development support, and national dialogue forums, the program aims to equip participating organisations with the tools and resources needed to thrive in today’s dynamic business landscape.
April 2024
Program Launch
12 Months
Duration
5 Curated Sessions
Hybrid Mode
Cohort of 75 MSME
Fully Funded
Program Objective
Meaningful business transformation
guided by DEIA principles
DEIA catalyst program is a ground-breaking initiative fully funded by a prestigious grant from the U.S. Consulate General , Mumbai.
The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the focus on DEIA, prompting organizations to prioritise it. However, despite constitutional provisions and legislative strides, many businesses overlook DEIA’s potential, hindering diversity’s benefits.
The DEIA Catalyst Program addresses this gap, empowering MSME to unlock their potential. By embracing DEIA principles, businesses enhance innovation, engagement, and decision-making. Funded by the U.S. Consulate General, Mumbai, the program promotes shared values between the U.S. and India, fostering meaningful change.
Methodology
Led by the Entrepreneurship Development Center (EDC) as the Implementation Lead
and PeopleWiz Consulting LLP as the Knowledge Partner, the program will follow
a 12-month schedule tailored to meet the needs of MSME in a hybrid model.
This schedule will include:
Virtual Awareness Sessions
Regular online sessions aimed at providing participants with insights into the benefits and best practices of DEIA in the workplace.
In-Person Bootcamps
Intensive workshops conducted in select locations to provide hands-on training and support in developing inclusive policies and practices.
Policy Development Support
Individualized assistance and guidance to help participating organizations develop and implement inclusive policies tailored to their unique needs.
Participation in National Dialogue
Opportunities for MSME to engage in a national dialogue on DEIA through participation in a dedicated conclave, where they can share insights, challenges, and best practices with industry peers and stakeholders.
Program Roadmap
Key program milestones over 12 months
Virtual
- DEIA Awareness for all zones
- To be planned in April 2024
In person
- West Zone : May 24
- South Zone : June 24
- North Zone : July 24
- East Zone : July 24
In person
- West Zone : June 24
- South Zone : July 24
- North Zone : August 2024
- East Zone : August 2024
Virtual
- West Zone : August 2024
- South Zone : September 2024
- North Zone : October 2024
- East Zone : October 2024
Virtual
- West Zone : Oct 2024
- South Zone : November 2024
- North Zone : Dec 2024
- East Zone: : Dec 2024
Benefits of the Program
Tools that accelerate innovation
by leveraging diversity
By participating in the DEIA Catalyst Program, MSME will gain access to invaluable resources, training, and support to drive meaningful change within their organizations. This includes enhanced awareness of DEIA principles, practical tools and strategies for policy development, and opportunities to connect and collaborate with other industry leaders.
DEIA mature companies report significantly more innovation and creativity leading to significantly more business advantages.
DEIA efforts attract and retain top talent from diverse backgrounds, boosting the talent pool and fostering a more engaged workforce.
A strong DEIA reputation attracts customers, investors, and partners, boosting the brand image and market competitiveness.
Selected MSME will be able to showcase their products and services to investors who prioritize DEIA initiatives.
A few outstanding MSME will be granted an honorary membership, providing networking opportunities and exposure to a wider business community.
Regular networking events will facilitate collaboration and knowledge exchange among MSME, fostering a sense of community.
A select group of MSME will receive invitations for one-on-one meetings with the US Counsel General to present policy changes on select topics.
A select group of MSME will receive VC credit points that can be redeemed against infrastructure or other services provided by VC.
Eligibility
You can apply to be a part of the cohort if you meet all of these criteria
Registered in India
Investment in Plant and Machinery or Equipment does not exceed 50 crore rupees
Annual turnover does not exceed 250 crore rupees
We look forward to welcoming you to the DEIA Catalyst Program and
embarking on this transformative journey together
Join us
on this transformative journey
towards a more inclusive and prosperous future. Embrace diversity, empower your workforce, and unlock the limitless possibilities of DEIA with the DEIA Catalyst Program.
About
The U.S. Consulate General, Mumbai
Partner
The U.S. Consulate General Mumbai – representing the states of Maharashtra, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Goa – provides an array of services to American citizens in the district, assists non-Americans with visas to the United States, and works with local partners and governments across western India on issues of interest to U.S.India relations.
The Consulate’s Public Diplomacy Section oversees public engagement in Western India to help strengthen people-to-people and business ties between the United States and India, and to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion through cultural activities, public events, exchange programs, and media engagements on issues important to the U.S. India relationship.
About
Entrepreneurship Development
Center (EDC)
Implementation Partner
The Venture Center (incorporated as the Entrepreneurship Development Center) is one of the top technology business incubators in India. Created in 2007 under schemes of the Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR), Government of India.
Venture Center has supported >750+ startups and entrepreneurs that also includes 180+ resident start-ups (the ones located physically within Venture Center campus) with 85% of the start-ups still active & thriving. Startup enterprises supported in FY 2021-22 have provided 1000+ direct jobs/year; Most of these are STEM jobs and attracted more than ~ INR 96 Cr (equivalent to $ 12M) in risk capital investments and funding, reported a revenue generation of ~ INR 370 Cr (equivalent to $ 45M) . The start-ups supported as current incubatee are holding >130 unique patent families and have developed world-class services and products several of which are first in India and first in the world.
About
PeopleWiz Consulting LLP
Knowledge Partner
Established in 2011, Peoplewiz Consulting is a premier firm with offices in Pune, Bangalore, and Singapore. The firm has emerged as a key contributor to the MSME ecosystem, offering expertise as HR mentors, organization design specialists, and cultivators of inclusive culture.
Peoplwiz Consulting recognizes the critical role that people play in the success of startups and focuses on building strong human resource frameworks that foster growth, innovation, and sustainability. Through its comprehensive services, national and international presence, and commitment to progressive people policies, Peoplewiz Consulting has established itself as a trusted partner for MSME . The firm continues to play a vital role in empowering organizations, driving their success, and contributing to the growth and development of the MSME sector.
FAQ
The selection process considers factors such as the organization’s commitment to DEIA, current level of diversity practices, potential for growth and impact, and alignment with program objectives.
The program employs a tailored approach using a combination of virtual sessions and in person bootcamps, offering region-specific sessions, industry-relevant content, and personalized support to address the unique challenges and contexts of MSME across various regions and industries.
Participating MSME can expect comprehensive support, including virtual awareness sessions, in-person bootcamps, policy development guidance, participation in national dialogues and networking events.
The program will employ a robust monitoring and evaluation framework, tracking key performance indicators related to DEIA outcomes, such as innovation levels, talent retention rates, employer brand perception, legal compliance, and cultural transformation within organizations.
No, there are no financial obligations for participating MSME. The program is fully funded by a prestigious grant from the U.S. Consulate General in Mumbai, ensuring that all selected organizations can benefit from its offerings without incurring any costs. However, any travel related or out-of-pocket expenses to bootcamps near you will need to be borne by the participant.
Beyond formal sessions and bootcamps, the program will organize regular networking events, webinars, and a national conclave to foster continuous learning, collaboration, and knowledge exchange among MSME, creating a supportive community for ongoing growth and development.