Kathmandu, Nepal (October 10, 2018) — Chaudhary Foundation’s Unnati initiative signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Poverty Alleviation Fund (PAF) to revive and promote rural Nepali artisans.

The MoU will revitalize clusters of rural Nepali artisans by implement backward integration and market lineage by providing supply outlets to the local producers.

“We are pleased to announce the partnership between PAF and Unnati to help in the promotion and preservation of Nepalese cottage industries,” said Surahbi Chaudhary, the director of Unnati. “This partnership shall further strengthen our commitment towards the growth and sustainability of rural enterprises by help creating market spaces and upgradation of artisan products and services.”

Unnati is a women’s empowerment and microenterprise program that supports lower socioeconomic communities. The program teaches women livelihood skills while supporting traditional arts and providing income-generating opportunities.

“Unnati is a social initiative of Chaudhary Foundation designed to provide sustainable income generating opportunities to women entrepreneurs of Nepal,” Chaudhary said. “It is designed to bring in product innovation, promotion and market linkages for the rural and traditional industries, products and services of the Himalayan valley. Our commitment stands to create as many livelihood and skill training opportunities for the rural artisans.”

The new partnership between Chaudhary Foundation and PAF will also promote Nepali culture and traditions, including cuisine and costumes.