Technology Common: Affordable and Appropriate Technology for Craft MSMEs
Projects- Funder : Ford Foundation
- Duration : May 2018 – April 2022
- Theme : Integrating technology to enhance productivity, sustainability, and innovation in crafts
Key Achievements
Delivered hands-on training to 1,200 artisans, enabling technology adoption across 35+ artisan groups.
Integrated technology-driven design and production processes, improving productivity by 30%.
Promoted resource conservation, waste reduction, and clean energy use, improving environmental impact and profitability.
About the Project
The Technology Common project focused on democratizing access to affordable and appropriate technologies for craft-based MSMEs. The initiative introduced cost-effective
solutions to improve production efficiency, resource conservation, and environmental sustainability.
Through pilot projects across craft clusters, SSA demonstrated the potential of technology-driven innovation in addressing critical challenges — from energy inefficiency and waste generation to limited scalability of artisan enterprises.
Designed and implemented 32 pilot projects
Currently operational across producer groups and social enterprises.
Waste Management & Water Conservation
13 projects
- Textile wastewater treatment
- Solid waste management
- Upcycling of natural fibers, textiles, yarns, and leather waste
- Rainwater harvesting systems
Renewable and Clean Energy
9 projects
- Solar-powered micro-grid production units
- Solar pumps for drinking water
- Solar water heaters for washing
- Smokeless ovens for clean cooking
- Solar-operated wood seasoning systems
Production Efficiency & Quality Assurance
4 projects
- Rope-making and twisting machines
- Wood seasoning and drying equipment
Portable Workstations 6 projects
6 projects
- For small-scale production units