PRIME RURAL

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The PRIME-Sauramandala Rural Entrepreneurship Fellowship (PSREF) is a one-of-a-kind opportunity for young changemakers to contribute to the development of underdeveloped rural areas actively. This initiative, in collaboration with the Sauramandala Foundation, is a rural entrepreneurship program by the Planning Department of the Government of Meghalaya.

In a world that is rapidly urbanising, where the clamour of city lights often overshadows the tranquillity of the countryside, PSREF hopes to build a conducive ecosystem for entrepreneurs from the most disconnected remote areas. This fellowship is more than just a program, it’s a bridge. A bridge between aspirations and opportunities. Between traditional wisdom and modern innovation. Between the quiet villages and the bustling global markets.
Every entrepreneur that emerges from the PSREF is not just an individual with a business plan, but a story of grit, resilience, and an undying spirit. Their journey is a testament to the fact that with the right guidance, resources, and belief, dreams can take flight, no matter where they take root.

PRIME Fellows and local PRIME Associates will be placed in remote blocks of Meghalaya, where they’ll actively promote rural entrepreneurship. PRIME Associates from Meghalaya will provide valuable insights into the local culture and dynamics. Fellows and Associates will work full-time for the duration of the fellowship, focusing on identifying promising rural entrepreneurs and addressing their challenges.

ENTREPRENEURS' SUPPORT AREAS

Registration & Licesing

Business planning

Book Keeping & Units Economics

Raw Materials Linkages

Branding & Packaging

Product Development

Mechansation

Trainings

Exposure Visit

Capacity Building

Man-Power

Marketing

Market Linkages

Built Environment

Solar Electrification

Funding

THE ROLE OF A FELLOW/ASSOCIATE

Catalyzing Rural Change: As a Fellow or Associate, your mission is to be a catalyst for change, nurturing a supportive environment for rural entrepreneurs in Meghalaya. Your contributions will empower these entrepreneurs, shifting the focus from traditional government jobs to entrepreneurship, especially among the youth. You’ll have the privilege of belonging to an exclusive PSREF community seamlessly integrated with the PRIME ecosystem. This network enables continuous collaboration with fellow members, the dedicated PRIME-Sauramandala team, and respected mentors from diverse sectors, guiding you toward your goals.
Gaining Valuable Experience: By collaborating closely with diverse teams, experts, and funding organizations. Throughout your engagement, you will also experience frequent cross-functional interactions and involvement in projects supported by external organizations such as the World Bank, JICA, or IFAD. This involvement guarantees a unique exposure to rural development, unlike any other, enabling you to gain profound insights and knowledge. Armed with this expertise, you will have the opportunity to contribute to state-level policy discussions and help shape new initiatives aimed at promoting rural entrepreneurship.
Influencing Policy Changes: By collecting insights from the field and working in partnership with policymakers to address pressing challenges. Your role will also entail regular engagement with high-level officials, including Deputy Commissioners, Principal Secretaries, and community leaders. This exposure will provide you with insights into the decision-making processes at the highest levels. While working in some of the most remote and underdeveloped communities in the country, you will also develop essential life skills, including effective interpersonal communication, interdisciplinary collaboration, and critical and design thinking.
Rural Immersion: By becoming an integral part of the local community, sharing experiences, culture, and knowledge. The experiences and knowledge you acquire during your time in the PSREF program will thoroughly prepare you for a future career in rural development, startup incubation, or entrepreneurship promotion, whether with national or international organizations. Upon completion, you will receive a comprehensive certificate that highlights your achievements and areas of expertise.

Program Structure for PRIME Fellows

Phase I)
2-months Immersion

  • Onboarding & Teambuilding
  • Rural Immersion
  • Understanding local scenarios in villages/blocks
  • Connecting with local players
  • Project Planning

Phase II)
14-months: Intensive scouting of rural entrepreneurs

  • Identification of high-potential entrepreneurs
  • Mapping of gaps and challenges
  • Diagnostic and Intervention planning
  • Hand Holding process
  • Mentor sessions/ Training sessions/ Capacity Building sessions/ Exposure visits
  • Cross learning between blocks

Phase III)
2-months: Policy Advocacy & Transitioning

  • Documentation of Outcomes and Learnings for Cycle 2 of PSREF
  • Presentation of insights to administration
  • Implementation of Feedbacks into PSREF structure
  • Handover of responsibilities to new Fellows/Associates

Application Process

The application process for the PRIME-Sauramandala Rural Entrepreneurship Fellowship for both PRIME Fellows as well as PRIME Associates is a three-stage process. As we are looking for real changemakers, our application process is slightly different than what you would expect.

The interview process will be conducted in a rolling manner, early applications are encouraged. Applications not adhering to the above requirement or process will be disqualified. Current employees/contractors of the Government of Meghalaya, PRIME, MBMA, MBDA, MIE or its affiliated organizations and NGOs are not eligible to apply. AT A GLANCE

The interview process will be conducted in a rolling manner, early applications are encouraged. Applications not adhering to the above requirement or process will be disqualified. Current employees/contractors of the Government of Meghalaya, PRIME, MBMA, MBDA, MIE or its affiliated organizations and NGOs are not eligible to apply.

At a Glance

 

PRIME Fellows

PRIME Associates

Candidate Origin

From across India

Citizens/ youth of Meghalaya with a minimum of 3 years of full-time technical experience or who have completed the fellowship in the capacity of Associate can also apply for the position of Fellow

Citizens/Youth of Meghalaya only

Duration of Program

18 months (Full-time in Meghalaya)

18 months (Full-time in Meghalaya)

Qualification*

Graduate/Postgraduate in any discipline. 

Additional 2-3 years of  experience working in rural development, entrepreneurship, agri-business, incubation or startups.

Graduate/Postgraduate in any discipline (Freshers accepted). 

First demonstrated project, research or field work experience related to rural development, entrepreneurship, agri-business, incubation or startups.

Further Requirements

Age between 24 and 35.

Strong interest in rural development through entrepreneurship and innovation with the intent to work in this field in the future.

Passionate about creating a change at the grassroot level and comfortable working/staying in villages

Age between 20 and 28.

Strong interest in rural development through entrepreneurship and innovation with the intent to work in this field in the future.

Passionate about creating a change at the grassroot level and comfortable working/staying in villages.

Native or having strong roots in the block the candidate is applying for.

Working Language

English

English and the local dialect of the respective block the candidate is applying for.

Stipend

₹40,000/month 

₹30,000/month

Number of Roles Phase 1

12

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For any questions and doubts, please feel free to get in touch with us on info@primemeghalaya.com & info@sauramandala.org

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