In the foothills of Dehradun, Sangeeta had been quietly building a small incense- making venture from her home – work rooted in patience, skill, and determination.Though her products carried the fragrance of tradition, her business remained limited by the lack of raw material, packaging, and market linkages.
Her journey shifted course when she was awarded ₹1 lakh seed grant under the Grameen Heroes initiative. The support allowed her to invest where it mattered most. She procured 20–25 quintals of raw material, ensuring continuity of production, and introduced professionally designed packaging that gave her products a distinct identity and stronger market appeal.
The impact was immediate and measurable. She has already sold 5-6 quintals, a clear sign of how rapidly her business has grown since the grant.
This investment sparked new energy and opportunity. Sangeeta soon employed 4–5 women from her village, offering them dignified work and a steady source of income. What once felt like an individual struggle began transforming into a shared journey of growth for several families.
She hopes to expand her production, reach new markets, and employ even more women, especially those who have limited livelihood options.Her story reflects how targeted support can transform a home-based enterprise into a catalyst for collective progress.
