Since our founding in 2011, Upaya has always been about job creation and asking the question how can we help entrepreneurs create more dignified jobs for the poorest of the poor? And how can we do it faster?

This year, we are kicking off a new strategy that takes many of the lessons of our first six years and allows us to help more early-stage businesses create more lasting jobs. Today, we are opening applications for our first formalized accelerator program. It will be a six-month program for 8-10 companies leading to an investor showcase. Upaya will be one of several impact investors making decisions about which companies to invest in. Interested companies should apply by 15 February 2017.

Help us spread the word! We know there are amazing, job-creating entrepreneurs who share our passion for creating opportunities for India's poorest out there. We can't wait to work with them!