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In a landmark step toward inclusive economic growth, Franchise India Holdings Limited (FIHL) and the Dalit Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DICCI) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to promote entrepreneurship and business ownership among SC-ST communities through franchising. The MoU was signed at the Bharat Startup Summit 2025, held at IICC Yashobhoomi on 17th & 18th of May, organized by Franchise India in the esteemed presence of Padma Shri Dr. Milind Kamble, Chairman, DICCI, Ravi Kumar Narra, President, DICCI and Ashita Marya, CEO, Franchise India.
This strategic partnership is poised to become a catalyst in the socio-economic empowerment of underrepresented groups, providing structured support and access to sustainable business models. The MoU signifies a shared vision to foster inclusive development, where aspiring entrepreneurs from SC (Schedule Caste)-ST (Schedule Tribe) backgrounds can transition from job seekers to job creators, contributing meaningfully to India’s economy.
Under the MoU, both organizations have committed to facilitating access to franchise opportunities tailored to first-generation entrepreneurs. They will bridge the knowledge gap through training programs, workshops, and mentorship initiatives, and create curated portfolios of business opportunities ranging from economical to high-growth models. The agreement also includes subsidized participation for DICCI members in national franchise events, expos, and startup summits organized by Franchise India. Additionally, the two parties will work toward strategic partnerships and investment matchmaking to ensure the success and scalability of these ventures.
“This partnership will add a new dimension to our mission of economic empowerment. By combining DICCI’s community reach with Franchise India’s deep expertise in franchising and business expansion, we are setting the stage for transformative change,” said Dr. Milind Kamble.
FIHL, with its foundational pillars—Knowledge, Opportunity, Network, and Success—will play a central role in identifying, grooming, and connecting entrepreneurs with viable franchise models. DICCI, meanwhile, will mobilize grassroots entrepreneurs through its vast national network to benefit from these initiatives.
The collaboration will also focus on capacity building and knowledge transfer through expert-led content, industry training, and franchise education. Franchise success stories from the community will be highlighted as role models to inspire others. Community-level business events, exclusive opportunity zones, and exhibitions will be curated to foster interest in franchising as a viable path to livelihood and wealth creation.
Speaking at the MoU signing, Ashita Marya, CEO of Franchise India, emphasized the broader impact of the initiative: “We believe franchising is a great leveler—it offers a structured entry into entrepreneurship. Our collaboration with DICCI will open doors for underserved communities to join India’s booming business ecosystem with the right guidance and mentorship.”
As India builds toward becoming a $5 trillion economy, initiatives like this will ensure that no community is left behind in the nation's growth journey. This MoU sets the tone for a new era of inclusive franchising, where opportunity meets aspiration across every segment of society.
