The Community for Resource Elevation and Effective Development (CREED) conducted the historic 12-day CREED Expo 2024 at Lakshidhar Bora Kshetra, Digholi Pukhuri, Guwahati, from November 29 to December 10. This initiative seeks to empower women and youth while offering a stage for showcasing the varied skills and business pursuits of Northeast India.
The 2024 CREED Expo showcases a diverse mix of handloom, handicrafts, food processing and agri-based products. Entrepreneurs from across the Northeastern region, Kashmir, Rajasthan, Bangladesh and even international exhibitors from Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, Nepal, UAE, and Bhutan are using the platform to expand their market reach.
In a recent conversation with Business North East (BNE), CREED founder Jenifer Borghohain said, “Our vision is not just to provide a platform for these entrepreneurs but also to help them connect with the larger market, scale their businesses and ultimately, create long-term economic benefits. We are grateful for the support from our sponsors and government partners. This Expo is a culmination of years of hard work and dedication to empowering the underrepresented segments of society”.
CREED has also ensured training programs remain accessible to all by keeping the registration fees at a minimal cost. The aim is to include individuals who may not have access to expensive training programs but possess the talent and potential to thrive with the right support.
“We want to nurture local talent and give them the skills they need to succeed in the market. This Expo is just one step in a much larger effort to build an ecosystem that supports continuous learning and growth for women and youth entrepreneurs,” she said, adding that over 60 stalls with handloom, handcraft, food processing and agri-based products were displayed.
"The total revenue generated for this event is approximately Rs 10 lakhs, which will cover the operational costs of the event," she stated.
Moreover, while discussing CREED's long-term goals, she said, "We want to keep developing this platform, bringing in more sponsors, and broadening the event's audience. We plan to grow outside of the Northeast in the upcoming years, providing even more workshops, training courses and platforms for market connections."
The CREED Expo 2024 highlights Guwahati's growing prominence as a hub for entrepreneurship and cultural exchange. In addition to showcasing the region's rich culture, the event establishes the area as a major force in the world economy.
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