Gramodhaya, India’s pioneering e-commerce marketplace dedicated exclusively to rural entrepreneurs is set to launch soon, today announced a landmark pre-seed funding round led by visionary investor Raji Krishnan. This strategic investment will power the platform’s development and nationwide rollout, beginning with free vendor onboarding in Ernakulam district, Kerala, and full operations by March 2026.

Raji Krishnan, a strategic HR powerhouse with 20+ years at Microsoft and NIIT, IIM Bangalore (EGMP) alumna, sees rural e-commerce as destiny’s pivot. “This isn’t mere investment; it’s unleashing democracy in opportunity,” declared Krishnan. “Digitising rural supply chains fuses ‘Bharat’s’ timeless craftsmanship with the global economy, elevating artisans to entrepreneurs and igniting rural India as a dynamic force in our digital renaissance.”

India’s rural entrepreneurship ecosystem tells a tale of untapped potential overshadowed by urban dominance. Over 12 crore rural micro-enterprises sustain 60% of the nation’s workforce, yet they claim merely 10% of e-commerce sales, while urban consumers command 90% through giants like Amazon and Flipkart. Rural innovators face relentless hurdles – crumbling logistics trap deliveries to nearby cities, forcing reliance on local kiranas with punishingly slim margins. Big retailers extract 20-40% commissions, 60-120 day payment delays strangle cashflows for those living hand-to-mouth, perishable goods rot in transit, middlemen erode bargaining power, and digital barriers leave 70% offline.

Gramodhaya shatters these chains with zero-fee onboarding, Pan-India visibility, and smart logistics conquering last-mile challenges. Kicking off in Ernakulam, Kerala’s perfect rural-urban fusion, this pilot refines operations before statewide growth in Year 1, adjacent states by Year 3, and full national scale within 5 years. As India’s trailblazing rural-first platform, Gramodhaya will spotlight authentic village treasures, handicrafts, organics, spices, linking them to eager urban and global markets for enduring prosperity.

Under Kochi-based GramRise Ventures Pvt Ltd, helmed by women entrepreneurs Doramma Jose and Dony Ani Jose, Gramodhaya is born from lived rural realities. “From serene Kerala backwaters, we’ve watched families endure grueling daily treks, crushed by transport costs, spoilage, and reseller exploitation for scraps,” shared Doramma Jose. “After deep brainstorming, my son Dojo envisioned an e-commerce lifeline, Gramodhaya rises to rewrite their story.”

GramRise Ventures builds on Small Enterprise India’s 16-year legacy as India’s premier MSME knowledge powerhouse. Dojo Jose, with over two decades mastering business directories, publishing, and diverse sectors, leads operations and strategic planning. “MSMEs gained growth knowledge through our Pan-India SME conferences, our magazine, SmallEnterpriseIndia.com, and consulting services, yet their persistent demands for revenue channels exposed urban-rural gaps, Gramodhaya bridges them, ignited by Raji Krishnan’s bold trust“, said Dojo Jose.

Raji Krishnan, a strategic HR powerhouse with 20+ years at Microsoft and NIIT, IIM Bangalore (EGMP) alumna, sees rural e-commerce as destiny’s pivot. “This isn’t mere investment; it’s unleashing democracy in opportunity,” declared Krishnan. “Digitising rural supply chains fuses ‘Bharat’s’ timeless craftsmanship with the global economy, elevating artisans to entrepreneurs and igniting rural India as a dynamic force in our digital renaissance.”

Vendor onboarding kicks off late January, with nationwide launch by March 2026.

Gramodhaya, powered by GramRise Ventures Pvt Ltd, pioneers India’s first e-commerce haven for rural entrepreneurs – delivering free access, vast reach, and logistics mastery to unite urban demand with rural ingenuity.

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2025 marked a pivotal year for Indian SMEs, blending triumphs in digital transformation with enduring structural challenges across key sectors. Amid global uncertainties, policy interventions like GST 2.0 rate cuts and PM Gati Shakti propelled e-commerce and logistics forward, with order volumes surging 13.5% YoY and Tier-3 deliveries accelerating 29%. Total e-commerce GMV hit $151 billion, empowering rural entrepreneurs via platforms like Meesho and ONDC. Finance saw credit exposure climb 16% to ₹46 lakh crore, yet high rates and collateral gaps excluded micro-units. Exports reached $820 billion, but Red Sea disruptions hiked costs. Manufacturing digitised unevenly under Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes, while revenue diversified through festive booms and UPI. Digitisation engaged 43% of SMEs, unlocking efficiencies. This year positioned SMEs for resilient growth, highlighting e-commerce’s shift to habit and the urgent need for inclusive finance and clusters. As President Trump’s pro-trade policies loom, Indian SMEs stand at a crossroads of opportunity and adaptation.

Read below how each segment performed.

Finance & Banking

Indian SMEs faced a paradoxical finance landscape in 2025, where credit growth clashed with access barriers. Total small business loans surged 16% to ₹46 lakh crore, fuelled by public-sector approvals of ₹28,000 crore and RBI’s push for priority sector lending. Fintechs offered quicker approvals via digital KYC, yet high interest rates (12-15%) and collateral demands side-lined 70% of micro-units. SME IPOs bombed, with average listing gains at 12.6%, down from prior years and over 50% trading below issue price amid market volatility. Delayed payments via platforms like SAMADHAN eased cash flow for some, but informal sectors struggled without formal credit histories.

Government schemes like Emergency Credit Line Guarantee Scheme (ECLGS) extensions helped larger SMEs scale, but tiny enterprises missed out due to compliance hurdles. RBI’s digital lending norms boosted fintech inclusion, yet NPAs hovered at 5% for MSME portfolios. Overall, while aggregate lending hit records, equitable distribution remained elusive, hampering innovation and expansion for smaller players reliant on high-cost informal loans.

Logistics

Logistics transformed for SMEs in 2025, with costs dipping toward 8-9% of GDP via PM Gati Shakti’s multimodal hubs and 15,000 km of new highways. E-commerce players scaled AI for Tier-3 speed, achieving 29% faster deliveries YoY and on-time rates jumping from 28% to 36% across 635 million orders. Micro-fulfillment centers and EV last-mile fleets cut urban delivery costs by 20% for SMEs in apparel and FMCG. Challenges included pincode errors and customer absences, which spiked issues by 4%, though route optimisation tools mitigated this.

Rural SMEs benefited from drone pilots in Kerala and Northeast, slashing transit times for perishables. Yet, fragmented carrier networks raised costs for non-metro exporters. Initiatives like ONDC integrated SMEs into unified logistics, boosting reliability. Dedicated freight corridors reduced turnaround by 30% for manufacturing hubs. The year marked logistics as a growth enabler rather than bottleneck, empowering SMEs to compete nationally.

Revenue Generation

SME revenues diversified in 2025, propelled by GST 2.0 cuts on electronics and fashion from September 22, sparking 23-25% festive surges. E-commerce order volumes rose 13.5% YoY, with Mondays leading volumes and average order values climbing 21% on prepaid trust (41% of orders). Domestic marketplaces empowered rural SMEs, while UPI-driven BNPL options extended reach to low-income buyers.

Misses: Included MSME SAMADHAN’s slow dispute resolution, delaying ₹10 lakh crore in payments. Sector-specific booms hit: textiles via PLI schemes, food processing from export quotas. Digital marketing via ONDC and Google grants amplified visibility, yet 40% of SMEs reported stagnant revenues due to input cost inflation. Festive sales normalised into habits, with AI personalisation lifting repeat orders by 15%. Subscription models in SaaS and D2C added recurring streams. Revenue resilience defined the year for adaptive SMEs navigating inflation.

Export-Import

India’s exports reached $820 billion in FY25, up 6%, opening SME doors in pharma, textiles, and auto via UK-India Comprehensive Economic and Trade Partnership Agreement (UKCEPA) tariff cuts. The India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC) streamlined marine exports, reducing Suez reliance for leather and spices SMEs. Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products (RoDTEP) refunds and Export Credit Guarantee Corporation Ltd (ECGC) covers mitigated risks, aiding 20% YoY growth for labor-intensive units. Challenges: Rupee volatility and Red Sea disruptions hiked freight by 30%, squeezing margins for small importers. Geopolitics sidelined many from China shifts due to scale gaps. Government portals like Export Credit streamlined docs, yet awareness lagged in Tier-3 clusters.

Success stories: Kerala handicrafts via Amazon Global Selling hit EU markets. Duty drawback schemes reimbursed 4-7% on exports, boosting cash flow. Overall, policy tailwinds boosted participation, but logistics and compliance hurdles capped potential for fragmented SME exporters.

Manufacturing

Manufacturing SMEs grappled with promise and pitfalls in 2025, as PLI 2.0 allocated ₹1.97 lakh crore across 14 sectors. Digitisation via IoT hit 40% adoption in auto clusters, enhancing yields by 12%, but skill shortages affected 60% of units. Infrastructure like semiconductor parks in Gujarat lured investments, yet power outages and raw material imports plagued smaller players.

Misses: VC funding skewed to unicorns, leaving micro-SMEs undercapitalised. Cluster development in Coimbatore and Ludhiana improved shared tooling, cutting costs 15%. Labor reforms eased hiring, but compliance burdens rose. The year highlighted manufacturing’s pivot to green tech, with solar PLI aiding transitions. Automation pilots in Tamil Nadu factories lifted productivity 18%. Resilience through localisation defined hits for proactive SMEs amid global supply chain shifts.

Digitisation

Digitisation accelerated for 43% of SMEs in 2025, with cloud and AI budgets up 25% in IT-ITES. Udyam portal registrations topped 5 crore, unlocking GeM tenders and subsidies. IoT and ERP adoption streamlined ops in retail, boosting efficiency 18%.

Hurdles: 30% cited leadership resistance and cyber threats, especially in construction. ONDC and India Stack enabled seamless digital payments for rural units. Training via Skill India bridged gaps, with 2 million upskilled in Industry 4.0. Hits included predictive analytics slashing inventory waste. Cybersecurity frameworks like Digital Personal Data Protection Act (DPDP Act) mandated protections, reducing breaches 22%. The shift positioned SMEs for Aatmanirbhar scalability, with 70% reporting ROI within a year.

E-commerce

E-commerce matured profoundly for Indian SMEs in 2025, evolving from speculative hype to a dependable revenue engine valued at $151 billion overall, with 342 million active shoppers and 580,000 stores. Order volumes surged 13.5% YoY across 635 million tracked by ClickPost, supercharged by GST 2.0 cuts on September 22 that ignited 23-25% festive demand for electronics and fashion. Returns plummeted 7% to under 22%, thanks to precise product descriptions curbing “wrong size” and “not as described” issues, while prepaid orders normalized at 41% (up from 32%), signaling trust—especially in metros at 46%. Average order values rose 21%, as predictable deliveries encouraged bigger carts.

Tier-3 markets stole the spotlight, gaining massive momentum as AI replicated metro-grade quick commerce outward. Deliveries sped up 29% YoY—nearly 4x Tier-1 gains—with on-time rates at 36% overall, empowering rural SMEs. Prepaid adoption hit 34.5% in these areas, the fastest riser, while Mondays consistently topped volumes, turning “Monday blues” into retail therapy. Quick commerce GMV neared $6 billion, with 1,500 micro-fulfillment centers serving non-metros, where 60% of new shoppers emerged. Rural entrepreneurs in Kerala and beyond leveraged ONDC for perishables, drones, and EVs slashing last-mile costs. Wakefit’s IPO underscored operational maturity. Yet, COD reliance (59%), address typos, and customer no-shows capped perfection, up 4% in issues. Currently, as 2025 closes, Tier-3 momentum positions SMEs for 2026 dominance, with e-commerce at 8% of retail and projections to $345 billion by 2030. This “intelligence as infrastructure” era made online sales a habit, not event, for Bharat’s SMEs.

Looking Ahead to 2026

As 2025 closes, Indian SMEs stand poised for accelerated growth in 2026, building on e-commerce momentum and policy tailwinds. E-commerce GMV could double to $300 billion, with Tier-3 markets driving 40% of new orders via AI-optimised logistics and ONDC expansion, slashing rural delivery costs further. Finance inclusivity may improve as RBI’s digital lending norms mature, potentially lifting credit access to 60% of micro-SMEs through fintech-blockchain hybrids and reduced NPAs below 4%.

Logistics costs might dip under 8% of GDP with full PM Gati Shakti rollout and drone/EV ubiquity, enabling just-in-time manufacturing. Exports could surge 15% to $950 billion, fueled by IMEEC and US deals under President Trump’s administration favoring India in China shifts. PLI 3.0 and green incentives will boost manufacturing localisation to 70%, while 60% SME digitisation via UPI 3.0 and Industry 5.0 tools enhances revenues 20-25% YoY.

Challenges like climate risks and geopolitics persist, but adaptive SMEs leveraging data intelligence will thrive. 2026 heralds SMEs as India’s growth engine, targeting 10% GDP contribution through resilient, tech-led ecosystems.

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They were evaluated on their social and community impact, as well as their role in creating local employment opportunities.

The award was presented by Dr. Galla Garu’s daughter, Ramadevi Gourineni. She is Managing Director of AMARA HOSPITAL, Chairperson of Rajanna Foundation and Adjunct Faculty at Northwestern University.

The 3rd annual Amara Raja Better Way Awards 2025 was held as a grand function at the Amara Raja Group Head Office auditorium in Tirupati on 20 December 2025.

The three winners are:

Anuttama Products Private Limited won the Award for Rural Income Generation

Founded during the pandemic in the village of Bettampady – 16 km away from Puttur in the Dakshina Kannada district – the company uses a Farm-to-Bar framework to produce artisanal chocolate fuelling rural economic growth.

On behalf of Anuttama Products Pvt Ltd, the Amara Raja Better Way Award for Rural Income Generation was received by Balasubrahmanya P S , Founder & Director.

Ila Agri Services Private Limited won the Award for Best Agri-based Business.

As India’s first digital marketplace for certified agri-drone services, IlaAgri empowers farmers with technology driven solutions, fostering collaboration for mutual growth. With crop-specific climate-smart Drone Precision Spraying, the enterprise has enabled digital inclusion and strengthened community awareness, improving crop yield and creating economic multipliers.

On behalf of Ila Agri Services Pvt Ltd, the Amara Raja Better Way Award for Best Agri Based Business was received by:

• Harish Galipelli, Director & Head – Strategy
• Raghavendra Raju G V, Director & Head – Operations
• Pavan Kumar P V , Head – Business Development

Ayurarogya Saukhyam Foundation (ASF) won the Award for Women Employment.

Saukhyam pioneered the world’s first reusable menstrual pad made from banana fibre – a sustainable product innovation that has proven to be life changing for rural women livelihood.

On behalf of AyurArogya Saukhyam Foundation, the Amara Raja Better Way Award for Women Employment was received by Anju Bist, Managing Director.

“Through a diverse range of solutions and products, the winners of Amara Raja Better Way awards have made tremendous impact in the communities that they work. At Amara Raja, we believe in transforming lives and livelihoods, and these businesses have done exactly that. We wish to see them grow further, building an India that holds opportunity in every corner,” said Mr Jayadev Galla, Co-founder and Chairman, Amara Raja Group.

They were awarded Rs. 3 lakh cash prize each, and year-long support across finance, HR, marketing, IT, and supply chain.

Small Enterprise India was the proud Outreach and Validation Partner for the Amara Raja Better Way Awards for the last two consecutive years, undertaking the daunting task of reaching rural entrepreneurs across India. Rural innovators from 17 states and diverse industries participated in the 3rd Annual edition, winners ultimately chosen by an eminent jury panel at the Amara Raja Group.

About Amara Raja Group

Amara Raja Group Founded by Dr Ramachandra N Galla is a leading conglomerate with revenues exceeding $2 billion through highly engaged customers across the globe. The group has diverse businesses ranging from Automotive, EV & Industrial Batteries to Infrastructure, Electronics, Auto Components and Food Processing. Amara Raja exports its products to over 60 countries around the world and has 21,000 employees.

To drive this shift, Small Enterprise India has been actively championing the movement through our national roadshow, The Future Factory Forum. After successful editions in Bengaluru and Chennai, the next forum will take place in Coimbatore on 11 December, with a pan-India rollout planned in partnership with Nasscom CoE – IoT & AI. The objective remains clear—empower SMEs with practical, affordable, and actionable pathways to digitise their factories.

This month also celebrates the rise of Women Entrepreneurship, which continues to gain unprecedented momentum. The recent Women Entrepreneurship Conclave in Kerala drew over 1,500 women entrepreneurs across diverse sectors, reinforcing the spirit of inclusivity and innovation.

We also spotlight an inspiring rural-focused initiative—the Amara Raja Better Way Awards 2025, now in its third year. Led by the visionary legacy of Ramachandra Naidu Galla, Founder of the $2-billion Amara Raja Group, this initiative continues to uplift and honour rural entrepreneurs making meaningful impact.

With insights on HR, technology, finance, marketing, and more, our final issue of 2025 promises an engaging and enlightening read for both aspiring and established entrepreneurs.

Happy Reading!

Dojo Jose Editor-in-Chief

Indian SMEs, contributing 30% to GDP, face existential threats from global competition without Industry 4.0 adoption—IIoT, AI, automation, and robotics can slash costs by 20-30%, boost productivity 50%, and unlock export markets. Coimbatore, the “@” for textiles, pumps, and engineering, now risks stagnation amid digitisation waves; local manufacturers must integrate smart tech to scale, future-proof operations, and lead Tamil Nadu’s resurgence.

Stellar Lineup Delivers Actionable Insights

Industry leaders unpacked practical roadmaps on AI capabilities, Industry 4.0 transformation, production scheduling, systems thinking, and IIoT for smart factories at Future Factory Forum Coimbatore. Panels tackled urgent digital shifts and future-proofing strategies, equipping SMEs with low-cost tools to slash costs, boost productivity, and seize global edges.

Experts unpacked practical roadmaps across sessions:

• Senthil Kumar R (NASSCOM CoE-IoT & AI) on digital innovation.
• Dr. O.A. Balasubramaniam (Roots Group) on AI capabilities.
• Sherry Thomas (Gadgeon Systems) on Industry 4.0 transformation.
• Maria Xavier and Immanuel Raj (NTT Data) on production scheduling.
• sanjay kondaas (Kondaas Automation) on systems thinking.
• Shanmukha CG (Tally Solutions) on tech adaptation.
• Rahul K (Nuventure Connect) on IIoT and AI for smart factories.

Dynamic Panels

“Digitise or Disappear” moderated by MD Asiq (Arche Global)—and “Future-Proofing Indian Manufacturing” led by Sherry Thomas sparked urgent calls to action, with panelists including Sujith Muraleedharan (L.G. Balakrishnan), Venkatesan Narayanasamy (LMW), Dr. Eswaramurthi K (Premier Fine Linens), Jibin Dev (Quoqo), Balaji V (BAVIS), Jayakumar Radhakrishnan (Scanflow), and Ajith Gopakumar (Bosch).

Curated Meetings Fuel Business Momentum

Partners secured 8-10 one-to-one meetings each with high-potential SMEs, generating leads for follow-up collaborations—a standout feature accelerating Industry 4.0 adoption.

Gratitude to partners Tally Solutions Pvt Ltd, Gadgeon Systems Inc., NTT DATA, Bavis Technologies Private Limited , Quoqo Technologies, Arche Global, Scanflow and Nuventure Connect, media partner INDUSTRY 4.0 Technology E-Magazine; network partner F6S and knowledge partner Aspire Consulting.

Delegates travelled from Kongu region (Coimbatore, Karur, Tirupur, Erode, Salem). Many turned up from Kerala, and Chennai, braving distances to seize this insightful knowledge platform.

Forge Ahead: Kochi, Hyderabad, Rajkot Next

Coimbatore’s SMEs, Your legacy as India’s manufacturing heart demands digital boldness, adapt IIoT, AI, robotics now to dominate tomorrow’s factories, outpace rivals, and script a renaissance that echoes nationwide.

Join us at the roadshow in Kochi, Hyderabad, Rajkot—transform or trailblaze!

Proud Winners Announced

• Rural Income Generation: ANUTTAMA PRODUCTS PRIVATE LIMITED (Karnataka)
• Best Agri Based Business: ILAAGRI SERVICES PRIVATE LIMITED (Telangana)
• Women Employment: AYURAROGYA SAUKHYAM FOUNDATION (Kerala)

These trailblazers excelled in social impact, local employment, revenue growth, and innovation – core criteria of the awards.

The Grand Ceremony

Awards will be presented by the Amara Raja Group Founder during the 40th Foundation Day on December 20, 2025, at 9:00 AM at Amara Raja Auditorium, Head Office, Renigunta–Cuddapah Road, Karakambadi, Tirupati.

About Amara Raja Group

Started in 1985 in rural Andhra Pradesh, Amara Raja Group has grown into a USD 2 billion powerhouse with over 21,000 employees, championing social responsibility and “A Better Way for a Better Tomorrow”.

Every nominee inspired us with job creation and community transformation. Non-winners: Gear up for the 4th edition next year – ₹3 lakh prizes, year-long CXO mentorship in business, finance, supply chain, and HR await.

Congratulations to the winners! Join the movement: Amara Raja Better Way Awards

The Future Factory Forum, Coimbatore is set to take place on 11 December 2025 at The Residency Towers, bringing together leading experts in Industry 4.0, Automation, IoT, AI and Robotics to help SME manufacturers in the region make a decisive shift towards smart, digital factories. With an exceptional line-up of practitioners, technology leaders and manufacturing champions, this forum is designed as a game-changing platform for SME owners, plant heads and decision makers in and around Coimbatore.

Coimbatore’s Manufacturing Legacy

Often called the “Manchester of South India”, Coimbatore has a rich manufacturing legacy rooted in its early 19th century textile boom, supported by abundant cotton, favourable climate and strong trading networks. Over time, the city has evolved into a diversified industrial powerhouse with thousands of MSMEs in textiles, engineering, automotive components, pumps, motors and precision manufacturing, built on decades of entrepreneurial spirit and traditional, relationship-driven business practices.

For years, many of these enterprises have relied on conventional methods, manual planning, paper-based processes, legacy machines and informal decision-making, while still competing globally on quality and reliability. Today, with intense competition, margin pressure and rising customer expectations, Coimbatore’s SMEs stand at a critical inflection point where embracing digital technologies is no longer optional but essential for sustainable growth.

Why The Future Factory Forum now

The Future Factory Forum Coimbatore is built specifically to address this turning point by demystifying Industry 4.0 and showing how SMEs can adopt digital tools in a practical, phased and affordable manner. Sessions will focus on real-world use cases such as AI in manufacturing, production scheduling, IIoT-enabled smart factories, systems thinking for scaling SMEs, and low-cost automation strategies tailored for Indian manufacturing.

Coimbatore’s ecosystem, strong chambers, supplier networks and technical talent, makes it ideally placed to lead India’s next wave of digitally enabled manufacturing, provided SMEs act decisively and early. This forum aims to convert awareness into action, helping participants move from discussion to actual implementation of solutions that improve productivity, quality, visibility and profitability.

Who Should Attend

The event is a must-attend for:

• SME manufacturing owners, promoters and managing directors looking to modernise their plants and scale sustainably.
• COOs, plant heads, production managers, IT and digital transformation leaders seeking concrete frameworks and technology roadmaps for Industry 4.0 adoption.

Participants will also benefit from networking with technology providers, consultants, and peer manufacturers, as well as exploring the on-site Tech Expo and one-on-one meetings scheduled alongside the forum. Seats are limited, and those who move first on digital transformation will gain a significant competitive edge in Coimbatore’s rapidly evolving manufacturing landscape.

Key Speakers and Moderators

The Coimbatore edition features a high-impact line-up of speakers and panelists representing leading organisations in manufacturing, technology and business excellence.

Plenary and expert sessions

• Dr. O. A. Balasubramaniam, Director – IT, @Roots Group of Companies
• Sherry Thomas, Director – IoT Solutions, Gadgeon Systems Inc.
• Krunal Patel (કૃણાલ પટેલ), Managing Director, NTT Data Business Solutions Pvt. Ltd.
• Dojo Jose, Founder, Aspire Aeonian LLP and Publisher, Small Enterprise India
• Senthil Kumar R, Head – Industry & Corporate Connect, MeitY NASSCOM CoE – IoT & AI
• sanjay kondaas, Managing Director, Kondaas Automation Pvt. Ltd.
• Shanmukha CG, AGM – Product Excellence, Tally Solutions Pvt. Ltd.
• Rahul K, Chief Technology Officer, Nuventure Connect
• Dr. Raveendran N, Vice President – Enterprise Wide Solutions (CIO), Sakthi Finance Ltd. / ABT Industries Ltd.
• Tapasya Ravishankar, Co-Founder, Aspire Aeonian LLP, Small Enterprise India

Panel Discussion 1 – “Digitise or Disappear: The Urgent Need for Digital Transformation in Indian SME Manufacturing”

Moderator: Mohamad Ashiq, Executive Director, Arche Global.

Panelists include:

• Sherry Thomas, Director – IoT Solutions, Gadgeon Systems Inc
• Sujith Muraleedharan – Digital Transformation, L.G. Balakrishnan & Bros.
• Venkatesan Narayanasamy, Head – IT, LMW Limited.
• Shanmukha CG, AGM – Product Excellence, Tally Solutions Pvt. Ltd.
• Dr. Eswaramurthi K, General Manager – Business Excellence, Premier Fine Linens.

Panel Discussion 2 – “Future-Proofing Indian Manufacturing: What Skills, Tools & Strategies Will Define SME Growth?”

Moderator: Sherry Thomas, Director – IoT Solutions, Gadgeon Systems Inc.

Panelists include:

• Jibin Dev, Sales Team Lead, Quoqo Technologies Pvt. Ltd.
• Balaji V Bavis, Founder, BAVIS Technologies Pvt. Ltd.
• Jayakumar Radhakrishnan, CEO, Scanflow
• Ajith Gopakumar, Director – HMI Solutions (MS/EHM-PD2), Bosch Global Software Technologies Pvt. Ltd.

SME manufacturing heads, owners and decision makers in the Coimbatore region are strongly encouraged to block their calendars for 11 December at The Residency Towers, Coimbatore and leverage this unique opportunity to learn from experts and begin implementing Industry 4.0 solutions in their own factories.

Register Now (FREE For SME Manufacturing – Owners, IT Heads, Operations Head, Plant heads): https://forms.gle/BsngAAsZ5Bwib3T56

Watch Promo Video: https://youtube.com/shorts/ovjl92D0ybw?feature=share

Sponsors & Partners

The Future Factory Forum is organised by Small Enterprise India, India’s leading MSME knowledge-sharing platform, and is proudly supported by NASSCOM CoE – IoT & AI. A big thanks to the digital transformation partners and sponsors— Tally Solutions, Gadgeon Systems Inc., NTT Data Business Solutions, BAVIS Technologies, Scanflow, Nuventure Connect, Quoqo Technologies and Arche Global—whose commitment to enabling Industry 4.0 for SMEs is powering this transformative initiative.

Register Now (FREE For SME Manufacturing – Owners, IT Heads, Operations Head, Plant heads): https://forms.gle/BsngAAsZ5Bwib3T56

This captivating interview, conducted by Small Enterprise India, unveils the passion, struggles, and successes behind Corrazone’s rise, inviting readers to witness an inspiring story of courage, empowerment, and boundless possibility.

Q. What were some of the initial struggles you faced while establishing Corrazone, and how did you overcome them to build a thriving co-working space?

Establishing Corrazone was a journey lined with both challenges and opportunities for growth. The biggest hurdle was shifting the region’s mindset from rigid, traditional offices to a vibrant, community-driven co-working space. Creating awareness for this new culture meant overcoming skepticism, managing funding constraints, and cultivating trust among entrepreneurs wary of shared ecosystems. What truly set us apart was our unwavering consistency and the values we stood by: integrity, genuine support, and a focus on real results rather than just physical space. Every initial struggle inspired us to build deeper connections, offer tailored guidance, and foster collaborations that proved the power of a united community. Over the years, Corrazone has blossomed into a name that represents not just business growth, but personal transformation and ethical entrepreneurship. The journey taught us that building trust and putting our members first turns obstacles into stepping stones, making Corrazone a space where both dreams and businesses thrive with meaning and purpose.

Q. Corrazone is known as an eco-friendly coworking space. Could you share the inspiration behind this commitment to sustainability and how you implemented eco-friendly practices in your workspace?

Sustainability isn’t just a part of Corrazone’s business model, it’s the heartbeat of our mission. From day one, we envisioned a workspace where responsible entrepreneurship and environmental stewardship walk hand in hand, inspiring every founder and freelancer who steps through our doors. By embracing natural lighting, implementing waste segregation, and designing energy-efficient spaces, we set out to prove that business growth need not come at the cost of our planet. Even our minimalist interiors celebrate a balance between professionalism and nature, reminding everyone that innovation thrives best in harmony with green values. This commitment was born from a deep belief that true progress is sustainable progress. When entrepreneurs operate in an eco-conscious and inspiring environment, every idea carries the scent of responsibility. At Corrazone, we hope to light a torch for others in the industry, proving that the future belongs to businesses that honor both their economic and environmental obligations, shaping a legacy where success means preserving the earth for generations to come.

Q. How have you cultivated a supportive and collaborative community at Corrazone that makes startups and freelancers feel like they truly belong?

At Corrazone, community isn’t an afterthought, it’s the very foundation of our space. Our vision was never to just rent desks, but to cultivate a dynamic growth circle where every member feels genuinely seen and valued. Through frequent interactions, curated collaboration meets, impactful mentorship sessions, and peer-driven learning, we have built an ecosystem where startups and freelancers share not only resources but also dreams. This sense of belonging transforms our spaces from mere offices into platforms for shared success and emotional connections. We celebrate every entrepreneurial milestone together, and the openness within our community inspires creativity, endurance, and resilience. By encouraging honest conversation, empathy, and mutual support, we have turned Corrazone into a nurturing environment where innovators never feel alone on their journey. This collaborative spirit ensures that every member finds guidance and encouragement at every step, making Corrazone a place where businesses flourish because the individuals behind them feel understood, empowered, and truly at home.

Q. Can you describe your vision for the future of Corrazone, especially in terms of expansion, services, and the startup ecosystem you hope to foster?

Corrazone’s future radiates with hope and possibility. Our vision transcends boundaries: we aim to build a global network of inclusive, sustainable, and collaborative workspaces that spark creativity and opportunity everywhere. Expansion plans focus on tier-2 and rural regions, places where dreams and talent often go unseen. Through digital mentorship, integrated incubation, and seamless access to funding, we hope to empower entrepreneurs from every corner of the country, ensuring that geographic barriers never block potential. Our goal is to be more than a workspace; we want to become a hub where ideas receive validation, resources, and the encouragement to scale. Ultimately, Corrazone aspires to be both a beacon and a bridge, connecting communities, amplifying diverse voices, and fostering impactful collaborations across India and beyond. By nurturing startups from the grassroots to global stages, our vision is to leave an indelible mark on the entrepreneurial landscape, championing founders and innovators who will shape the future with compassion and courage.

Q. Women entrepreneurs are a key focus at Corrazone. What initiatives have you put in place to encourage and empower women to take leadership roles in startups?

Empowering women is a living promise at Corrazone. We’ve reimagined our co-working space as a sanctuary where women entrepreneurs can dream big and lead boldly. Through our “CORRAZONE WITH SHE” initiative, we offer mentorship, flexible work schedules, and customized networking that address unique challenges faced by women. Our work culture is rooted in gender neutrality and supports female leadership by connecting them with investors who truly value inclusivity. Peer recognition and encouragement are cornerstones of our approach, ensuring women are celebrated as trailblazers, not just participants. Every woman who steps into Corrazone finds herself in an environment built for her aspirations, safety, and growth. By breaking barriers and paving pathways, Corrazone becomes a launchpad for women to transform ideas into impact, amplifying their voices in boardrooms and beyond. Here, women don’t just join teams—they drive them, making leadership not a distant dream, but an everyday reality. For us, real inclusion means every woman becomes a decision-maker.

Q. Corrazone offers flexible working hours, especially to support women entrepreneurs working late into the night. How do you think this flexibility impacts their productivity and peace of mind?

Flexibility at Corrazone is the key to meaningful empowerment, especially for women entrepreneurs. We recognize that many women juggle multiple roles, and rigid office hours should never stand in the way of their creativity or success. By ensuring our co-working space remains accessible and safe even at night, we enable women to work during their natural peak hours and manage family commitments without compromise. Our exclusive night walk for women entrepreneurs helped raise awareness about security and confidence after hours. This flexibility isn’t just about adjusting schedules, it’s about fostering peace of mind, reducing burnout, and nurturing innovation that thrives beyond constraints. Women in Corrazone can focus on creation, not limitations, knowing their workspace adapts to their unique rhythms. Such freedom boosts productivity, strengthens self-assurance, and inspires new solutions. At Corrazone, flexible hours are not a privilege—they are a commitment to helping every woman harness her full potential, chart her own course, and lead with confidence.

Q. Many describe you as having a “motherly touch” when it comes to understanding and supporting startups. How do you personally connect with and mentor these entrepreneurs?

Leadership at Corrazone is deeply rooted in empathy and emotional intelligence. Connecting with and mentoring startups is more than a professional task—it’s a personal calling. Like nurturing a child, every founder’s journey is met with attentive listening, heartfelt understanding, and strategic support. This “motherly touch” is what makes Corrazone truly distinctive; it’s about creating a space where entrepreneurs feel emotionally safe and are emboldened to take risks and grow fearlessly. By listening more than speaking, and addressing needs before offering solutions, the bond of trust strengthens. When founders feel valued and supported, their ideas flourish without fear or hesitation. For me, mentoring is about fueling both the mind and the spirit—because business success is born from emotional well-being. At Corrazone, every interaction is designed to uplift, inspire, and reassure, so every entrepreneur finds not just a mentor, but a steadfast ally on their path to greatness.

Q. What kinds of complimentary support and incubation services do you offer startups at Corrazone, and how do these resources help new businesses flourish?

Corrazone’s dedication to startups is reflected in our comprehensive support and incubation services. We offer early-stage mentorship, help with business registration, vital investor connects, and strategic growth sessions, all integral to every entrepreneur’s journey. Marketing guidance, expert consultation, and collaboration avenues enable startups to refine business models and reach new markets. These resources remove the isolation and uncertainty new founders often experience, providing not just technical advice, but also moral support and inspiration. By connecting startups with mentors, peers, and sector specialists, Corrazone becomes a dynamic launchpad where learning and growth go hand-in-hand. This hands-on approach ensures businesses don’t merely get started; they are equipped to sustain and thrive amid challenges. Success at Corrazone means every founder receives the guidance, encouragement, and network required to turn early-stage ideas into lasting impact, making our commitment more than just a promise—it’s a proven legacy that continues to foster innovation and resilience.

Q. Could you share a memorable success story of a woman-led startup or a community event at Corrazone that exemplifies your mission?

The real magic of Corrazone lives in the stories written by our community. I’ll never forget the young entrepreneur who began with a handful of team members and, through sheer grit and the support of our flexible systems and guidance, grew his company to over 450 employees within a year. Another inspirational tale is of a woman who launched her venture with less than ₹10,000. With Corrazone’s nurturing environment and unwavering encouragement, she transformed her passion into an international business. Our monthly community meetings have become legendary, where women and men alike share their triumphs and struggles, building bonds strong enough to spark collaborations and lifelong friendships. These gatherings reinforce our mission – that success is not measured in awards, but in the lives uplifted and dreams realized. Each story is a testament to the power of community, and they define Corrazone’s essence more than any statistics ever could. Our space is proof that with heart, support, and belief, anything is possible.

Q. Looking beyond Corrazone, how do you see your role as a leader impacting the broader entrepreneurial ecosystem in Kochi and Kerala?

Corrazone’s impact is woven into the larger tapestry of entrepreneurship across Kochi and Kerala. My journey wouldn’t be possible without the unwavering support of my husband Abdul Nasar, whose vision guides our steps. We aspire to see Kerala emerge as a model for inclusive and compassionate entrepreneurship. By fostering partnerships, mentoring youth, championing women-led initiatives, and building bridges between rural and urban businesses, our efforts extend far beyond Corrazone’s walls. Leadership, for me, is not about achieving personal milestones; it’s about multiplying opportunities, sharing knowledge, and unlocking the potential of others. Kochi is home to a thriving startup ecosystem, and contributing to its growth and energy fills me with immense pride. Through compassion, conviction, and collaboration, Corrazone inspires the next generation of founders to dream bigger, act responsibly, and make lasting contributions. Our ongoing journey is a reminder that true entrepreneurial success is measured in the meaningful change it brings to lives and communities.

In an exclusive interview with Small Enterprise India, Dr. Rugmani shares her inspiring journey, the vision behind the innovative home-based healthcare initiative, and how her team is transforming patient care in Kerala and beyond.

Let’s delve into the conversation that highlights the challenges, solutions, and future plans of Qurocare’s mission to make healthcare accessible and compassionate.

Q. What inspired you to start Qurocare and focus on home-based healthcare services in Trivandrum?

The idea behind Qurocare was born from a simple thought that healthcare should be part of everyday life. For this to happen, care must be accessible, convenient, and available on demand. That is what led us to build a home healthcare service, bringing doctors, nurses, and wellness support directly to where people need it most – their homes. In our experience, the healthcare system, especially at the primary level, is often fragmented and unorganised. We identified a significant gap in the home healthcare segment where patients struggle to find reliable homecare services, consistent pricing, and continuity in their medical treatments and follow-ups. We wanted to bring the concept of an organized healthcare ecosystem that seamlessly connects clinic-based care with home healthcare through a technology-enabled, fully digital platform. In Kerala, where nearly 20% of the population is elderly, there is a clear and growing need for accessible home-based services. Many senior citizens prefer receiving healthcare at home, whether it is for regular check-ups, nursing support, or post-hospitalisation recovery within the comfort and safety of familiar surroundings. At the same time, bedridden patients and working professionals with time constraints require convenient, trustworthy, and professional medical assistance at their doorstep. Qurocare was built to meet these evolving needs by combining the best of technology and compassionate care. Our inspiration continues to be the belief that healthcare should be convenient and accessible, ensuring everyday health and everyday care.

Q. How did your non-medical background and personal experiences influence the creation of Qurocare’s patient-centric approach?

As a scientist turned entrepreneur, my professional journey has always centered around identifying real-world problems and designing practical, evidence-based solutions. While I do not come from a clinical background, my experience in partnerships, research, and collaboration helped me view healthcare from a systems and accessibility perspective rather than purely a medical one. This allowed us to design Qurocare as an ecosystem that integrates technology, human touch, and process efficiency to make healthcare truly patient-centric. Our founding team brings diverse expertise – Vysakh Akhila Raghavan, our Chief Executive Officer, leads business strategy and scaling; Dr.Nithin Adithya Jaladharan, Chief of Clinical Operations, who is also a medical doctor, oversees quality and clinical standards; and I focus on outreach and growth, building collaborations that ensure the services we design are grounded in real community needs. This multidisciplinary foundation allows Qurocare to grow beyond the traditional “doctor-centric” model into a collaborative, patient-centric healthcare platform. On a personal level, witnessing elderly family members struggle to access timely homecare and post-hospital support made me deeply aware of the gaps in continuity of care. Those experiences shaped our belief that healthcare should be accessible, organised, and convenient – not reactive, but preventive and coordinated. At Qurocare, every process from appointment scheduling to follow-ups is designed with the patient’s comfort, clarity, and continuity in mind, reflecting both our professional expertise and personal commitment to better everyday healthcare.

Q. Qurocare has become known for its personalised care and flexible health solutions. What do you consider the company’s core philosophy or mission?

We believe that true health is about caring for both the mind and body, not just managing disease. Our guiding thought is simple: “Everyday Health, Everyday Care” – When care begins early through regular monitoring, exercise, lifestyle management, flexible consultations, and timely diagnosis, we can prevent conditions from becoming critical later. Qurocare aims to make healthcare proactive, accessible, and part of everyday living, rather than a response to illness.

Q. Could you explain the range of services Qurocare offers – from home doctor visits to QuroFit FLEX – and how these cater to today’s busy or elderly patients?

Qurocare provides a complete range of home-based healthcare services, designed for the needs of today’s busy professionals, elderly individuals, and bedridden patients. Our services include doctor consultations, nursing care (such as wound dressing, IM/IV injections), blood tests, AI-enabled ECG, and procedures like Ryle’s and catheter tube management for those who are bedridden. The process is simple – users can call us or book digitally, share their location, and our medical team reaches the site at the scheduled time. Reports are shared digitally, and our team ensures follow-up and continuity of care through our coordinated digital system. For preventive and lifestyle health, we offer health check-ups for individuals who want to track and maintain their wellbeing proactively. Physiotherapy is one of the core pillars of Qurocare’s service, designed to support both elderly individuals and busy professionals.

QuroFit operates through two verticals:

1. QuroFit therapy focuses on rehabilitation and clinical physiotherapy for individuals with mobility issues, pain, injuries, or post-surgical recovery needs.
2. QuroFit Flex our in-house curated physiotherapist-led exercise program for active lifestyle management, aimed at healthy adults and elderly individuals seeking to prevent lifestyle-related problems. FLEX sessions include vital monitoring, pain prevention, strength training, cardio, and neuro-conditioning, delivered in apartments, offices, and community spaces – individually or in groups.

Q. What were some of the key challenges you faced while setting up a hybrid model combining in-clinic and at-home healthcare, and how did your team overcome them?

One of the biggest challenges we faced was awareness. In India, people are used to visiting a hospital or clinic for any kind of healthcare need. Although homecare services exist, the concept of organized, professional home healthcare is still relatively new. Our first task was to educate the public to help them understand that a large portion of healthcare, including primary, preventive, and even certain curative services, can safely and effectively be delivered at home. We addressed this through consistent social media engagement, awareness classes, sharing real examples, free home visits, and communicating how Qurocare brings clinic-quality care to the patient’s doorstep. The second major challenge was managing a hybrid model—operating both a physical clinic and a homecare network.

A clinic is cost-intensive but provides trust and credibility, while homecare is scalable yet less visible. We realised that homecare alone, without a physical base, would lack the assurance patients seek in healthcare. So, we built a clinic-driven brand foundation supported by technology for home healthcare delivery. Globally, similar models exist. For instance, companies like Optum (UnitedHealth Group) in the U.S. have built integrated home-based care systems. In India, while large hospital groups like Apollo offer home health, there isn’t yet a dedicated, branded organisation focused exclusively on standardized and process-driven home healthcare. We aim for Qurocare to fill that gap – to become a trusted, premium home healthcare brand built on quality, technology, and compassionate care.

Q. Kerala’s healthcare system is often praised for its quality, yet accessibility in smaller towns and rural areas remains a concern. Are you planning to expand Qurocare’s services to tier 2 and tier 3 cities across the state?

Yes. Our mission is to make quality home healthcare accessible across Kerala, not just in major cities. After successfully establishing standard operating procedures in Thiruvananthapuram, we plan to expand to other tier 2 and tier 3 cities/towns where access to reliable, professional home-based care is still limited. By leveraging technology and training local medical professionals, we aim to build a centralised network that delivers trusted Qurocare services even in smaller communities.

Our goal is to make quality home healthcare accessible across Kerala and eventually scale the model pan-India.

Q. How does Qurocare ensure the quality, hygiene, and reliability of at-home procedures like IV drips, injections, and nursing care?

At Qurocare, patient safety and clinical quality are our highest priorities. We ensure that every at-home procedure—from IV injections to wound care and catheter changes – follows strict medical protocols and hygiene standards equivalent to those in a clinical setting. All our nursing staff and doctors are verified, licensed professionals, trained in aseptic techniques and patient communication. Every procedure is performed using sterile, single-use medical consumables, and all instruments are disinfected or disposed of according to bio-medical waste management guidelines. Our services are continuously monitored through digital documentation and quality audits overseen by our Chief of Clinical Operations, Dr. Nithin Adithya Jaladharan, who ensures adherence to medical standards. Each visit is recorded in our clinic management software, enabling transparent tracking, digital prescriptions, and follow-ups. Through this integrated system of qualified and trained medical professionals, digital oversight, and strict hygiene protocols, Qurocare ensures every patient receives safe, reliable, and hospital-quality care right at home.

Q. The healthcare service space is highly competitive, with many startups and hospitals entering home care. How is Qurocare differentiating itself in this evolving market?

The demand for organised home healthcare is rapidly increasing, driven by Kerala’s ageing population, a busy working class, and the need for convenient, high-quality care at home. While hospitals often treat homecare as an extension of their services and many standalone providers remain unorganised, Qurocare differentiates itself through three core strengths:

1. Premium, process-driven care: Qurocare offers a standardised, technology-enabled ecosystem that combines digital coordination, clinical quality, and transparent processes delivering hospital grade reliability at home.
2. “Nurse on Wheels” initiative: A first-of-its-kind model in India under our Work in India program. In this approach, each home healthcare unit is led by a trained staff nurse, equipped with driving skills, digital tools, and clinical expertise, and supported by doctors. This model redefines the role of nurses from employees to leaders and managers of mobile healthcare units, ensuring accountability, scalability, and continuity of care. It also addresses India’s pressing challenge of nurse migration by creating aspirational, leadership-oriented roles within the country. By empowering nurses, integrating technology, and ensuring quality through our clinic-led system, Qurocare offers a standardised, scalable, and patient-centric alternative to fragmented homecare services, setting new benchmarks in premium, reliable, and technology-enabled home healthcare.
3. Technology integration and partnerships: Qurocare also serves as a bridge between health tech innovators and the public. We collaborate with technology partners to bring innovative digital health tools directly into homes, such as our recent MoU with Tussis Sp. z o.o., a Poland-based healthtech company behind CoughApp,a solution that enables advanced respiratory health tracking and monitoring.

Q. What are your future plans for scaling Qurocare – in terms of technology, workforce, or geographic reach across India?

Qurocare is now in its early revenue phase, with one physical clinic, two home healthcare units, and a team of 18 operating in Thiruvananthapuram. In the short term, we plan to expand to a team of 30 with six Qurocare EV home healthcare units serving across the city. The next phase focuses on scaling operations to key districts across Kerala including Ernakulam, Kottayam, Thrissur, and Kozhikode before expanding pan-India in a phased manner. On the technology front, Qurocare is building a robust digital backbone to address the major gaps in traditional homecare such as poor coordination, inconsistent pricing, and lack of medical record continuity. The upcoming patient dashboard will provide users with access to digital reports, follow-ups, and health alerts, making care continuous and transparent. In terms of workforce, our focus is on empowering and retaining nurses in India by offering better income opportunities, leadership roles, and mobility through our “Nurse on Wheels” model. With India’s ageing population and growing demand for skilled home healthcare professionals, we aim to build a scalable and sustainable ecosystem that creates meaningful employment while delivering trusted, technology-driven healthcare at home. We are currently seeking strategic investments to strengthen this expansion and technology development journey.

Q. Finally, what message would you like to share with our readers who are passionate about healthcare innovation and holistic wellness?

At Qurocare, we believe in the principle of “Everyday Health, Everyday Care”. Health shouldn’t be an afterthought; it should be a daily priority. By focusing on preventive care today, we can avoid the burden of critical care tomorrow.

Innovation in healthcare is not just about technology. It is about creating systems that make care accessible and convenient, where technology serves as the best enabler to make that possible.

The fundraise comes at a pivotal moment as India prepares to operationalise the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act, a landmark law that will redefine how organisations collect, store, and use personal data. Redacto aims to help enterprises adapt to this new regulatory environment by turning privacy compliance into a strategic advantage built on trust and transparency.

Founded in 2025 by Shashank K. and Amit K. enables enterprises to automate privacy compliance, govern sensitive data, and enforce third party accountability through AI-powered automation. It counts several of India’s leading payment companies and NBFCs among its customers. The platform has already attracted strong interest from leading banks, fintechs, and insurance companies that are preparing for DPDP readiness and seeking scalable solutions that align with global standards such as GDPR and CCPA.

“The DPDP Act marks the beginning of a privacy-first era for Indian enterprises,” said Shashank Karincheti, Co-Founder & Chief Product Officer (CPO), Redacto. “Our goal is to make privacy practical, continuous, and scalable. Redacto is built to turn compliance into confidence and transform how organisations approach sensitive data responsibility.”

“AI isn’t just changing business—it’s redefining it. Data privacy architecture must evolve at the same pace,” said Amit Kumar, Co-Founder and CEO of Redacto. “As a full-stack data privacy company, our platform delivers intelligent, end-to-end data governance through AI-first automation, enabling enterprises to innovate without bearing the burden of compliance.”

Karthik Prabhakar, Managing Partner at PeerCapital, said, “Data in today’s digital world is exploding and residing in nooks and corners of enterprises. The critical need for Personal data protection and privacy has never been this acute. Redacto is positioned right at the heart of this inflection point. The team’s domain expertise in cybersecurity and enterprise technology gives them a unique edge in building scalable privacy infrastructure for the next decade.”

Redacto’s suite of AI-powered products brings together key privacy functions such as data discovery, consent management, vendor risk assessment, breach response, and regulatory reporting into one intelligent, unified system. Its modules include the Redacto Privacy Engine for automated data mapping and classification, ConsentFlow for orchestrating user permissions, VendorShield for third-party risk monitoring, and TrustCentre for transparent compliance sharing. Together, these products enable enterprises to maintain a continuous, real-time view of their privacy posture while reducing operational effort and cost.