Markaaz joins the Aspen Network of Development Entrepreneurs

The Aspen Network of Development Entrepreneurs (ANDE) is a global network of organizations that promote entrepreneurship in emerging markets. Members of ANDE provide financial, educational, and business support services to small and growing businesses (SGBs). ANDE believes SGBs are key to lifting countries out of poverty by creating jobs, stimulating long-term economic growth, and generating environmental and social benefits.

Since its launch in 2009 with 34 members, ANDE has grown to include more than 280 members operating in over 150 countries, with 7 regional chapters. ANDE supports “the missing middle” — small and growing businesses that drive growth in emerging markets and address critical social and environmental challenges.

We are proud to announce that Markaaz has joined the ranks of Mastercard, PayPal, FUNDES, and other esteemed organizations as a new member of the Aspen Network of Development Entrepreneurs. This marks a significant milestone for Markaaz in its mission to connect every small business on the planet and provide them with equal access to resources that foster economic growth.

ANDE members include a diverse mix of for-profit and not-for-profit organizations, such as investment funds, capacity development providers, research and academic institutions, development finance institutions, foundations, and corporations. Based in Washington, D.C., with offices in emerging markets, ANDE works to support members globally and locally, fostering ecosystems for entrepreneurial growth.

Markaaz is excited to collaborate with strategic partners, including FUNDES and TECHO — a nonprofit organization transforming slums into thriving communities across Latin America — to support small and growing businesses. Together with these partners, Markaaz is working on a pilot project in Latin America to introduce digital resources into communities and measure the economic and social impact of these efforts.

As a new member of ANDE, Markaaz has an ambitious agenda. The two-year-old scale-up aims to provide SGBs with access to digital tools and resources, including its proprietary Directory, and offer education through the Markaaz Foundation. These initiatives are designed to empower SGBs, helping them find their voice and thrive.

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