On 17th October 2018, researchers from the universities of Oxford and Birmingham along with partner organizations commenced the first stages of the ESRC-funded Inclusive Digital Model (IDMODEL) project. Led by Professor Xiaolan Fu, Professor of Technology and International Development at ODID and TMCD Director and Professor Pervez Ghauri, Professor of International Business at the Department of Strategy and International Business at the University of Birmingham, the project will research into enabling inclusive development and economic empowerment through digital technology.

This project seeks to understand, develop and empirically test digital technology-based business models which can facilitate economic activities for excluded or vulnerable demographic groups in developing countries. Adaptable and contextualized business models which can bridge technological capabilities with local socioeconomic conditions can greatly foster inclusive growth through income and job creation for the poor.

The IDMODEL project is now commencing preparations for fieldwork and surveys in two countries, China and Bangladesh. Partner institutions and organisations working on this project include Kuaishou, Microsoft Bangladesh, and the University of International Business and Economics. Interdisciplinary researchers from fields of technology, development studies and responsible business studies will conduct qualitative field research and case studies of digital business platforms in both countries to understand the mechanisms and elements within an inclusive digital business model.

Find out more about the IDMODEL Project here.