Now, more than ever, digital technologies are helping entrepreneurs across the world overcome restrictions on face-to-face business.

In places such as India and Indonesia, where COVID-19 restrictions have limited or completely shut down businesses which sell directly to customers, we’ve seen how effective digital tools can be.

Whether turning from storefront to online sales, or promoting services or sales via WhatsApp, or taking orders for contactless delivery, many are keeping their businesses alive using digital technology. Throughout the pandemic, many of Opportunity's clients in Indonesia have found innovative ways to deal with the challenges of COVID-19.

“I believe that the digital changes we are seeing are truly opening up the world in ways we couldn't possibly imagine,” says Andrew Jamieson, Opportunity International Australia Board member.

Andy Jamieson meets with Health Leaders in India in 2018.

“In the developing world, access to digital marketplaces has increased the ability for clients to reach new suppliers when sourcing goods, shifting supply chains and expanding pricing options. During the pandemic, I've heard stories where clients are altering their sales channels, from running a shop front to changing to sell direct via WhatsApp messaging from clients coupled with contactless delivery. Taking the product to the customers, on-demand! It is amazing to think how digitally enabled some clients’ businesses can be in cost-effective and highly scalable ways,” says Andy.

I've been super impressed by the entrepreneurs I've met in the developing world.”

“They are working hard at all hours of the day and night to make ends meet. Their ability to adapt products to changing market needs, manage stock and inventory levels (driven by cash flow management) and the relentless focus on selling. The leverage they can achieve through a small loan and the value they can extract viaaccess to capital is impressive. In addition, these entrepreneurs go to great lengthsto meet their clients wants and needs. There is much I have learnt about how to hustle and appreciate and leverage capital.”

To help us reach more entrepreneurs in Asia through small loans and other critical interventions, please consider supporting our India COVID-19 appeal.