Abstract

The world's urban population is growing faster than its total population, especially in the developing world. The diffusion of information and communication technologies (ICTs), notably the mobile telephone, seems to be growing apace. There are several accounts of urban micro entrepreneurs using ICTs to broaden their reach, communicate more efficiently and increase their earning potential. However, there have been few systematic studies examining the use of ICTs in micro enterprises and their role in reducing poverty.

In this project, researchers will examine the use of ICTs (mobile phones, personal computers, cybercafés) in micro enterprises (defined as enterprises with at least one hired worker) in the sprawling urban setting of Mumbai, India. They will then investigate the positive and negative effects of the phenomenon on poverty using monetary-, capability- and social exclusion-based indicators. The findings are expected to inform the discussion on how ICTs can help micro entrepreneurs raise local standards of living.

Recipient Institution(s)