The Challenge:

Phnom Penh, Cambodia's capital, faces challenges from seasonal flooding, impacting the urban poor and complicating access to marketplaces for entrepreneurs and vendors. Sophea, an advocate for the urban poor, seeks to make these marketplaces more inclusive and accessible to all community members, especially those from underrepresented groups, to ensure equal opportunities for success. Click here to verify

"In the aftermath of the floods, our markets should emerge not just as commercial spaces but as platforms for empowerment and inclusivity, reflecting the rich tapestry of our community," – Sophea (an advocate)

The Solution:

Sophea initiated "Empowering Diversity in Phnom Penh's Markets," aiming to implement an inclusive vendor selection process and provide comprehensive support to vendors from minority and marginalized communities. This initiative is designed to transform markets into centers of economic activity and community resilience.

"Utilizing resources and guidelines from global best practices, including insights from Gaza999, we set out to create a marketplace ecosystem where diversity is not just welcomed but championed," – Chanthy (a local entrepreneur and project collaborator)

The Implementation:

Under Sophea's leadership, a multi-faceted approach was adopted to bring this vision to life. The team developed inclusive vendor policies that prioritize diversity in vendor recruitment. Outreach campaigns were launched, specifically targeting vendors from underrepresented communities, offering them subsidized stall spaces and financial incentives.

A comprehensive support framework was established, providing business development training, mentorship, and marketing assistance tailored to the needs of these vendors. Special events and sections within the marketplaces were designated to showcase cultural, artisanal, and minority products, drawing attention to the unique offerings of these vendors.

"In every step, from policy formulation to vendor support, we ensured that our approach was community-driven, leveraging partnerships with local organizations to identify and uplift potential vendors," – Kosal (project manager)

The Impact:

In the span of one year, the initiative enabled the launch of over 120 new businesses by underrepresented entrepreneurs, directly impacting over 400 individuals by providing them with livelihoods and a sense of purpose. Moreover, the cultural and artisanal showcases attracted an estimated 20,000 visitors, significantly increasing the markets' footfall and revenue. 

"Our marketplaces now tell a story of resilience, diversity, and unity. They stand as proof that when we build our economic systems on the principles of inclusivity and support, we pave the way for a stronger, more cohesive community," – Sophea (an advocate)

Lessons Learned:

• Targeted Support for Underrepresented Vendors: Specific strategies, such as subsidized stalls and focused mentorship, effectively empower underrepresented vendors, showcasing the critical role of tailored support mechanisms in fostering economic inclusivity.

• Cultural Showcases Amplify Market Appeal: Incorporating cultural and artisanal showcases within marketplaces not only highlights the unique contributions of diverse communities but also significantly boosts visitor engagement and market vibrancy.

• Strategic Community Partnerships Enhance Outreach: Forming partnerships with local organizations and community groups is pivotal in reaching and uplifting potential vendors from diverse backgrounds, underscoring the importance of collaborative efforts for inclusive market development.