Business models for technology in the developing world: The role of non-governmental organizations

The market at the "bottom of the pyramid" represents an important business opportunity, provided that managers understand the challenges of reaching this huge market segment. The difficulties in designing and introducing new products and technologies are generally attributed to the lack of understanding of the local environment in these countries. However, accessing the potential market in the developing world also requires an appropriate business model. Non-governmental organizations are uniquely positioned to develop some of the most innovative and successful business models in the developing world. For-profit organizations would do well to engage with NGOs in order to create effective business models to market technologies in the developing world.