Artisan SOKO, developed by Get Ready Export and Powered by People (PBP), is more than an e-commerce site. It’s a digital marketplace empowering artisans—particularly women—to bring their unique creations to global markets.
The platform combines the cultural heritage and craftsmanship of East Africa with modern technology, creating a bridge between artisans and consumers seeking authentic, ethically-produced products.
What sets Artisan SOKO apart is its commitment to sustainable practices and community impact. The artisans rely on eco-friendly production methods, using locally sourced materials and minimizing waste. Each product on the platform reflects the artisans’ cultural heritage and craftsmanship, combining age-old techniques with contemporary design.
The majority of these artisans are women, many of whom use their earnings to support their families and communities. Artisan SOKO provides not only a platform for selling goods but also offers essential support to help artisans thrive. From training programs to financial resources, the platform equips artisans with the skills and tools needed to expand their businesses sustainably.
Artisan SOKO’s impact is amplified through strategic partnerships. TRANSFORM, a program led by Unilever and the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, supports Artisan SOKO’s goals by offering grant funding and business insights. This collaboration has enabled Artisan SOKO to scale quickly, helping artisans access broader markets while maintaining ethical and sustainable practices.
The Jiinue Growth Program, in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, provides financial and technical support to Micro, Small, and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs) in Kenya, particularly those led by women and young people.
Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA), Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI), and GROOTS Kenya comprise the eco-system partners in the program with a membership database of targeted program participants.
Grassroots Business Fund additionally provides access to finance roles in the program, along with 4G Capital and Powered by People, which offer loans and purchase order products. PBP plays a key role in delivering training and market access to help MSMEs and artisans scale sustainably.
“The partnership aims to support businesses in scaling and getting ready to absorb commercial capital working through the fund manager, Grassroots Business Fund, which is responsible for the delivery of the program and is supported by DT Global in program management,” Powered by People says in a media brief.
Through this initiative, Artisan SOKO artisans gain access to purchase ordEach product on the platform combines time-honored techniques with
modern design, offering buyers the chance to own an authentic piece of East African culture
while supporting artisans’ livelihoods.er financing and business mentorship, which helps them scale production without financial strain.
In collaboration with BFA Global, Artisan SOKO leverages technology to close the digital divide for artisans in underserved communities. BFA Global and PBP have introduced AI-generated digital profiles that improve the visibility of artisans’ work online, enhancing their sales potential in a competitive global market.
Artisan SOKO provides artisans with digital catalogs, market access, and continuous mentorship. These tools not only simplify the purchasing process for buyers but also enable artisans to present their products professionally. By making digital catalogs accessible, Artisan SOKO ensures that even small-scale artisans without prior online presence can effectively showcase their work to international buyers.
Through purchase order financing, artisans can produce in bulk to meet demand without facing financial constraints, a critical resource for small businesses often limited by cash flow issues. The platform’s emphasis on sustainability and social responsibility also aligns with the values of a growing segment of global consumers who prioritize ethical shopping choices.
Since its launch, Artisan SOKO has connected hundreds of artisans across East Africa with international buyers, helping them secure sustainable livelihoods and strengthen their communities. This initiative represents a movement toward inclusive economic growth, driven by East Africa’s vibrant cultural heritage and artisanal excellence.