About US
The Informal Economy Index (IEI) is a data-driven initiative dedicated to empowering informal workers through insights, innovation, and inclusion. We work to make every worker visible, valued, and supported.
What We Do
Bridging the gap between India's informal economy and formal recognition through data, education, and community empowerment.
Building a Dashboard
The Informal Economy Index (IEI) surveys workers across India to measure their financial and social vulnerability. Each worker gets a personal IEI score, which suggests tailored solutions — from debt-relief and savings plans to access to government schemes. All scores feed into a district-level index, highlighting regional patterns and guiding policy reform where it’s needed most. In short, IEI connects data to dignity — turning insights into real action for India’s informal workforce.
Pilot Implementation
Our pilots across eight districts proved that data can drive dignity. In Punjab, 680+ workers opened their first bank accounts after debt-exit workshops, reducing average vulnerability by 60%. In Faridabad, 640+ workers obtained e-Shram cards, while Jaipur saw 580+ enrolments in key welfare schemes through our awareness and easy-enrolment campaigns. In Bhopal and Gwalior, we helped build an emergency fund of £950 for 30 families — stabilizing income volatility and reducing debt cycles by 45%. Each pilot strengthened the Index’s accuracy and trust with local communities, proving that the IEI model is both scalable and sustainable.
Pushing for Policy Reform
After identifying enrolment struggles caused by migration and documentation gaps, we are advocating for reforms to make government schemes more accessible and portable across states. Our data-backed policy recommendations aim to ensure equitable benefits for all informal workers.
Donation Drives
Conducted donation and emergency support drives to provide immediate relief to vulnerable families. These initiatives directly addressed debt, savings, and income stability challenges, strengthening community resilience and trust.