Microsoft launches ecommerce platform ReWeave to bridge gap between artisans and buyers

While reviving traditional Indian art, ReWeave will be looking to support weavers increase their income and earn a sustainable livelihood.

As part of its Project ReWeave – a Microsoft Philanthropies initiative – the tech giant recently announced the launch of a brand new ecommerce platform called re-weave.in. The portal, designed especially for handloom weavers, will be aimed at bridging the gap between artisans and buyers online, by connecting them and in the process helping them to expand to newer customers and markets.

The new e-marketplace will also host signature collections created by the weaver communities, showcase traditional designs and products created from natural dyes. Asides from this, ReWeave will be looking to support weavers increase their income and earn a sustainable livelihood while reviving traditional Indian art.

“With the introduction of our new ecommerce platform, digital empowerment centres and the new design curriculum, the weavers will be able to build on the rich handloom heritage of India and also reach out to a wider customer base,” said Anil Bhansali, Managing Director, Microsoft India (R&D) about the initiative.

“ReWeave ties very well into Microsoft’s mission to empower every person and every organisation in the communities we work in by using Project Sangam- our Azure-based technology solution and expertise to democratise opportunities and bridge the digital divide,” Bhansali added.

In addition, Microsoft has also partnered up with National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) to curate a special curriculum in ‘CAD and Color for Handloom Weaving’ to provide digital training in handloom design.

Microsoft has already inaugurated two new digital empowerment centres in Rajoli and Choutuppal. With plans to expand to more weaver clusters, the company is looking to add to its roster with centres in Warangal and Siddipet clusters.

“Digital technology is changing lives of Indians across every section of society. Working with global technology leaders like Microsoft has enabled us to bring technology to the doorsteps of our large weaver communities in the remotest districts of Telangana. These initiatives like ecommerce marketplace and design training will enable weaver communities to sustain themselves and provide livelihood to artisans,” Jayesh Ranjan, Principal Secretary of Industries & IT, Telangana said.

He added, “This also is a practical solution to motivate a younger generation of weavers to continue with their traditions and not divert into other professions.”