DBS Foundation, in its continued commitment to fostering social and environmental change, has announced the recipients of its prestigious DBS Foundation Grant Award. Among the 24 businesses recognized for their impactful endeavors is Zerund Manufacturing, hailing from Guwahati, India.The Business for Impact (BFI) initiative not only provides financial support but also extends comprehensive assistance such as preferential banking packages and mentorship. This year’s awardees represent a diverse array of ventures dedicated to addressing pressing global challenges while uplifting communities.
Zerund Manufacturing stands out for its innovative solutions in the construction materials industry, emphasizing eco-friendly alternatives. Alongside Zerund, four other Indian businesses have been honored for their contributions to sectors ranging from menstrual health and waste management to circular economy initiatives. Shoma Narayanan, Managing Director of Group Strategic Marketing & Communications at DBS Bank India, expressed pride in supporting ventures tackling societal issues. The grant program aims to empower these enterprises to drive positive change effectively.
The awarded BFIs aim to achieve significant milestones by 2025, aligning with India’s Sustainable Development Goals. For instance, Zerund Manufacturing plans to scale its operations to produce more eco-friendly construction materials, contributing to climate change mitigation efforts.DBS Foundation’s decade-long commitment to championing BFIs has resulted in remarkable impacts, with over SGD 17 million awarded to 140 innovative ventures in the region. The support provided not only bridges funding gaps but also enables these enterprises to scale their solutions effectively. With DBS Foundation’s backing, these 24 BFIs aspire to positively impact one million underprivileged individuals, abate 30,000 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions, and manage 50,000 tonnes of waste by the end of 2025.DBS Bank’s broader pledge of SGD 1 billion over ten years demonstrates a sustained commitment to uplifting vulnerable segments in society, reinforcing the bank’s role as a catalyst for positive change.
