PARTNER
WorkFREE India
Imagine a world where social policy truly supports people’s needs and builds community strength. WorkFREE is making that vision a reality with its groundbreaking UBI+ (Universal Basic Income) pilot in Hyderabad, India.
Partner Type
Academic, Knowledge Base
Location
Hyderabad, India
Funded Since
2022
Total Amount Funded
$60,000
ABOUT
WorkFREE India
WorkFREE is pioneering a new approach to social policy with its UBI+ pilot, offering unconditional basic income to 1,250 residents in Hyderabad’s informal settlements. This initiative goes beyond simple cash distribution by also involving community organisers who help people address their collective needs.
The project is designed to nurture solidarity and transform lives by creating time and space for people to reimagine and improve their communities. WorkFREE’s approach aims to provide a powerful blueprint for more inclusive and effective social protection systems.
Contribution of Mustardseed Trust
At Mustardseed Trust, we believe in opportunities rather than problems.
Universal basic income is a vital part of a care economy. WorkFREE is a unique pilot in that it works hand-in-hand with community support for the communities receiving a UBI. Because WorkFREE is following principles of solidarity over charity, this makes their work all the more interesting to us. This research demonstrates a new way of doing social policy that highlights agency and solidarity. If it proves successful, it could set a new global example, and we’re eager to see if it can be scaled up.
The WorkFREE Project UBI+ blends basic income with hands-on, community-driven support
Kaveri (a name we changed) always dreamed of getting a scooter to broaden her horizons and explore new job and business opportunities. With the boost from her monthly UBI payments, she and her husband felt confident enough to apply for a loan, planning to use their UBI to cover the repayments. The UBI turned out to be a game-changer, giving them the empowerment and assurance they needed to make a big financial leap.
WorkFREE has completed the first half of its UBI+ pilot in five Indian slum communities. Research shows that consistent cash and community support are making a real difference in people’s lives.
WorkFREE is bis actively building relationships with policymakers to push for UBI+ and is sharing its expertise to help set up new pilots worldwide.
WorkFREE will soon share detailed findings on how UBI+ affects income, health, and social life, including an upcoming film by an award-winning UK filmmaker. They’ve also put out a handy guide on running UBI+ pilots.
How WorkFREE India builds a regenerative future
Healthy eco-systems
Giving people the financial stability to make choices that benefit both themselves and their environment.
Partnership
Building strong community connections and collaborative networks.
New money systems
Demonstrating how reliable cash can transform lives and stimulate local economies.