The study was carried out using integrated research methods for monitoring and communication missions of Bhalo. The information was gathered from both primary and secondary sources. The face-to-face survey tool and on-site observation tool were used in the quantitative research approach to gather the primary data. Verify the income-generating activities of the farmers and the Bhalo social enterprise outlets. The accessor has checked and validated the Bhalo project documentation with the end-level beneficiary as well as with the Bhalo project office on both sides.

• Quantitative Research Approach:
  Primary data was collected from farmers using the Face to Face (F2F) survey tool and the PAPI method was employed for interview and data acquisition using a quantitative research approach.
• On-sight Observation:

  We have used an on-site observation tool to gather detailed information about Bhalo Social Enterprise’s activities and engagement with farmers and beneficiaries. The assessor observed and evaluated the business process and value chain of the enterprise using the observation tool.

• Group Discussion

  There have been some informal group discussions held at both the project regional office and the project location. These discussions involved project staff and beneficiaries and were centered around project rules, regulations, norms, compliance, and business procedures. The information gathered during these discussions was checked and verified by all participating groups.

• Document Review:

  The Bhalo social enterprise has thoroughly reviewed project documents to ensure compliance and proper business processes for the benefit of farmers, who are the end-level beneficiaries. Both the Bhalo local office and the end-level beneficiaries have reviewed and checked these documents. Additionally, the documents of Bhalo outlets have been carefully reviewed by both the outlets themselves and their customers.

Geographical Coverage

The Bhalo Social Enterprise project has been implemented in Kurigram District, located approximately 400 km northwest of Dhaka. The project covers two upazilas, Kurigram Sadar and Ulipur. The map below displays the project’s execution area. A survey has been conducted in these two upazilas in Kurigram District as part of the project.

Overview About Bhalo Social Enterprise

At this project, we are passionate about supporting local farmers. As members of Bhalo, farmers have access to invaluable farming assistance and agro advice. We prioritize the welfare of animals by providing veterinary care, and we also supply seeds, pesticides, and fertilizers to promote responsible farming practices. Furthermore, we offer micro-credit to farmers. Our organization has already made a positive impact by collaborating with over 2,000 farmers since the start of 2019.

The Bhalo project operates in two Upazilas of Kurigram District, with two separate teams. The project includes 12 agents referred to as “Bhaijan” (Brother) and six supervisors known as “Boro Bhaijan” (Elder Brother). Additionally, there are two hub managers and one operation manager working in the field. The monitoring and communication project also has an account officer, a marketing manager with purchasing responsibilities, and project management. The diagram below illustrates the structure of the Bhalo project.

Marketing Process of Bhalo Social Enterprise

Customer Service of Bhalo Enterprise

• Cattle Feed & Agro Products:

  To become a member of the Bhalo project, farmers can register by buying products from the Bhalo agent, Bhaijan. The product price must be paid between the 25th of the previous month and the 24th of the next month. If any amount remains unpaid for the next month’s cycle, an additional 5% must be paid on the outstanding amount. Additionally, farmers can get 2% cashback on hand cash payments.

• Other Facilities: A fixed amount of financial facility is offered to a family member of Bhalo member on medical admission, surgery, or doctor consultation.
• Documentations: Both farmers and agents must keep purchase and sale documentation on file. Each document contains two parts: one for the agent and customer’s signature, and the other for the customer and agent’s signature. The agent’s copies are currently undergoing updates through the mobile application. Every transaction includes a payment voucher signed by both the agent and the customer.
• Micro Credit/Loan Service:

  Shadhin Fintech Ltd. and Bhalo members have come together to launch a new pilot project aimed at conducting research on monitoring and communication during the pilot implementation. It’s fantastic to see collaborations like this that can drive innovation and development in the industry.

  The project has a starting value of BDT 10,000.00 (BDT Ten Thousand Only). Which can be used for various purposes, such as purchasing cattle feed, and buying animals for husbandry. Conducting small businesses, and farming. The Bhalo project authority will oversee all aspects of the loan, including document verification and loan recovery. Profits from the Micro Credit/Loan Service will be shared by Bhalo with Shadhin.

Survey Outcomes on Beneficiaries of Bhalo Social Enterprise

• Survey Location Coverage

  The implementation of the Bhalo project in Kurigram district involved sampling from Kurigram Sadar and Ulipur Upazila. A chart was used to represent the sample distribution output.

• Customer Types of Bhalo Social Enterprise Program:

  This Social Enterprise program serves customers in the Kurigram district, with a chart showing primary customers making up 80% and secondary customers 20%.

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