Job Description: Designer Organization: KADAM Location: Madhubani, Bihar Employment Type: Full Time, Contract Reporting to: Project Director Experience: 5+ years in textile or fashion design with experience in craft-based product development Education : B.Des / M.Des in Fashion/Textiles Compensation : Commensurate with experience and qualifications, up to ₹9.6 LPA About KADAM KADAM is a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering rural artisans and strengthening craft-based livelihoods. Since its inception in 2006, KADAM has been actively involved in artisan cluster development, skill enhancement, and market integration across multiple states, impacting over 10,000 artisans. With a strong focus on skill development, market access, and sustainable craft practices, KADAM provides hands-on training in advanced design techniques, quality control, and business development. The organization fosters women’s empowerment, with 85% of its artisan workforce comprising women, promoting financial independence and leadership. Through strategic partnerships with UNESCO, World Bank, Titan Company Limited, NABARD, HCL Foundation, and State Rural Livelihood Missions, KADAM ensures impactful interventions for artisan sustainability. Its initiative, KADAM HAAT, connects artisans directly with national and international markets, ensuring fair wages and long-term economic stability. Role Overview The Designer (IDC) will be responsible for leading all aspects of design education, product innovation, and artisan support within the Incubation and Design Centres (IDCs) in Madhubani. This is a full-time, field-based role focused on blending traditional Mithila painting with modern design sensibilities. The Designer will guide artisans in creating high-quality, market-ready collections that align with contemporary consumer trends while preserving cultural authenticity. Key Responsibilities Design Education and Training • Conduct workshops on design fundamentals such as size, proportion, balance, color theory, motif creation, and pattern development. • Build artisans’ capacity to design independently while upholding traditional techniques. Research and Development • Explore new concepts and techniques that integrate modern aesthetics with Mithila art. • Maintain ongoing research to ensure the product line evolves with consumer and market demands. Product Design and Development • Create innovative product ranges that blend tradition with market needs across textiles, home décor, and wearable art. • Collaborate with the marketing and production teams to ensure market viability and scalability of designs. Artisan Training and Support • Provide hands-on, on-ground design mentorship to artisans. • Troubleshoot design issues and enhance the quality and appeal of artisan products. Quality Assurance and Innovation • Set and maintain design quality standards across all products emerging from the IDCs. • Foster a culture of continuous design innovation among artisan teams. Key Competencies • Strong foundation in textile/fashion design principles • Experience working with artisan communities or handcraft sectors • Strong visual communication, illustration, and prototyping skills • Ability to mentor, teach, and collaborate in low-resource contexts • Sensitivity to cultural identity and traditional knowledge systems • Proficiency in Adobe Suite or equivalent design tools (optional but desirable) • Languages: English, Hindi (Maithili preferred) How to Apply Interested candidates can send their resumes and a cover letter to info@kadamindia.org with the subject "Application for Designer – IDC, Madhubani Project."
Internship Opportunities Organization: KADAM Location: Kolkata (Hybrid options available) Duration: Minimum 2–3 months Application Deadline: Rolling Stipend: Based on profile and project assignment About KADAM KADAM is a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering rural artisans and strengthening craft-based livelihoods. Since its inception in 2006, KADAM has been actively involved in artisan cluster development, skill enhancement, and market integration across multiple states, impacting over 10,000 artisans. With a strong focus on skill development, market access, and sustainable craft practices, KADAM provides hands-on training in advanced design techniques, quality control, and business development. The organization fosters women’s empowerment, with 85% of its artisan workforce comprising women, promoting financial independence and leadership. Through strategic partnerships with UNESCO, World Bank, Titan Company Limited, NABARD, HCL Foundation, and State Rural Livelihood Missions, KADAM ensures impactful interventions for artisan sustainability. Its initiative, KADAM HAAT, connects artisans directly with national and international markets, ensuring fair wages and long-term economic stability. We are looking for Interns across the following roles: 1. Project Execution Intern Support the implementation of craft-based livelihood projects. Assist in training coordination, documentation, field logistics, and follow-up with artisan clusters. 2. Communications & Social Media Intern Support KADAM’s digital presence by curating social media content, helping manage our platforms, and promoting ongoing work. Basic design skills (Canva, etc.) preferred. 3. Storytelling & Documentation Intern Assist in creating human-interest stories, case studies, and visual narratives of artisans and projects. Writing, photography, or video editing skills would be an advantage. 4. Research & Report Writing Intern Work closely with the core team to prepare donor reports, pitch decks, and impact documentation. Strong written communication and analytical skills needed. Ideal Candidate Profile: • Passionate about craft, sustainability, and rural development. • Strong communication and interpersonal skills. • Self-motivated, detail-oriented, and proactive. • Students or recent graduates in design, social sciences, development, journalism, or business. How to Apply Send your resume with a short note on your area of interest to info@kadamindia.org with the subject line: “Internship Application – [Your Preferred Role]”
Job Description: Project Lead Organization: KADAM Location: Kolkata Employment Type: Full Time Reporting to: Head – Programmes and Strategy, KADAM Experience: 5+ years in project management, preferably in the livelihoods, artisan development, or social impact sector. About KADAM KADAM is a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering rural artisans and strengthening craft-based livelihoods. Since its inception in 2006, KADAM has been actively involved in artisan cluster development, skill enhancement, and market integration across multiple states, impacting over 10,000 artisans. With a strong focus on skill development, market access, and sustainable craft practices, KADAM provides hands-on training in advanced design techniques, quality control, and business development. The organization fosters women’s empowerment, with 85% of its artisan workforce comprising women, promoting financial independence and leadership. Through strategic partnerships with UNESCO, World Bank, Titan Company Limited, NABARD, HCL Foundation, and State Rural Livelihood Missions, KADAM ensures impactful interventions for artisan sustainability. Its initiative, KADAM HAAT, connects artisans directly with national and international markets, ensuring fair wages and long-term economic stability. Role Overview The Project Lead will be responsible for the overall planning, execution, and management of KADAM’s livelihood and artisan development projects. The role requires a dynamic individual who can oversee multiple stakeholders, ensure effective implementation of project goals, and drive impact through strategic interventions. Key Responsibilities Project Management & Execution • Lead end-to-end implementation of the project, ensuring timelines, deliverables, and objectives are met. • Develop and oversee work plans, budgets, and resource allocation. • Coordinate with various teams, including design, training, marketing, and finance, to ensure smooth operations. • Ensure compliance with donor guidelines and project documentation requirements. Stakeholder Engagement • Build and maintain strong relationships with artisan clusters, ancillary stakeholders and government bodies. • Work closely with artisans to ensure their needs and challenges are addressed effectively. Training & Capacity Building • Oversee the development and execution of artisan training programs. • Ensure that artisans receive the necessary support to enhance their production capabilities and market readiness. • Work with trainers and consultants to create and execute impactful learning modules. Market Linkages & Business Development • Collaborate with buyers, retailers, and brands to create market opportunities for artisans. • Work on pricing strategies, quality control, and product innovation to increase artisan sales. • Facilitate participation in exhibitions, trunk shows, and e-commerce platforms. Monitoring, Evaluation & Reporting • Track project impact through data collection, surveys, and field visits. • Prepare reports for internal review and donor reporting. • Identify challenges and propose solutions for continuous project improvement. Qualifications & Skills Required • Master’s degree in Social Work, Rural Development, or related fields. • Minimum 5 years of experience in project management, preferably in livelihoods, skill development, or artisan-focused initiatives. • Strong leadership and team management skills. • Experience in working with artisan communities, NGOs, or rural enterprises is preferred. • Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities. • Proficiency in MS Office, data management, and reporting tools. • Willingness to travel to project locations as needed. Preferred Skills • Knowledge of handicraft sectors, artisan clusters, and design interventions. • Experience in market linkages, product development, and sustainable business models. • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Compensation Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications. How to Apply Interested candidates can send their resumes and a cover letter to info@kadamindia.org with the subject "Application for Project Lead – KADAM."