Global Business Models Arising from the Utilization of ICT as a Means to Generate Sustainable Livelihood among Communities in Marginalized and Challenging Environments

Abstract

The goal of this research is to examine how Information Communication Technology (ICT) is optimized to spark and strengthen entrepreneurship among communities in challenging environments –geographically isolated and depressed areas (GIDA) and communities displaced by natural calamities and armed conflicts. Specifically, the research would like to examine how ICT gadgets, particularly, android phones as well as social media platforms can transform people from these areas into successful self-reliant enterprise operators. Further, the research will also determine how business operators, corporate foundations, development assistance agencies, governments, civil society and academic institutions should effectively invest on ICT and be an effective means to enable people to succeed in disorganized and challenging environments. The expected users of the resulting reference material include governments, multilateral and bilateral development assistance agencies, corporate foundations, academic institutions and civil society organizations. The research is also expected to contribute in terms of the development of policies and programs that will create and help enterprises to flourish in disorganized and challenging environments through ICT.