Question 1

What is Project Potential?

Accepted Answer

Project Potential is a registered trust.

Question 2

Why does Project Potential exist?

Accepted Answer

There are a number of problems which our team observed which we believed were not being addressed adequately.  These include:
the fact that certain districts in India have poverty rates 10x+ higher than others; (b) many of these districts are underinvested in
many development projects which do aim to address challenges in these districts do not adequately create opportunities for local people to lead and create change
Our hope is to create a development model which can empower local people to lead in a way that improves social and economic outcomes.

Question 3

What is Project Potential’s vision?

Accepted Answer

To end poverty sustainably and inclusively in India’s poorest districts.

Question 4

What is Project Potential’s mission?

Accepted Answer

Enable intergenerational social mobility for youth in India’s poorest districts.

Question 5

Who founded Project Potential Trust?

Accepted Answer

Zubin Sharma and Abodh Kumar

Question 6

When did we start?

Accepted Answer

22 August, 2014

Question 7

Where do we work?

Accepted Answer

We have worked in 5 districts in Bihar thus far - Araria, Katihar, Kishanganj, Purnea, and Supaul, though most consistently and deeply in Kishanganj District.

Question 8

What kinds of projects have we run so far?

Accepted Answer

Virtually all of the programs we run always have a dual purpose:

1. The primary purpose is to develop local youth leaders through a combination of community projects and capacity building activities such as workshops, learning journeys, and mentorships

2. The second purpose is to create change in the community through the community projects, which we have run in sectors including education, entrepreneurship, community art and theater, skill development, health, and governance.

Question 9

What is eArthshala and what is the relationship between Project Potential and eArthshala?

Accepted Answer

eArthshala is the 15-acre campus owned and operated by Project Potential Trust.
eArthshala aims to be a space for leadership in sustainable development, aiming to attract and develop leaders in the field. 
In addition, the campus is meant to reflect sustainable development principles, including ecologically friendly materials and local employment opportunities and investment.
As a part of Project Potential, eArthshala aims to support the strategies the organization is pursuing, but may also expand the scope which we focus on in the future.

Question 10

Who has supported our work thus far?

Accepted Answer

Various people and institutions including but not limited to:

1. Mr. Narayana Murthy, Mr. SD Shibulal
2. Infosys Foundation, Ashraya Hastha Trust
3. Azim Premji Foundation, Lal Family Foundation, Book a Smile, and others
4. We are the only organization in Bihar to raise funding from four people on the Forbes India list

Question 11

Are donations to Project Potential Trust tax exempt?

Accepted Answer

Yes; Project Potential has 12A registration, and we provide receipts to all donors to claim tax exemption for donations.

Question 12

What can I do to find out more?

Accepted Answer

Watch TED talks by some of our founders:
Zubin Sharma - link
Eureka Khong - link

Visit our social media
Instagram
Facebook
LinkedIn

Question 13

Have more questions?

Accepted Answer

Feel free to shoot us an email at projectpotential2014@gmail.com

Frequently asked questions