CHARGE Phase 2

The CHARGE II project, led by BFA Global in partnership with the Chinese Academy of Financial Inclusion (CAFI) and Entitled Solutions, was launched to enhance the financial health of gig economy workers, specifically delivery riders in China and India. Through research, design sprints, product testing, and policy engagement, the project has built a strong foundation for transforming how digital workers access financial services.

The project was launched in 2019 to tackle the pressing financial health challenges faced by gig economy workers, particularly the growing community of urban delivery riders in China, who are digitally connected yet remain economically vulnerable and underserved by traditional financial institutions. In 2022, following regulatory constraints in China, the program transitioned to India. Its core objective to assess and enhance access to financial services for gig workers through tailored financial products and metrics was subsequently adapted to the Indian gig economy landscape. Key project outputs include:

1. Development of a Financial Health Framework adapted specifically to the realities of gig workers in China and India, designed to assess and track financial well-being across multiple dimensions.
2. Design and Pilot of Innovative Financial Products that address the unique needs of gig workers, including piloting an EMI-based motor vehicle insurance product and developing a blueprint for a comprehensive, inclusive motor vehicle insurance product for cab drivers and delivery riders in India.
3. Integration of Financial Health as a core guiding principle within partner platforms, influencing product design, service delivery, and engagement strategies to promote worker stability and long-term resilience.
4. Advancements in Credit Modeling and Enablement
   Enhancing existing credit models and piloting B2C credit enablement initiatives with platform partners to expand responsible access to credit for gig workers.
5. Policy and Knowledge Dissemination
   Generating and sharing policy-relevant insights to inform ecosystem stakeholders and policymakers on approaches to improve the financial resilience, stability, and overall well-being of vulnerable gig workers.