"Tumar's journey showcases how ancient traditions can coexist with modern technology, overcoming significant barriers to create a sustainable business in Kyrgyzstan's challenging economic landscape."
"The blend of nomadic felting techniques with Soviet-era machinery and ecommerce practices sets a unique precedent for women entrepreneurs seeking to innovate in resource-limited settings."
In Kyrgyzstan, women at Tumar are innovatively combining ancient felting techniques, Soviet machinery, and modern technology to establish a successful enterprise. Sisters-in-law Chinara Makashova and Nazgul Esenbaeva, witnessing a surge in Shopify orders, successfully export traditional felt slippers globally. Supported by USAID, they were beginning to establish a direct-to-consumer model when funding abruptly ended, creating a $35,000 gap. Despite the challenges of resource limitations and a struggling infrastructure, Tumar's unique business model demonstrates resilience and the potential for cultural craftsmanship to thrive in the modern market.
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