BetterStories Limited is conducting a comprehensive business model evaluation for Max Social Enterprise(MSE) aimed to strengthen the sustainability and efficiency of their water grid operations in rural Bangladesh. On October 29th, 2024, Minhaz Anwar, the Chief Storyteller at BetterStories, along with a team of MSE, visited two of MSE’s water grids in Patuakhali.
The purpose of this field visit was to gather firsthand insights into the functions, benefits, and challenges faced by these water grids, which serve to provide improved livelihood and health for local communities..
MSE is a sister company of Max Foundation Bangladesh. Max Foundation Bangladesh is a Netherlands-based NGO that is working to solve the country’s rural water crisis by providing accessible, safe water through innovative water grid systems. These grids pump and treat water, delivering it to residents at a minimal cost, ensuring that even the most remote communities have access to safe drinking water.
However, running such operations comes with its challenges. MSE is focused on refining its business model to ensure the smooth collection of monthly tariff payments and the long-term sustainability of the grids. By identifying key areas for improvement, BetterStories is supporting MSE to optimize its business model to both enhance service delivery and reach.
During the field visit, speaking with the users of these water grids has provided valuable insights into the functionality of the grids, the advantages they bring to local communities, and the challenges that need to be addressed. With these first hand findings, BetterStories aims to provide MSE with a set of analyzed recommendations that will allow MSE to continue its critical work while ensuring financial viability.
Through this collaboration, BetterStories and MSE aim to create a lasting impact on Bangladesh’s rural water infrastructure, improving both the lives of the people in need and the operational effectiveness of MSE's business model.