In today’s e-commerce landscape, small businesses face numerous challenges, including intense competition and high operational costs. E-Startups Kenya is excited to guide you through setting up your own Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) marketplace—a revolutionary platform tailored for small merchants in Nairobi, aiming to democratize digital commerce.
Understanding ONDC: A Lifeline for Small Businesses
ONDC, developed during the challenging COVID-19 pandemic, addresses fraud risks and lack of digital infrastructure, which were significant hurdles for small enterprises. It offers a centralized, secure, and transparent environment where buyers and sellers can seamlessly interact. As of the last year, ONDC has expanded into 236 cities, supporting over 36,000 merchants.
Benefits of ONDC Marketplace
ONDC is designed to empower local businesses by connecting them with a vast audience, thereby reducing the dominance of large e-commerce platforms. Here are some key advantages:
- Supports Local Retail: Specifically benefits sectors like food and groceries.
- Expands Reach: Connects sellers directly to a large pool of buyers.
- Promotes Fair Competition: Helps reduce the dominance of big e-commerce sites.
- Facilitates Direct Interaction: Allows direct contact between vendors and customers without intermediaries.
- Supports Efficient Logistics: Sellers can choose their delivery partners, lowering transportation costs.
How to Create an ONDC Marketplace
Creating an ONDC marketplace involves setting up dedicated seller and buyer apps through which participants can register and transact. E-Startups Kenya provides robust support in developing these platforms.
Steps to Establish Your ONDC Marketplace
- ONDC Seller Registration: Sellers register using apps like Mystore or Seller App, entering details like business information and GSTIN number.
- Product Listing: After registration, sellers list their products by uploading their inventory.
- Selecting Delivery Partners: Sellers can compare prices and choose from registered delivery partners, such as Dunzo and Delhivery, to handle logistics efficiently.
ONDC Buyer Application
- Buyers use the buyer app to search for products or sellers registered under ONDC.
- They can simply enter their area pin code, select their preferred seller, and place orders just like on any other e-commerce app.
Leveraging Technology
ONDC utilizes blockchain technology for secure and transparent transactions, and the Beckn protocol to handle monetary transactions like orders and payments.
E-Startups Kenya’s Role in Building Your ONDC Marketplace
With over 13 years of experience in creating marketplaces, E-Startups Kenya is your ideal partner. We assist in developing both seller and buyer applications, ensuring your entry into the ONDC marketplace is smooth and successful.
Conclusion: Embrace the Future of E-commerce with ONDC
ONDC not only levels the playing field for small and mid-level sellers but also integrates them into a broader market, helping them stand toe-to-toe with e-commerce giants. It’s a win-win for the local retail and logistics industries, catalyzing growth and innovation.
E-Startups Kenya is dedicated to supporting Nairobi’s vibrant small business community through the ONDC network. Whether you’re looking to expand your reach, reduce costs, or streamline operations, ONDC offers a comprehensive solution.
For further information on setting up your ONDC marketplace or any inquiries, please contact us at E-Startups Kenya Support. Let’s transform your business with the power of ONDC today!
