Work that supports healing
A job can provide income, purpose and a path forward. For people affected by trauma, that opportunity grows stronger when work is paired with support for healing and a community where they belong. The Market Project creates businesses that bring all three together.
Three connected commitments. One purpose.
Sustainable Work
Earn a living. Build a future.
We create businesses that meet real market needs and provide meaningful jobs. Employees earn income, develop practical skills and gain opportunities to advance.
Trauma Healing
Create space for healing.
We equip managers to recognize the effects of trauma and lead with understanding. Employees can participate in culturally relevant trauma healing groups, with support for their healing journey.
Supportive Community
Build trust. Find belonging.
We cultivate workplaces where people are heard, respected and supported. Through daily work and relationships, employees build trust, strengthen teamwork and gain confidence in their own voice.
Our model in action
BuildRight
Arua, Uganda | Our newest enterprise
BuildRight is launching a construction materials business with a purpose beyond the products it sells: creating opportunities to earn, heal and belong. Its first phase focuses on building a customer base and laying the foundation for lasting jobs.
Nguvu Dairy
Northern Uganda | 2016–2024
Our first enterprise produced and sold yogurt while bringing together employment, trauma healing and supportive community. Over its eight years, Nguvu Dairy employed more than 770 men and women.
How we build businesses that last
Lasting jobs depend on viable businesses. Our ten-step process brings together market research, business planning, local leadership and support for employees—with the long-term goal of businesses employees can lead and earn ownership in.
- Build partnerships with organizations serving trauma survivors.
- Identify opportunities rooted in local needs and market demand.
- Research the market with industry experts and potential partners.
- Confirm mission alignment and the support employees will need.
- Develop a business plan with a credible path to financial sustainability.
- Raise startup capital to put the plan into action.
- Recruit an experienced leader to establish and manage the business.
- Coach, train and adapt to strengthen operations and support employees.
- Develop employee skills through cross-training and opportunities to advance.
- Work toward employee ownership through training, leadership development and an earn-out opportunity.
Help create a place to earn, heal and belong.
Your support helps launch businesses, develop local leaders and create workplaces where people affected by trauma can build a future.