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Drishtee estimates that an average monthly revenue of US $150 per month would be sufficient for a telecentre to break even, assuming the monthly operational cost to run a telecentre is approximately US $100, allowing for a US $50 surplus. Drishtee states that since 2004, their service package has been capable of generating that target amount within six to 12 months of the initial operation of a telecentre.
Grameenphone CIC states that by using its model, including phone line connections, FlexiLoad phone cards, and EDGE mobile Internet services, telecentres can reach the break-even point in one year. The package includes a one-year free subscription service.
Figure 4.9b: Overall strategy to improve telecentre revenues
Improved income
Building enterpreneurial capacity
Telecentre
Premium value product & services Low value product & services Basic IT services
Building financial capacity