This case study by 2x Global focuses on Upaya Social Ventures, which was founded in India in 2011 on the premise that creating sustainable, dignified jobs for those in the poorest communities can lift millions out of extreme poverty while supporting the transition to a green economy. To help create these jobs, Upaya invests in early-stage entrepreneurs dedicated to employing at least 50% of their workforce from local communities living in extreme poverty, where fair-wage jobs with predictable income are needed most. These “missing middle” organisations tend to be too small to be targeted by commercial banks, venture capital, and other investors, and too large for microfinance institutions.