Implementation Model: Cluster development Initiative The implementation of the project is planned through a business model, where professionals have been hired to work parallel on the project with NIFT students and staff. The project is being implemented at three levels – •  Design Studios (DS,), as focal points based in NIFT Centers for services and support for Business Development needs including Trends, Forecast, Market Intelligence, innovation & Product Development as well as Training & Knowledge dissemination for clusters. •  The development of Market Linkages, Linkages with Financial Institutions and Net working with trade partners & stakeholders and establishing micro enterprises will be initiated at the design nodes or Rural Development Enterprise Center (RDEC) at the clusters. This will be the nodal point to not only facilitate the implementation of various initiatives but also to pass on the skills and competences acquired as a result of various activities. •  The activities of Capacity Building such as new product development, skills & technological up-gradation, Common Brands etc will be linked to the Shared Resources & Technology Support Center (SRTSC) at the Sub-Cluster level. The implementation is staggered in three phases , each phase linked to a financial year First Phase:   •  Setting up the infrastructure, processes and hiring of people.   •  Completion of Diagnostic studies and formulation of strategies   •  Training workshops and product development   •  Introduction of financial schemes Second phase:   •  Technology and product up gradation.   •  Creation of specialists based on skill sets and trainings.   •  Marketing linkages   •  Creation of Horizontal and vertical linkages. Third Phase:   •  Putting self sustained models in place.   •  Continuous product and market development   •  Pilot projects for Sub clusters and SHG's.