7th Microfinance Program Opens in Latin America Thanks to Olam Specialty Coffee
Hanns Neumann Stiftung, along with Olam Specialty Coffee and Rotary International collaborate to open the 4th microfinance program for Women in Coffee, in Guatemala. Slam was an early adopter, realizing 100% payback from loans made to women coffee producers since 2012. Starting small with $8000.00, the first loans were made to women in the Adiesto Cooperative in Huehuetenango. This month, $50,000.00 will be wired to Guatemala to distribute among 300 producers to start a new business or expand existing small businesses.
The real impact is being measured and now scalability is a reality. Other pioneers include Portland Roasting, Apffels Fine Coffees, ICT, Pannikin, Daymar, Cafe Moto, and other specialty roasters. Money alone does not solve poverty. After four years, a training manual has been written, along with a training video to help the technical assistants on the ground train the trainer. For more information about all the countries that are open or how to participate, contact karencebreros@gmail.com.
