Gender Equality Costa Rica Project #56071

Help women's sustainable businesses in Costa Rica

by Diwo Ambiental

Project Report | Sep 16, 2024
More communities closer to sustainable development

By Jimena M Araya C | Communications Director

The "Employability of Women and Youth in Sustainable Green Businesses" project has focused on promoting the autonomy and leadership of women and young people from vulnerable communities in Costa Rica, encouraging their participation in sustainable businesses from economic, social, and environmental perspectives. Throughout the year, a series of trainings and mentoring sessions have been implemented to provide these populations with the tools needed to manage and expand green enterprises, while empowering them in key areas such as gender equality, human rights, and business management.

Trainings and Mentoring in Sierpe: In May, a bootcamp was held in the community of Sierpe, involving 18 participants, including members of associations of fishermen and piangueros (shellfish gatherers), tour operators, guides, and entrepreneurs from the local Chamber of Commerce and Tourism. This event, conducted over two weekends, included a total of 9 training sessions aimed at developing sustainable enterprises. Through partnerships with organizations such as the Brunka Turtle Project, the National Museum of Costa Rica, the Legislative Assembly, the Eco Tárcoles Project, and Pacific Plastic Wood, participants learned about sustainability, productive linkages, and business growth strategies.

This space not only provided practical knowledge but also fostered the establishment of networks and relationships among local actors, paving the way for future collaborations in sustainable projects. As a result of these connections, some organizations have already held additional meetings to receive advice on specific topics related to the development of their initiatives.

Of the 11 projects submitted in Sierpe for mentoring, 9 were selected to receive personalized support in areas such as economics, environment, society, and communication. These projects range from a butterfly garden to associations of piangueros, lodging, and tourism services, all with a focus on the sustainable use of local resources and the promotion of ecotourism.

Progress in the Brunca Region: In the Brunca Region, significant progress has been made in communities such as Térraba, Boruca, Palmar Sur, and Sierpe. Four local ventures have been supported through the development of business plans tailored to the needs and potential of each community. Additionally, $10,000 in supplies have been provided to 12 other ventures, strengthening their operations and improving their prospects for sustainable growth. This process has created direct economic opportunities for women and young people in the region, aligned with environmental sustainability principles.

Key Outcomes:

The entrepreneurship training sessions have equipped participants with the essential knowledge and tools to manage their businesses with a triple-bottom-line focus: social, environmental, and economic.
Mentoring has allowed for close support of the ventures, helping participants improve their business models and identify new growth opportunities.
Partnerships with local and national organizations have strengthened the project, facilitating the transfer of knowledge and essential resources for the success of the ventures.

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May 14, 2024
Empowering Women through Sustainable Businesses

By Jimena | Communications Director

In the ongoing endeavor to uplift marginalized communities in Costa Rica, the "Employability of women and young people in sustainable green businesses" project continues to make strides towards its goals of fostering economic, social, and environmental sustainability. Against the backdrop of climate change and the COVID-19 pandemic, the project remains steadfast in its commitment to empowering women and youth in communities grappling with systemic challenges. Here, we delve into the recent developments and initiatives undertaken within the project framework.

The project has embarked on a multifaceted approach to address the complex interplay of factors affecting rural and indigenous communities. Collaborating closely with stakeholders and community leaders, Diwo Ambiental has facilitated capacity-building workshops, training sessions, and skill development programs tailored to the specific needs of women and youth in Boruca, Palmar Sur, and Térraba. These initiatives encompass a wide range of topics, including business management, gender equality, human rights, and anti-discrimination practices.

Furthermore, the project has facilitated the establishment of community-led enterprises and green businesses, providing seed funding, technical support, and mentorship to budding entrepreneurs. From organic farming cooperatives to eco-tourism ventures, these initiatives not only generate income but also promote sustainable practices and cultural preservation. Additionally, efforts to restore degraded ecosystems through reforestation, watershed management, and sustainable agriculture have gained traction, bolstering community resilience and enhancing natural resource management.

Preliminary assessments indicate a positive trajectory towards achieving the project's long-term objectives. Women and youth participants report increased confidence, skills, and opportunities for economic empowerment. Moreover, the ripple effects of community engagement and environmental stewardship are beginning to manifest, with improved ecosystem health, enhanced biodiversity, and strengthened social cohesion observed in project areas. Importantly, the project's emphasis on gender equality and social inclusion has contributed to the amplification of marginalized voices and the dismantling of barriers to participation.

As the project enters its next phase, emphasis will be placed on scaling up successful interventions, fostering cross-community collaboration, and leveraging partnerships for sustained impact. Initiatives such as knowledge exchange forums, peer-to-peer learning networks, and market linkages will be prioritized to ensure the continued growth and viability of green businesses. Furthermore, efforts to mainstream gender-responsive approaches and youth engagement strategies will be integral to fostering an inclusive and equitable development paradigm.

In conclusion, the "Employability of women and young people in sustainable green businesses" project stands as a testament to the transformative potential of grassroots initiatives in addressing complex socio-environmental challenges. By empowering women and youth as agents of change, the project not only catalyzes economic development but also nurtures a culture of sustainability and resilience within communities. As we reflect on the journey thus far, it is evident that the collective efforts of stakeholders, donors, and community members have laid a strong foundation for positive change. Moving forward, the project remains committed to realizing its vision of a more equitable, prosperous, and environmentally sustainable future for all.

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Dec 20, 2023
For more women led sustainable businesses in 2024

By Jimena Araya | Communications Director

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