We are FUNDES
ABOUT US
We believe traditional entrepreneurs are the fundamental building block for Latin America’s long-term stability and prosperity.
But we are also pragmatic enough to know that they need to transform their perspective, practices, and tools to stay relevant and become more resilient.
That’s why we offer them practical on-the-ground expertise, a strong network of corporate and government partners, and a range of innovative technology solutions to help them succeed in today’s rapidly changing markets.
OUR STORY
A journey of spirit, cooperation,
and change.
FUNDES was founded in 1984 in response to a devastating wave of unemployment that hit the continent. Our founder, Stephan Schmidheiny was convinced that traditional entrepreneurs could be the best development opportunity for Latin America, and he was determined to be part of the answer.
He created an organization that gave micro-entrepreneurs access to credit to create jobs and contribute to growth. Gradually, FUNDES moved away from its original activity of financial support to focus on innovative ways to help micro and small businesses reach their full potential as changemakers.
We have built large-scale development programs around small businesses with corporations, foundations, governments, and international organizations.
After nearly 40 years, the same conviction still drives in 1984 in response to a devastating wave of unemployment spirit and celebrate the courage and passion it takes to build a small business here in Latin America.
OUR MISSION
To unleash the sustainable development of Latin America through the growth of small businesses. We fight poverty through livelihood and job creation.
OUR PURPOSE
We empower, digitize, and nurture small business owners from the traditional economy. Our solutions unlock their potential as changemakers for their community, their habitat, and all those who depend on them.
OUR FOOTPRINT
Countries with active projects: Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Colombia, Venezuela, Peru, Brasil, Bolivia, Chile, Argentina, Uruguay.
Hubs: Mexico, Costa Rica, Colombia, Peru.
We are represented in the United States, Latin America, and Europe.
OUR FOOTPRINT
Countries with active projects: Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Colombia, Venezuela, Peru, Brasil, Bolivia, Chile, Argentina, Uruguay.
Hubs: Mexico, Costa Rica, Colombia, Peru.
We are represented in the United States, Latin America, and Europe.
38 years speaking the language of MSMEs
OUR IMPACT

multinational companies

governments, development agencies and foundations in the region

million MSME´s brought together

presence in 17 Latin American countries
IMPACT 2021

MSME´s

entrepeneurs

women

men
Our team
“The passion in our team’s DNA is to change lives. We are a group of people of different nationalities and disciplines who are committed to making a change by developing projects and solutions that promote and empower small businesses in the traditional economy.”
Chief Executive Officer
Elfid Torres
Constantly looking for new talent!
Consulting

Anwar Suaréz
Project Manager

Carolina Rodríguez
Project Analyst
Catalyst
FUNDES Bolivia & Venezuela
FUNDES Bolivia

Leonardo Suárez
Project Manager

Leslie Claros
Head of Bolivia
Projects
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Talent Acquisition
Information Technology
Administration & Finances

Angie Bolaños
Accounting Leader

Grettel Solís
Accounting Analyst

Javier Arias
Accounting Analyst

Luis Vega
Maintenance

Priscila Cabrera
Legal Analyst

Wilson Cubillos
Administrative Analyst
Our board of directors

Andreas Eggenberg

Gabriela Víquez

Jenny Everett

Richard Aitkenhead

Rocío Abud
