2024 MACARON DAY BENEFICIARY
Agros International works to end the cycle of poverty in Central America.
Supporting Entrepreneurs in Central America
While Agros’ work is quite extensive in Central America, we have chosen to allocate these funds to support their Women’s Entrepreneurial Fund.
First initiated with a grant from the United Nation’s agency IFAD (International Fund for Agricultural Development), this fund is for women and run by women. From heritage weaving and textiles to vegetable farms, these women have launched profitable businesses.
WHAT’S THE GOAL?
Agros’ goal is to increase the availability of these funds through the donations of generous people. With 900+ involved currently, there are women waiting in line for the opportunity to be involved. Women-led businesses help diversify household income and increase the likelihood that profits are reinvested to improve family well-being.
THE FUND SO FAR
903 entrepreneurs have used the start-up funding so far with 100% payback. From heritage weaving and textiles to vegetable farms, these women have launched profitable businesses. By December 2026, Agros aims to have 3300 women involved.
MEET SOME
ENTREPRENEURS
Anna, Weaver,
Cotzal, Guatemala
Anna is in the early stages of her weaving business. She is the president of the community weaving group called Monja Blanca which is named after the Guatemalan National Flower. The weavers in this group all work from home as they continue to take care of their children. Small Agros loans are used to buy thread. They work with a ‘Patron’ who sells their garments for a profit and pays them only for their labor.
With the credit from Agros’ Women’s Entrepreneurial Fund, Anna and her fellow weavers can purchase their own materials and are working towards selling them independently at markets which will increase their profits and benefit their family.
Isabel, Weaver, Ojo de Agua, Guatemala
A mother of five, Isabel is an established entrepreneur. Though she didn’t have the opportunity to attend school when she was young, she found an elder in her community who taught her to weave. As her business and dreams grew, she realized she needed another loom. With a clear plan in place, she applied for her first credit to buy a loom.
With the continuing help of Agros, she is able to invest in her business, and her family benefits. At one time, there was no food on the table. Now whenever her children ask for something to eat, she proudly reports, there is always something to offer.
Agros Believes There is dignity in the ownership of one’s livelihood.
Agros International works in Central America to break the cycle of poverty. Working side by side these rural communities, Agros starts by purchasing land. This land is put in the hands of the people. With Agros’ knowledge, tools and techniques, the land is cultivated by and for the community.
Alongside farming, community infrastructures like health care systems and schools are set up. Land is the start, and life is the hope.
PLAN YOUR FLAVORS
Which Macaron will you choose in honor of Agros International?