2,869 Guatemalan MSMEs, which generate more than 13,000 jobs, improve their businesses thanks to financing from CABEI and its strategic allies

Guatemala City, Guatemala, June 27, 2024.- The high participation of micro-, small-, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in Central America's economic structure highlights their importance as generators of employment and income for a large part of the population. In response to this reality, since 2021 the Central American Bank for Economic Integration (CABEI) has provided just over US$90.3 million to finance working capital for 2,869 small businesses and protecting more than 13,000 jobs in Guatemala in collaboration with national financial intermediaries.

Of the total number of beneficiaries, 1,148 are enterprises led by women. This approach has enabled many microentrepreneurs to consolidate their businesses, promoting inclusion and economic empowerment in their communities.

Microenterprise “Bendición de Dios”

Enma Valle, a Guatemalan microentrepreneur who sells clothes in the Mixco market, says that the credit she obtained enabled her to buy more merchandise and expand her business, and has also allowed her to build her own house and provide education and food for her children.

Microenterprise “Natural´s Life”

Erika Solís, an entrepreneur with two employees, not only offers 100% natural health solutions, but also provides personalized advice to her clients "This business helps me a lot because I can provide for my family and help many people who have health and medical needs".

CABEI Executive President Gisela Sánchez highlighted, "Erika and Enma's stories are an inspiring example. At CABEI, we recognize the role of women as agents of social change and economic engines. More than a provider of financial resources, CABEI is a solid support for women who seek to transform their lives and communities. We believe in a future where women are the architects of their destinies, and we will continue to join efforts to make those goals a reality.”

The financing provided in Guatemala came from the Support Facility for MSMEs affected by COVID-19, a CABEI initiative that has been supported by strategic allies such as TaiwanICDF, the European Union, the German government through KfW, and the U.S. Development Finance Corporation (DFC).

CABEI, as the region's main source of resources, will continue to offer financial solutions on favorable terms and the resources necessary for MSMEs to prosper and contribute effectively to Central America's development.