Because the formal labor market in Nicaragua is quite limited, we also provide support and mentoring for the development of small, family businesses. After vocational training, those businesses that show the most promise are provided with additional training and seed capital to purchase equipment and supplies.
To date, we have worked to develop a women’s sewing business, two bakeries, a carpentry shop for eight young men and many other family enterprises. While these businesses will take time to become independent and self-sustaining, they are currently generating income for more than fifty families. The key to long-term success is providing mentoring and support during the early stages of business development.