Boost microbusinesses in Puerto Rico

“Today I learned that you can make business with different goals and you can add the concept of solidarity to each component of your enterprise.”

“In this process I feel more skilled, and I have developed a new conscience and perspective as an entrepreneur.”

“I have realized the opportunity I have of improving, and of overcoming the fear to socialize and interact with people, which is a key skill to be able to grow your business.”

“I understand that I am more in line with where and how I want to take my idea to create my business.  Even listening to other peers’ suggestions to my project gives me more ideas and concepts that I can integrate.”

These are some of the experiences shared by the participants in the Virtual Cycle of Semillas Microbusiness Incubator.  Entrepreneurship 101, Creativity and Innovation, The Economy and Businesses, What is a Solidary Business, Anatomy of a Business, From the Idea to a Business Model. These are some of the workshops that all the 37 budding entrepreneurs have been working on since March 20, 2021 when we started the 6th cycle of our Semillas Microbusiness Incubator. This is also the 1^st time we hold a virtual cycle using digital platforms.  Every Saturday until August 2021 they meet via digital platform to learn, think, share, dream and work on their microbusiness.

68% of participants are women.  The status of local economy makes people get creative in the different ways they can generate an income for their families. Some of the businesses they are working on are bakery, restaurant, swimsuit line, embroidery shop, uniforms, optic shop, a conflict mediation service office, soapmaking, costume jewelry making, childcare services, home cooked meals, among others. Some of them do not have a clear idea of what they want to do, and as they learn and share their thoughts with others during the workshops, develop a clear notion of their path in the microbusiness world.

We are proud of these friends who have the courage to think outside the box, make sacrifices, and look at the challenges of the times as opportunities for themselves, their families, and their communities.