GESTE Supports Multiple Projects Across Mexico

In Mexico, the GESTE Foundation supports several projects that complement the work of the DGRV in meaningful ways. They are implemented in various regions and states.

The "ISKALI Artisans" project is already in its second phase. The target group consists of members of cooperatives in rural areas of the states of Chiapas, Guerrero, Oaxaca, Puebla, and Yucatán who wanted to join a trading platform for their products. Through the development of a digital platform, the online commercialization of Mexican handicrafts is made possible under quality standards and at fair prices. Innovation and design of the artisans' products are also promoted. Training content includes trade, design, and packaging.

In San Sebastíán Nicananduta in the state of Oaxaca, the "Nicananduta Pear Products" project is advancing the creation of a cooperative model for the production, marketing, and distribution of products from small-scale pear farming. In addition to sustainable cultivation, cooperative members are supported in the production and marketing of pear products such as liqueur, jams, and soaps. The joint brand "Micxtli" has been developed. Challenges such as drought in the growing region, which leads to crop losses, can thus be addressed collectively and further steps adapted cooperatively.

Also in Oaxaca, the now-completed "Al Chaz" project was implemented, which involved developing an app for financial education for children and young people.

Complementing the work of the DGRV, the "Sustainable Finance" project offers training for members of savings and credit cooperatives to promote a culture of sustainable finance. The goal is to introduce and promote inclusive criteria regarding social and environmental factors that are seen as cross-cutting to financial issues. References are also made to the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations' 2030 Agenda. The project spans the states of Guerrero, Querétaro, Guadalajara, and Jalisco.

The "Cooperatives Becoming More Sustainable" project focuses on developing and implementing an environmentally friendly management model aimed at reducing the carbon footprint. This is to be achieved through adapted and improved use of internal and external resources, as well as adopting examples of good practice. Working meetings and awareness workshops are being held with members of the participating savings and credit cooperative CSN to develop a sustainability strategy.