40 Women Improving Income through a Sweet Business

Women entrepreneurs who specialize in sweet and baked goods are already recognized in their rural areas for the quality of their products. Having experienced growth and recognition within their communities, they decided to try and improve their sales reach by participating in a fair in a nearby town. After obtaining the necessary permits, they tried their luck at the La Cocha fair, located 20km from their rural area.

During their first experiences at this fair, they faced several obstacles, especially in logistics and expenses due to the distance between the two locations, which was a real challenge for them. Thanks to the network they had built, they were able to get help from a family in La Cocha who provided them with space to store their sales tools, products, and supplies.

To increase their sales, they had to reorganize their production activities. They now produce on Mondays and Wednesdays for sales in their local area, and on Fridays, they prepare for the La Cocha fair the next day (Saturday). They transport their products in boxes and move around on motorcycles, as it is the only means of transportation they have.

The group members state that this experience was enriching as they tried a new sales method, becoming mobile vendors and roaming around the fair to offer their products. This new experience of becoming street vendors was successful, as they managed to sell all their products. Additionally, they were able to apply the marketing and sales knowledge gained from ACDI training!

Having achieved success at the fair, they decided to locate another extra sales space in a more remote area, in the Juan Bautista Alberdi. They participated in an entrepreneur fair, exhibiting their sweet and baked goods. This space not only meant an opportunity to boost sales, also allowed them to meet other entrepreneurs and exchange different strategies and experiences. This participation is still a significant challenge for them as distance is still a hindrance. Therefore, they continue to sell in their local area and at the La Cocha fair.

The women emphasize that the training they received from ACDI was instrumental in deciding to start their business. Moreover, thanks to the support of the professionals, they managed to create their brand name, which empowered them!

The work of these women is noteworthy as they continue to grow and expand their opportunities.

Thanks to everyone who made this work possible!