The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of El Salvador held an entrepreneurship fair and seed capital distribution event, benefiting 88 returned migrants and individuals at risk of migration. This initiative is part of the SEMILLAS Project, funded by the Italian government through the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS) and implemented in collaboration with the National Commission for Micro and Small Enterprises (CONAMYPE).
The selected entrepreneurs, originating from San Salvador, Chalatenango, Usulután, and San Miguel, underwent four months of business training. Deputy Minister of Diaspora and Human Mobility, Cindy Mariella Portal, emphasized that the participants completed a rigorous process, including a business and psychosocial training program, followed by a competition to secure seed capital funding.
“This is the first of three entrepreneurship fairs, the result of a training process led by CONAMYPE with an investment of $400,000,” Portal stated. A total of $222,925 in seed capital was allocated to 88 business models, covering sectors such as clothing, food, beverages, jewelry, and personal care products. Entrepreneurs will receive six months of follow-up support, including business formalization, banking access, and market linkages.
Italian Ambassador to El Salvador, Paolo Emanuele Rozo Sordini, highlighted the importance of these funds in fostering micro and small businesses to drive local economic growth. Meanwhile, CONAMYPE President Paul Steiner praised the participants’ commitment, stating that they have gained essential knowledge to manage and expand their businesses successfully.
Entrepreneur Karen Flamenco expressed her gratitude, saying, “Now I can open my own store and workshop, creating more jobs for fellow Salvadorans. This support is crucial for our success.”
The event also featured representatives from AICS, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and CONAMYPE, reinforcing the Salvadoran government’s commitment to providing opportunities for returned migrants and preventing irregular migration.