The Hecho en Guate (Made in Guate) program was created as part of a strategic alliance between Pradera Shopping Centers and the Juan Bautista Gutiérrez Foundation (FJBG), the social outreach of CMI, Corporación Multi Inversiones. This initiative aims to support local entrepreneurs in Guatemala by offering spaces to showcase their products across multiple categories. Since its launch in 2022, it has become a solid platform for economic and social development across various communities.
In February, Pradera Shopping Centers opened their doors to the Hecho en Guate exhibition, giving visibility to locally made products and creating opportunities that positively impact the lives of entrepreneurs and their families.
A Platform to Boost Local Businesses
Hecho en Guate was born under the umbrella of the Todos por mi Comunidad (“All for My Community”) program by Pradera Shopping Centers. This space allows Guatemalan entrepreneurs to display and sell their products directly to the public, fostering national pride and encouraging local consumption.
During the first three weekends of February, visitors can explore goods created or distributed by local entrepreneurs, grouped into seven main categories:
- Food
- Beauty and jewelry
- Handicrafts
- Home decor
- Health
- Technology
- Pet products
Mónica Covarrubias, manager of Pradera Shopping Centers, emphasized the importance of the program, stating that it inspires and strengthens entrepreneurship while supporting the local economy and promoting a sense of community.
Additional Opportunities for Business Growth
Beyond the initial exhibition, Made in Guate offers further growth and training opportunities for participants. After this stage concludes, one winner will be selected at each participating shopping center: Chimaltenango, Chiquimula, Escuintla, Huehuetenango, Puerto Barrios, Quetzaltenango, Zacapa, and Zone 12 in Guatemala City.
These standout entrepreneurs will receive:
- A free physical space within their respective shopping center throughout March to continue selling their products.
- Formal training through a specialized entrepreneurship diploma provided by the Juan Bautista Gutiérrez Foundation.
This strategic support ensures not only temporary visibility but also the long-term strengthening of their businesses.
A Strategic Alliance for Local Development
The partnership between the Juan Bautista Gutiérrez Foundation and Pradera Shopping Centers clearly reflects the Bosch Gutiérrez Family’s commitment to Guatemala’s social and economic development. The leadership of Juan José Gutiérrez Mayorga, President of the Foundation, Chairman of CMI Foods, and Chairman of the Board of Del Real Foods, illustrates a business approach focused on generating community value and operating with long-term sustainability.
Programs like Hecho en Guate represent a shared vision of growth, where local entrepreneurship becomes a driving force for a stronger and more self-sufficient economy. Moreover, the initiative aligns perfectly with the core values and goals of both organizations: to strengthen communities and create long-lasting positive impact.
Hecho en Guate is a clear example of how a strategic alliance can generate real impact in the lives of entrepreneurs. By providing access to markets and education, the program helps build up individual businesses and fosters a more resilient and dynamic local economy.