Resilient Women Entrepreneurs Need More Investor Support
Paulina Arista, a visionary entrepreneur, runs Ma Ye Ipefi, her textile upcycling workshop. This venture empowers women by providing income opportunities while promoting textile reuse for various products, such as bags. However, securing investor support remains challenging since socially impactful projects led by women are often overlooked.
Judith Aguilar Calls for a Shift in Investor Mindset
Judith Aguilar, founder of Fempower Latam, poses the question: “How do we change investors’ short-term profit focus when social entrepreneurship projects yield mid to long-term gains?” During the “Regenerating to Entrepreneur: Women Transforming the Planet’s Future” panel at GLI Latam, women entrepreneurs expressed their determination to continue encouraging more women to join the cause as long as there’s an opportunity to support social causes.
Investment Delays Hinder Women’s Social Impact
Marisol del Campo, General Director of Mitz, supports women in rural and peri-urban areas through circular economy. Her main challenge is the delayed payments from partner companies, taking 2-3 months, making it difficult to pay artisans on time.
“We need genuine, long-term commitment from partner companies, not just one-off philanthropic support,” del Campo added. Judith Aguilar emphasized that to regenerate the planet, focus should be given to rural women, as they are “scientifically key” in reversing biodiversity loss. However, they face challenges like the digital divide, illiteracy, and lack of economic independence support.
Sustainability Alone Isn’t Enough
Each panelist explained their societal contributions. Paola Cid, for instance, created biodegradable bamboo serviette products with an 80% female workforce. She advocates for more focused investments in sustainable projects by institutions, urging them to address social issues hindering vulnerable groups’ development alongside environmental concerns.
Marisol del Campo argues that businesses must fully engage with societal problems, not just observe from afar. She believes genuine commitment requires immersion in societal issues, not just reputational engagement.
Key Questions and Answers
- What are the main challenges faced by women social impact entrepreneurs? Delayed payments from partner companies and a lack of investor interest in long-term, socially impactful projects.
- Why are rural women crucial for environmental regeneration? Scientifically, they play a key role in reversing biodiversity loss.
- What additional focus is needed from institutions and investors regarding sustainable projects? More targeted investments in sustainable projects that also address social issues hindering vulnerable groups’ development.
