Ignite in Peru

A group of Peruvian women stand together and smile outside under a large tree.
Ignite Program

Supporting Peruvian entrepreneurs

Overview

The Ignite project in Peru supported thousands of small business owners, particularly women, to grow their businesses, support their families, and strengthen their communities. The project was part of CARE’s global Ignite Program, in partnership with the Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth, which runs in Pakistan, Peru and Vietnam. All three countries have large numbers of small and micro-enterprises that are ready to grow, but lack access to the support and investment they need.

In Peru, Ignite partnered with local financial organizations to connect entrepreneurs with the technology, networks, and training they needed to thrive.

A woman wearing a bright blue collared shirt smiles under a sign that says,

Who we reached

Over three years in Peru, Ignite:

  • Reached almost 1 million Peruvian entrepreneurs—over 50% of whom are women
  • Supported over 36,000 businesses
  • Impacted more than 208,000 people, including employees, families, and community members
  • Focused on growth-ready businesses with fewer than 10 employees which had been in operation for at least two years.

Key Activities & Partners

Financiera Confianza

A microfinance institution focused on women’s financial inclusion.

• Co-designed and delivered customized financial products, services, and consumer education for women-owned businesses.

Fundación Capital

A social enterprise using digital tools to improve economic opportunities.

• Offered wrap-around support including financial literacy, business mentoring, and a mobile app adapted for entrepreneurs.

• Reached more than 400,000 people across Latin America.

Oliver

A fintech company helping entrepreneurs build financial and business skills. 

• Launched a virtual platform offering technical assistance, digital skills training, and business coaching.

CARE

An industry-leading international humanitarian and development organization.

• Led mass outreach campaigns to promote inclusive finance, digital solutions, and gender-equal entrepreneurship.

• Addressed social and institutional barriers while promoting women’s leadership in business.

The opportunity

Micro and small businesses power Peru’s economy. In 2020, micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) were responsible for 78.4% of total formal jobs of the country. These enterprises create jobs and reinvest in their communities. But many—especially those led by women—are still underserved by banks, training programs, and tech tools.

Meet Maria Elena

Name: Maria Elena Menacho García

Location: Trujillo, Peru

Business: Owns 2 jewelry stores

Monthly sales: US $5,000

Employees: 5

Trading: Since 2012

Aspiration: To switch from retail to wholesale

Needs: Financial capital to grow the business; digital skills to grow the business online