EntreTODOS are groups of 10-15 people living in rural areas of Guatemala. These are areas of difficult access but where there is some economic activity. These groups, based on mutual trust and solidarity among their members, meet monthly in order to save and, on that basis, lend each other money on advantageous terms.

This means no guarantees or collateral, according to the needs and flexibility that each member needs and with predefined interest rates by the same group. Nothing is given away under this model; the members repay the loans acquired and operate according to the statutes and guidelines established by the group itself, generating interest or profits that are redistributed among the members, with records and minimum control mechanisms.

We actively promote women’s participation in these savings and credit groups. Although their literacy levels are limited at the outset, we are working to ensure that they have equal access to membership, credit, decision-making and positions of responsibility. Participating in these groups gives them empowerment, autonomy and dignity, enabling them to contribute financially to their families.

In addition to promoting the creation of new groups, our team of professionals accompanies each group in all their meetings, and provides financial and organizational follow-up to review their trajectory and ensure their sustainability.

All decisions are made by the group. From CODESPA, we form, suggest and advise, but the groups take their future into their own hands and decide their functioning, which is reflected in their regulations.

We promote savings over credit as a tool to reduce vulnerability, provide liquidity in times of need and limit exposure to debt risk.

So far, we have been able to help 1,755 families, including 2,102 loans that are investing in health, education, food, but above all in productive activities that allow them to have a stable income.