Entrepreneurs from the municipalities of Lanco, Máfil, Mariquina, Los Lagos, Panguipulli and Valdivia, among others, came to Inacap’s headquarters in the regional capital to take part in the Luksic Foundation’s Entrepreneurs Meeting.
The more than 45 winners of the Impulso Inicial and Impulso Chileno initiatives participated in different activities, all with the aim of sharing their experiences, business practices and establishing connections between other entrepreneurs in the region.
“We know that the path of an entrepreneur can be a lonely one, that is why from the Foundation we want to provide them with a space, along with all the winners of the Entrepreneurship area of the region, so that they can get to know each other, generate networks with their peers and discover new opportunities for collaboration,” said Cristián Schalper, director of Entrepreneurship of the Luksic Foundation.
In addition, during the day there was a discussion with Rodolfo González and Loren Schmidt, both winners of Impulso Chileno, where they addressed the myths and opportunities of formalization, as well as commenting on their experience as entrepreneurs, the challenges they have faced and what actions they have taken to overcome them and continue to drive the growth of their businesses.
“I always tell all entrepreneurs to empower themselves, to believe the story, that nobody tells them that they can’t do things and most importantly, that they are clear about the value proposition of their business so that it can grow and be known everywhere,” says Rodolfo González, owner of the Ocholates de La Unión store.
Yanina Rojas, winner of Impulso Inicial, who attended the event, commented that it was very motivating and participative. “There were several entertaining and very useful dynamics, because I was able to meet many entrepreneurs from other sectors of the region, so we were connected to share data and even make orders for our businesses”.
So far, the entrepreneurs’ meetings, which bring together the winners of the programs from 2018 to date, have also been held in the regions of Arica and Parinacota, Tarapacá, Antofagasta, Valparaíso, Maule, O’Higgins, Ñuble, Los Lagos and Magallanes.
Upcoming opportunities
The third Impulso Inicial call is focused on entrepreneurs engaged in manual and artisanal trades – papermaking, goldsmithing, stamping, sublimation and handicrafts – and to apply, those interested must have a valid Social Household Registry card (RSH) and demonstrate at least six months of continuous operation.
The winners will receive machinery and/or semi-industrial tools so that they can professionalize their production processes, and personalized training in formalization, digital marketing, administration and costs to enhance business management.
Applications will be open until Monday, September 16, 2024 on the Foundation’s website: www.fundaiconluksic.cl