Founded in 2010 in Quetzaltenango (Xela), Guatemala, Alterna is committed to developing the next generation of dynamic social entrepreneurs in Guatemala and beyond. They come from a variety of countries and professional backgrounds, but what they all have in common is the passion for empowering ordinary people to achieve extraordinary social and environmental impact. Their work is focused on three distinct areas, all of which are mutually reinforcing: cultivating local social entrepreneurs, incubating social ventures, and fostering and strengthening the social entrepreneurship ecosystem. 

SOCIAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP CULTIVATION PROGRAM

Alterna recognizes that social entrepreneurship is not a linear, uniform process; it occurs in multiple contexts and is subject to myriad conditions and challenges. They embrace the unique nature of each social entrepreneur and have designed their Cultivation Program to be responsive to the needs and goals of each entrepreneur.

ECOSYSTEM DEVELOPMENT

In addition to launching and cultivating enterprises that provide solutions to critical social and environmental challenges in the local community, Alterna is committed to developing an inclusive and dynamic ecosystem for social entrepreneurship. They are working to bridge the gap between local entrepreneurs and the resources that can enhance their impact by strengthening networks and leveraging partnerships with key institutions and organizations in the private, public, and academic sectors.