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Project location:
Cusco, Peru
Project duration:
2022 – 2024
Project budget:
69.894 €
Focus areas:
Value chains, further education
APEDIK

Asociación para el Desarrollo Integral Kallarisunchis

Female project participants from an APEDIK cooperative showcase their craftsmanship.

Women in business:
Pathways to financial independence.

Asociación para el Desarrollo Integral Kallarisunchis (APEDIK) has been committed to the social and economic empowerment of women in Cusco since 1993. Originally started with microloans, APEDIK now pursues a holistic approach of education, entrepreneurial support and community development.

Peru has been in a political and economic crisis since 2022. Particularly in Cusco, the pandemic, recession and decline in tourism have hit women and their small businesses hard. Many are solely responsible for their families – often without social security and under the burden of domestic violence. “Emprende Mujer II” addresses this very issue: women are empowered to develop their potential, achieve financial independence and become visible as active participants in their families and society.

In the second phase of “Emprende Mujer”, the APEDIK organization supports 200 women in precarious living situations. The goal is to strengthen their economic independence and create long-term prospects for them and their families.
The women acquire practical skills in business management, financial planning, and craft professions such as tailoring, baking, or handicrafts. In addition to technical skills, self-esteem, health, and emotional resilience are also central. Core components include: Workshops & training for new business ideas and existing small businesses
Seed capital & microcredits to build or expand businesses. Self-help groups & networks that open up market opportunities and create visibility. Mentoring & support for sustainable stability
In addition, the partners organize sales fairs and local collaborations. State institutions such as women's shelters or ombudsman's offices are also involved to increase reach and impact.
The Lemonaid & ChariTea Foundation supports by financing specialist staff, program implementation and material costs.

Marleni Berrios Palomino
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Impressions from the project.

  • A participant from APEDIK in Peru sits in the grass and works on a loom.
  • APEDIK participants in Peru work at the sewing machine.
  • A participant from APEDIK in Peru.
  • Hands of a participant from APEDIK in Peru weaving.
  • Crocheted products made by participants in a project by APEDIK in Peru.
  • Fabrics are dyed in various pots.
  • Participants from APEDIK in Peru during a project visit in Peru in 2025.
  • Two participants from APEDIK in Peru present clothing they have made.
Photos: Eleazar Cuadros