The EIB manages a variety of regional technical assistance programmes to support financial inclusion beyond the European Union. One example is technical assistance for inclusive finance in the Caribbean. Launched in 2018, this programme was implemented by the Frankfurt School of Finance and Management and provided support to over 17 financial institutions in six countries. Stories from two entrepreneurs supported under the programme are shared below.
Dominican entrepreneurs: Héctor's story
Héctor Valdez, a farmer in Dajabon, Dominican Republic, raises cattle for milk and meat production. For years, he struggled with droughts that would stretch on for six to seven months. Héctor previously relied on water pumps that draw water from a nearby lake into a reservoir that helped irrigate his farm. However, this came at a high cost and was not environmentally friendly, as the pumps run on gasoline.
Dominican entrepreneurs: Julie’s story
Meet Julie Belliard, a passionate architect and small business owner in Santiago de los Caballeros, Dominican Republic. She makes gift boxes filled with handmade products and sells them online. Amidst the challenges posed by the pandemic, Julie recognised the immense value of her e-commerce expertise, especially for local artisans facing difficulties selling their handicrafts. She launched Yo Soy Local, an online marketplace that helps artisans sell products.