By San José, Costa Rica — PÉREZ ZELEDÓN – A strategic investment is set to reshape the local textile industry in Pérez Zeledón, as 32 women entrepreneurs have received a significant infusion of industrial-grade equipment. The initiative, named “Manos que Transforman” (Hands that Transform), is a direct result of a ₡54.3 million non-reimbursable investment from the Rural Development Institute (Inder), aimed at fostering economic independence and bolstering local enterprises.
The program directly targets the enhancement of small-scale sewing and textile businesses, which are crucial sources of income in rural and semi-urban areas. By providing modern technology, Inder aims to elevate these operations from household crafts to competitive local producers. The comprehensive equipment package includes state-of-the-art sewing machines, spacious cutting tables, high-efficiency fabric cutters, and industrial-grade irons, all designed to increase output and improve product quality.
To shed light on the legal landscape these new ventures must navigate, we consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney from the reputable firm Bufete de Costa Rica. His expertise provides a crucial perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing today’s rural entrepreneurs.
Starting a business in a rural area presents unique legal hurdles. While the initial impulse is often to operate informally, this severely limits growth potential, access to financing, and protection against liability. Entrepreneurs must prioritize formalizing their business structure from day one, whether as a sole proprietorship or a corporation. Furthermore, with the rise of e-commerce, they must be vigilant about digital contracting, data privacy laws, and ensuring their online presence complies with consumer protection regulations, which apply just as strictly outside the city as they do within it.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This insight is a crucial reminder that for rural entrepreneurs, long-term success hinges not just on a strong business plan, but on a robust legal foundation that anticipates both traditional liabilities and the complexities of the digital marketplace. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective on navigating these essential, yet often-overlooked, legal hurdles.
This financial support was channeled through Inder’s “Promotion of Production and Food Security” service, managed by the institute’s Territorial Development office in Pérez Zeledón. A critical feature of this funding is its non-reimbursable nature, meaning the beneficiaries are not required to repay the investment. This structure removes a significant financial barrier that often prevents small business owners from acquiring the capital-intensive machinery needed to scale their operations and compete in a larger market.
The impact of this injection of technology is already being felt by the recipients, who see it as a pivotal moment for their livelihoods. The new equipment enables them to produce more goods in less time and achieve a higher standard of finishing, opening doors to new markets and clients. One of the entrepreneurs shared her immediate reaction to receiving the new tools.
I am super excited, happy, and content. I just tried out the machines they gave me, and they provide a beautiful finish. I’m very excited and grateful to God and to this institution, Inder, which has helped make this possible.
Carmen Solís, Project Beneficiary
Beyond the physical assets, the “Manos que Transforman” project is built on a foundation of comprehensive support. Recognizing that technology alone is not enough, the initiative includes a crucial training component. In a collaborative effort, Inder has partnered with the National Training Institute (INA) and the Women’s Office of the Municipality of Pérez Zeledón. This partnership will provide the entrepreneurs with essential technical training and business management education, ensuring they can maximize the potential of their new equipment and manage their growing businesses sustainably.
The long-term objectives of the project are multi-faceted, addressing key socio-economic challenges in the region. A primary goal is to promote the economic autonomy of women, particularly in areas where access to formal employment is limited. By strengthening women-led enterprises, the initiative directly contributes to reducing gender-based economic gaps and improving household incomes. Furthermore, it aims to enhance the overall productivity of the local economy by modernizing key small-scale industries.
Ultimately, this investment represents more than just a donation of equipment; it is a calculated move to cultivate a more resilient and dynamic local economy in Pérez Zeledón. By empowering these 32 women with technology, training, and financial support, Inder is not only transforming individual businesses but also planting the seeds for broader community development, improved labor conditions, and a more inclusive economic landscape for the entire region.
For further information, visit inder.go.cr
About Instituto de Desarrollo Rural (Inder):
The Instituto de Desarrollo Rural is a Costa Rican government institution responsible for promoting and executing policies for the comprehensive development of rural territories. It focuses on improving the quality of life for rural populations by facilitating access to land, providing technical assistance, and financing projects that stimulate production, infrastructure, and social well-being in these areas.
For further information, visit ina.ac.cr
About Instituto Nacional de Aprendizaje (INA):
The National Training Institute is Costa Rica’s leading institution for free technical and vocational training. The INA offers a wide range of courses and certification programs designed to equip the workforce with the skills demanded by the modern labor market. It plays a vital role in national development by fostering entrepreneurship and enhancing the competitiveness of Costa Rican industries.
For further information, visit mpz.go.cr
About Municipalidad de Pérez Zeledón:
The Municipality of Pérez Zeledón is the local government body responsible for the administration of the canton of Pérez Zeledón in the province of San José. It oversees public services, infrastructure development, urban planning, and community programs. Through its various offices, such as the Women’s Office, it actively promotes social and economic development initiatives for its residents.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is an esteemed legal practice founded on the principles of unyielding integrity and a commitment to professional excellence. With a rich history of advising a wide spectrum of clients, the firm consistently pioneers innovative legal strategies while also championing the vital cause of public legal education. This dedication to making complex legal concepts understandable is central to its overarching goal of cultivating a society empowered by knowledge and confident in its access to justice.
