Overview

BIG Ideas is a non-profit business incubator specialized in helping Guatemalan entrepreneurs launch their startups in diverse industries. Our focus is on providing entrepreneurs with the necessary tools, networks and resources to launch their businesses. Located at the first Technology Park in Guatemala, BIG Ideas is looking for entrepreneurs with innovative tech companies, or companies in other industries that have developed innovative processes. BIG Ideas is also constantly looking for mentors, consultants, potential investors, and others interested in contributing to this entrepreneurial community. OUR BEGINNINGS: BIG Ideas began two years ago as a pilot program financed by a $40,000 grant from IDB Youth and the Microsoft Unlimited Potential fund, which provided ten months of operating capital (the rest being financed by volunteer time, self-sustainability efforts, and in-kind contributions). The pilot program proved to be successful in facilitating the launch of new startups, all of which use innovative processes, have developed innovative technologies, and/or are finding ways do develop environmentally sustainable practices for their industries. The organization prepared 130 young entrepreneurs (both men and women, between the ages of 17 and 30) and a group of 20 women entrepreneurs (who are also mothers working in high-risk areas) during the pilot program. These entrepreneurs participated with 65 business ideas, of which more than twenty are operating and generating income. Over 40 people collaborated their skills and know-how during this period, helping the small internal team accomplish its objectives accordingly. Encouraged by these results, the organization (which formerly operated as a division of another non-profit for accounting and other administrative purposes) formalized legally and opened its offices at Campus Tecnológico 1, the first technology park being developed in Guatemala.