Supply Hope is researching and developing income-earning opportunities through micro-franchises for the under-employed in Managua, Nicaragua.  This research includes identifying community needs and assets, assessing new franchise opportunities and trends, and testing micro-franchises in the local market. We are continually collaborating with experts in the social enterprise and international development field, and meeting with business and nonprofit leaders in Nicaragua.

We are currently testing our first in-home micro-franchise called Mercado Fresco (translated “Fresh Market”). Mercado Fresco offers a fresh, affordable source of highly consumed, nutritious foods for lower income communities, sold through home-based stores. Since the stores are located in-home, they are excellant opportunities for single mothers or others who find it difficult to work outside of the home. Our products are high quality, processed and distributed safely, and are affordable for low income families.  With stores located in neighborhoods throughout Managua - and eventually throughout Nicaragua – Mercado Fresco makes quality, affordable food accessible to urban food-deserts and remote rural communities.  

Mercado Fresco micro-franchise operators will earn a living and become a primary channel for low-income families to purchase high quality and affordable food products.

80% of the population in Nicaragua is living below the poverty line (under $2 a day). Our stores provide an opportunity to increase income from less than $2 per day to approximately $7 a day! This is a huge step for the Test Store Operators towards meeting their families needs.

Problems are we solving:

In addition to providing income for a family through ownership in Mercado Fresco, this business protects low income families access to affordable, quality food.  We are essentially formalizing the distribution of essential foods that are sold primarily through informal markets in unsanitary ways and through distributors that do not offer fair market pricing.

Affordable

·         We eliminate the middle men

·         Provide volume price efficiencies

·         Packaged so it is affordable – cut to order, minimal packaging

Fresh and sanitary

·         Direct relationships with suppliers

·         Training on proper storage and handling

Accessible

·         Mercado Fresco stores located in every neighborhood, and in rural areas

·         Increase access to nutritious products such as yogurt

These franchises could also provide increased income to rural producers as we eliminate the monopolies of middle men and partner with cooperatives that pay a living wage.

Supply Hope is also providing appropriate training at their Business and Training Center. Due to extreme unemployment, many Nicaraguans start small businesses as a means to support their families yet they have had no training or experience running a business.  Our Center will provide much needed services including skills assessments, on-going business training, and marketing services.  

Our desire is to provide appropriate training and proven business models to equip trainees for long-term success and the provision of a livelihood for their family!

For additional information, please contact International Program Director Jodi McCall at jmccall@supplyhope.org to learn more.