Guatemala ASPROGUATE

ASPROGUATE, the Asociación Sostenible de Productores de Guatemala, is a
cooperative established in 2014 by 100 organic coffee producers across the
intersection of the Cobán, Acatenango, and Chimaltenango regions. The
cooperative was formed with a mission to promote sustainable development
among coffee producers and to provide access to international markets for their
high-quality, organically grown coffees. In 2016, they opened a central office in the
town of San Martín Jilotepeque.The cooperative's producers grow a range of
varieties, including Typica, Caturra, Catuaí, and Bourbon. Coffees are typically
processed using the Washed method.Today, ASPROGUATE has grown to consist of
over 1,900 smallholder farmers and has continued to expand on its mission to
support its community. Every month, workshops are offered to its members on
topics from producing fertilizers to erosion mitigation and other sustainable
agricultural practices. It also supports its members in starting side businesses from
clothing to home goods.Approximately 90% of ASPROGUATE's members belong to the indigenous Kaqchikel and Tz'utujil ethnic groups, with 55% of the producers
being women. The cooperative emphasizes gender equality and actively works to
reject discrimination, slavery, and child labor. Through social programs,
ASPROGUATE educates its members on these critical issues, fostering an inclusive
and equitable community.Through its goal of fostering long-term relationships
between producers and international buyers, the coop is able to maintain fair prices
for its members, which in turn supports communities where 85% rely completely on
agriculture for their income.Through its dedication to sustainability, quality, and
social responsibility, ASPROGUATE plays a vital role in enhancing the livelihoods of
its members and promoting the rich coffee heritage of Guatemala.