Microfinance and Financial Literacy Program
Empower micro-entrepreneurs in the Alajuela Province of Costa Rica by providing the financial tools and education necessary to foster sustainable economic growth and long-term business stability.
Project presentation
Objectives
Eradicate local poverty (SDG 1)
Enhance quality financial education (SDG 4)
Promote decent work and economic growth (SDG 8)
Foster innovation among micro-entrepreneurs
Stabilize small businesses in San Ramón and Naranjo
Transition informal businesses into structured enterprises
Tasks
Develop viable and sustainable business plans
Conduct workshops in financial literacy
Provide administrative and accounting support
Optimize internal financial processes for local partners
Assist with file management and efficiency measures
Teach basic accounting and budgeting to owners
Cultural context
Immerse yourself in a rich and authentic culture by experiencing local life firsthand. This experience is an invitation to open-mindedness, where every interaction is an opportunity to understand age-old traditions and forge deep human connections, all while respecting the customs and way of life of your hosts.
Accommodation and Meals
You will be staying with a host family in a safe and welcoming environment, allowing for total immersion. This package includes three daily meals prepared with fresh, local produce. It’s the perfect opportunity to discover traditional cuisine in a friendly atmosphere, while sharing in the daily life of your host family.
Transportation and accessibility
We coordinate your travel arrangements from the moment you arrive, with a personalized airport welcome and transfer to your work location. On a daily basis, we guide you to the best local transportation options or implement tailored solutions to ensure your mobility and safety throughout all your journeys.
Activities in the surrounding area
Outside of your work hours, the region offers a wealth of discoveries: hikes in nature, visits to historical sites, craft markets, or simply moments of relaxation. Our team will be happy to advise you on the best getaways to make the most of your free time and explore the hidden treasures of the surrounding area.
Typical day
08:00 AM – 09:00 AM: Breakfast and introductory meeting for the day.
09:30 AM – 12:00 PM: Developing business plans with micro-entrepreneurs.
12:00 PM – 01:00 PM: Lunch and socializing with other volunteers.
01:30 PM – 03:30 PM: Training in financial literacy and management workshops.
04:00 PM – 06:00 PM: Administration and accounting support at local organizations.
06:30 PM: Free time to explore, reflect, or rest.
Supervision and security
Airport reception
Upon your arrival, a member of our team will personally meet you at the terminal exit with a sign bearing your name. We will ensure your direct and secure transfer to your accommodation so that your arrival is completely stress-free, without any logistical worries from the very first moments.
Support
You will never be alone in your endeavor. Our local team is available 24/7 to answer your questions, guide you through your travels, and facilitate your daily integration. This constant support allows you to fully focus on the meaning and impact of your mission.
Orientation day
Your stay begins with a complete immersion. This key day covers the practical aspects of local life, cultural norms, transportation, and a detailed presentation of your volunteer project. It’s the perfect time to ask any questions and get to know the other team members.
Supervisors
Our coordinators are experienced and passionate professionals, experts in their region. They provide technical support for your missions, ensure your well-being, and act as mentors. Their role is to ensure that your contribution is as beneficial to you as it is to the local communities.
Safety measures
Your safety is our top priority. We implement rigorous protocols, regularly updated according to the local context, and maintain close contact with the authorities. Each volunteer receives a comprehensive briefing on preventative measures and has an emergency contact number available at all times.
Insurance and medical assistance
Each volunteer must have comprehensive coverage, including medical care and repatriation. If needed, we have a network of trusted local healthcare partners to ensure prompt and effective care. We will assist you with all administrative procedures related to your health.
Financial terms
The total cost of your participation in the programme is structured to ensure a complete, secure, and ethical experience. These fees cover all essential elements for your stay and the success of the project.
What is Included
The programme fees cover the following elements, allowing you to focus completely on your mission:
Secure accommodation in a host family ;
Arrival transfer and orientation ;
Direct contribution fees to the project for supplies and equipment ;
Daily supervision and mentoring by professional veterinarians and local project staff ;
24/7 support from the local coordination team in San Ramón and the emergency team ;
Detailed orientation session on safety, culture, and local logistics ;
3 meals a day
What is Not Included
The following expenses are the responsibility of the participant:
Travel: International flights to and from San José Airport (SJO) ;
Insurance: Travel, medical, and repatriation insurance (mandatory for participation) ;
Personal expenses (souvenirs, leisure activities, excursions) ;
Visas: Visa or entry permit fees, if required ;
Program Fees & Duration
Our pricing is transparent and based on the specific duration of your stay:
Min Stay (4 weeks): $1,144 ; 8 weeks: $2,288 ; 12 weeks: $3,291 ; 16 weeks: $4,388 ; 20 weeks: $5,485 ; 24 weeks: $5,808 ; 28 weeks: $6,776 ; 32 weeks: $7,744 ; 36 weeks: $8,712 ; 40 weeks: $9,680 ; 44 weeks: $10,648 ; 48 weeks: $11,616 ; Max Stay (50 weeks): $12,066
For durations not listed above, please contact our team for a custom quote.
Code of Conduct
By joining our missions, each volunteer commits to acting with integrity, compassion, and professionalism, strictly respecting the dignity and culture of the beneficiaries and the confidentiality of shared information. We promote an inclusive attitude free from all discrimination, responsible use of available resources, and full adherence to current safety protocols. This mutual commitment guarantees a lasting positive impact, harmonious collaboration within teams, and the protection of the vulnerable populations we support.