I am so excited to share this blog, written by Daniel Moncayo about his experience in Guatemala this summer! Enjoy!
This afternoon I made my radio debut on ' Stereo 100' down here in Xela, Guatemala. I never thought I'd be interviewed in Spanish . . . in Guatemala . . . on the topic of an appropriate technology business plan competition, but . . . the way things are working out during this summer internship . . . why should I be surprised?
I'm having a great time in Guatemala working for an NGO called AIDG (The Appropriate Infrastructure Development Group)! AIDG researches and develops sustainable infrastructure solutions such as solar water heaters, biodigestors, and micro-hydro power stations, and then incubates local businesses that market and sell the technologies.
The field of 'appropriate technology' is fascinating and it's exciting to think about it from an entrepreneurial perspective; especially its application in an international development context. In case you are not familiar, allow me to share a bit about what I've learned so far about a couple of appropriate technologies.
Biodigestors, for example, are like small storage tanks filled with organic waste such as vegetable scraps and animal excrement that produce methane gas and effluent (a liquid fertilizer). The methane can be used to power stoves and lights in rural areas that lack access to utility infrastructure. The effluent is a rich and hearty fertilizer for crops or gardening.
AIDG developed the technology for low-cost solar water heaters, and a local incubated business manufactures and sells the heaters. They consist of sheets of glass over black galvanized tubing in a large panel connected to a reservoir. The sun generates enough heat for comfortable showers at night or in the morning.
Finally, another exciting technology is the Rocket Stove. Briefly, this is a wood-burning stove that utilizes a more efficient combustion chamber than traditional stoves. The Rocket Stove offers local Guatemalans several benefits including: time saved, fewer respiratory problems, and money saved since the wood burns more efficiently. You can learn more about these and other appropriate technologies, along with AIDG's business incubation strategy on AIDG's website - www.aidg.org
The majority of my summer internship is focused on the development and coordination of an appropriate technology business plan competition called GuateVerde . Check out our new website at: www.guateverde.com to learn more about it. In addition to developing publicity and website content, I am giving public presentations on the contest and I am helping to develop all-day entrepreneurial workshops. The Leeds MBA is definitely coming in handy as I develop the curriculum for the all-day workshops. In fact, the training course will teach future entrepreneurs about finance, marketing, business plans, and management and operations - topics I've become quite familiar with during Business School!
I feel inspired by my internship with AIDG because it provides exposure to creative and sustainable infrastructure ideas in a context where contamination is rampant, rivers are polluted, and trash is tossed through the windows of passing 'chicken buses.' I see a lot of potential for innovative ideas that are both profitable and sustainable. I also recognize the latent potential of local entrepreneurs who are accustomed to running small businesses such as liquor stores and internet cafes. I'm curious to see how these entrepreneurs will transfer their enthusiasm and determination into 'green' ideas that make a positive impact on the local communities.
I look forward to reporting more about the GuateVerde Business Plan Competition and other aspects of life in Guatemala as the summer progresses. Until next time. ¡Hasta Pronto!
best regards