Project Makers promotes community-based businesses in San Juan
A nonprofit in Puerto Rico is aiming to boost economic mobility in two working-class neighborhoods of San Juan by helping residents start and grow businesses.
Project Makers, an initiative of the nonprofit Oasis 360, offers training and mentorship to entrepreneurs in the 00923 and 00924 ZIP codes, home to more than 76,000 people. The program seeks to create jobs that offer stability, fair wages and a chance at upward mobility.
“This program recognizes the importance of having businesses in the community that generate quality jobs close to where people live,” said Alejandra Jiménez, the program’s chief operating officer.
Oasis 360, supported by the Platform for Social Impact, coordinates health, education and business services in 30 communities in the target ZIP codes. Project Makers is its business development arm and provides both aspiring and established entrepreneurs with support services.
“It’s an opportunity for low-income residents in the area to start a business that will eventually improve living conditions for their family and the entire community,” said Ángel Rolón, who oversees business support.
The current program includes eight virtual workshops, two in-person sessions and personalized mentorship on topics such as marketing, legal compliance, accounting and hiring. Residents and business owners in the area may apply en línea.
