For 28 years, Claudia has tirelessly run her small business: importing and distributing bed linens in her community in Guatemala City. Her shop is open from 7 in the morning until 5 in the evening, every day — even during the holidays. So when the pandemic struck, and many of her customers were unable to visit her store, she had to pivot quickly. Thanks to the support of Accion partner Fundación Génesis Empresarial, Claudia and other small business owners have access to the digital tools and financial support they need to build stable futures.

“Some banks have too many requirements,” she said. “However, Génesis has been more accessible. During this pandemic, I was also able to create accounts on Instagram and Facebook to approach those customers who are afraid to leave their house. Also, I was able to make payments to different companies and transfers at the bank. It has been one of the best tools to increase my sales and reach new customers.” Watch Claudia’s story and read more here.