Community Business Development
by El Terreno
Program Overview
Small-scale farmers and entrepreneurs around Guaranda earn little from their products due to intermediaries, unstable prices, and reliance on chemicals. Weak cooperatives, expensive credit, and lack of business skills limit their ability to improve incomes and negotiate better terms. Migration of young people further weakens local enterprise.
As a volunteer or intern in the Community Business Development placement, you will support local producers in strengthening cooperatives, improving value chains, and developing new opportunities, such as community tourism and value-added processing of traditional products like chochos (lupin beans). You will provide basic business training and help build more resilient community enterprises.
This practical internship gives you valuable experience in community economic development and entrepreneurship while helping break cycles of poverty in the rural Ecuadorian Andes.
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Jump to the full breakdown of dates, costs, eligibility, and more.
Program Highlights
What's Included
Quick Details
- 5-8 Weeks
- 3-6 Months
- 9-12 Weeks
- Summer
- Business
- Development
- Sustainable Development
- Business
- Community Centers
- Community Development
Updated Jun 15, 2026
Program Details
Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know
Locations
- Guaranda, Ecuador
Available Terms / Availability
- Years Offered
- Year Round
Eligible Nationalities
- All Nationalities
- This Program is also open to Couples, Families, Group
Education Levels & Language
- Language
- English
- Spanish
- Education
- University Freshman (1st Year)
- University Sophomore (2nd Year)
- University Junior (3rd Year)
- University Senior (4th Year)
- University 5th Year or More
Accommodation Options
- Dormitory
- Home-stays
Application Procedures
- Online Application
- Phone/Video Interview
Age Requirement
18+
Duration
- 5-8 Weeks
- 3-6 Months
- 9-12 Weeks
- Summer
- Winter
- Spring
- 1-3 Months
- Fall
Starts At
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FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
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How much does the Community Business Development program cost?
The cost of the Community Business Development placement is $250 per week.
What is the duration of this placement?
The Community Business Development placement lasts a minimum of 4 weeks.
Who can apply for the Community Business Development program?
Open to interns and volunteers, the Community Business Development program is for university students, recent graduates, and professionals from around the world.
What kind of attitude do you look for in interns and volunteers?
As an organization committed to a community-based approach, we search for ethically minded participants who share our vision for a more vibrant, prosperous, and sustainable world. An ideal participant is passionate, proactive, able to meet deadlines, and takes pride in their work — all while desiring to step outside of their comfort zone, build authentic relationships, and become a member of our international community.
Is it safe to stay in Guaranda and Atandahua?
Yes! El Terreno is based in a peaceful rural community where people know and support each other. The region is considered very safe, and Atandahua even has its own local police station. There have been no security incidents involving our interns or community members since our start in 2021. We also maintain close partnerships with local authorities and provide 24/7 on-site support to ensure all participants feel safe and welcome.
Recognitions & Awards
Awards and accreditations earned by this provider
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