Guatemala, January 2024 – The FUNDEA Corporate Group, always attentive to external events that may have a positive or negative impact on the environment of various economic and productive sectors in Guatemala, and with a clear commitment to continuous improvement backed by a solid track record of over 32 years financing the agricultural and livestock sectors in the country, is proud to announce the successful development of the first Scientific Research Center in Guatemala focused on climate change adaptation and resilience.​

In line with its strategic vision for continuous productivity improvement, FUNDEA has partnered with SIUCOM, the leading research center in the measurement of rainfall, water and soil pH, and climate changes, based on IoT (Internet of Things) technology and focused on environmental parameter measurement.​

For some time, FUNDEA and SIUCOM have been effectively collaborating in the search for solutions to address environmental, climate, and social challenges, with a strong emphasis on SMART WATER USE. This contribution to society has proven to be a solid step toward creating opportunities for a more sustainable and resilient economy.

SIUCOM offers climate-smart technologies, cutting-edge rain gauges, and devices that collect real-time data 24/7, 365 days a year, providing accurate insight into precipitation patterns.​

In addition, the capability to measure water and soil pH, wind speed, CO2 levels, and soil moisture—combined with satellite-based climate alerts and, most importantly, correlated with BIG DATA held by FUNDEA Microfinance—enhances decision-making. Over its 32-year history, FUNDEA has financed farmers and micro and small business entrepreneurs across Guatemala, spanning diverse types of crops nationwide.​

Through the RapiFundea app, clients have access to valuable business and crop-related information such as agricultural product price volatility, plant diseases, and guidance on the use of fertilizers, pesticides, and insecticides. As a result, FUNDEA Corporate Group and SIUCOM provide farmers with an invaluable tool for planning and real-time data-driven decision-making, effectively saving costs and increasing productivity.

Mr. Hugo Villavicencio, Chairman of the Board of FUNDEA Corporate Group, stated:

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“With the implementation of the first Scientific Research Center, we are positive and proud to achieve our core objectives as a Group focused on IMPACT FINANCE. This initiative has allowed us to assemble a top-tier team of scientists and biologists specialized in environmental, food security, toxicological, and water issues, along with mathematicians developing analyses and algorithms correlated with the extensive data FUNDEA holds on small producers. This enables us to provide accurate, reliable, and timely information for the SMART USE OF WATER and its impact on crop productivity. We’ve also realized we can contribute to other economic sectors in the country—such as housing, industry, and commerce—by providing insights into water levels and contractions resulting from El Niño or La Niña effects.

FUNDEA Corporate Group and SIUCOM, with their vast experience in the agricultural sector, have deployed a network of over 1,000 rain gauges throughout the country, collecting data from more than 17,000 farmers and 43 crop varieties. Their continued collaboration reinforces FUNDEA’s commitment to impact finance, proactively addressing environmental and climate challenges. Both organizations aim to enhance operational efficiency, reduce costs, and optimize the supply chain. SIUCOM’s customized solutions align with FUNDEA’s vision of building a smarter, more sustainable world where precision and efficiency come together to face future challenges.​

This alliance is not merely a partnership—it is a shared effort and commitment that is already yielding significant results in building a sustainable future, where impact finance merges with climate-smart technology to create a more resilient and prosperous environment.​