Cooperatives and producer associations linked to value chains have demonstrated a positive impact on the economic development in the communities where they exist.

USAID aims at increasing inclusive and sustainable economic development for small-scale producers by increasing the net income of small-scale producers’ organizations through value chains and market access, especially in the northern zone departments of Canindeyú, Amambay, Concepción, and San Pedro, which experience high poverty levels. 

Our program has a strong focus on the economic and social inclusion of vulnerable populations.  We work to empower women small-holders by increasing their participation and leadership in producer associations, and by creating business opportunities to diversify their incomes.  We also work to empower and increase the income of indigenous families.  We help improve their productivity, diversify their sources of income and promote their inclusion in value chains.  We also work with the government to ensure indigenous populations have access to government issued identification cards, which enable their access to basic public services and democratic participation.  Additionally, USAID/Paraguay has a small pilot project to promote the financial inclusion of low-income persons with disabilities and their family members.

Complementary to the above, our program seeks to strengthen the capacity of local and regional governments to promote long-term sustainable economic development.  We work with local-based organizations and local governments to guide and promote productive sector expansion, particularly in areas with high potential for inclusion of small-scale producers.

USAID also has a small pilot project to facilitate access to clean water in the department of Canindeyu, through an integrated, sustainable and community-led management model.  This pilot also works to strengthen the Paraguayan Water Councils Association (FEPAJUS) and a recently created Supply Center which will sell parts and supplies for water systems to benefit community water boards nationwide.

Finally, under a Global Development Alliance (GDA), we work with the national and local governments, environmental NGOs, and key private sector actors in the beef and soy sectors, to support the development and implementation of more environmentally sustainable production practices.  The goal is to reduce rates of deforestation and carbon emissions in the Chaco region.