Colombian Entrepreneur’s Sustainable Fashion Brand Thrives with Local Chamber Support – A Breaking News Story
Manizales, Caldas, Colombia – In a compelling story of entrepreneurial resilience and the power of local business support, Alejandra Pérez Estrada’s sustainable fashion brand, Queuva, is experiencing significant growth fueled by programs offered by the Manizales Chamber of Commerce by Caldas (CCMPC). This breaking news highlights the crucial role of regional chambers in fostering innovation and helping businesses navigate the complexities of the modern market, particularly for entrepreneurs returning to their home country after establishing ventures abroad.
From Mexico Back to Roots: A Journey of Reinvention
Pérez Estrada, a Colombian who previously built a company in Mexico, returned to her homeland seeking to re-establish her business. Facing the challenge of rebuilding a network from scratch, she turned to the CCMPC’s entrepreneurship and innovation route. “When he arrived, of course, being out of the country for many years, he had no contacts in the ecosystem,” explains Disney Cardona Henao, Professional of Entrepreneurship and Innovation at the CCMPC. “In the Chamber we received it on the entrepreneurship and innovation route. We begin to guide her, train her and to give her tools to consolidate her business initiative.”
The initial program provided crucial mentoring from experts across various disciplines. A pivotal moment came during a workshop focused on prototyping a minimum viable product. This led to a complete redesign of Queuva’s packaging, incorporating bamboo fabric and transforming the brand’s extensions for Bodys into a truly sustainable and ecologically sound product, poised to enter green markets.
Beyond Mentorship: A Network for Growth and Formalization
Queuva’s success isn’t solely attributed to initial mentorship. The CCMPC’s support extended to commercial antennas, facilitating connections with local, regional, and national actors. Participation in the Fashion Cluster and Manizales Confection programs opened doors to collaborations with institutions like Technoparque and prominent industry events such as Colombiamoda. This access to networks is a cornerstone of successful business development, often overlooked by entrepreneurs operating in isolation.
The Business Office within the CCMPC also provided essential assistance with practical aspects of business formalization, including obtaining bar codes, registering intellectual property, and mastering international negotiation models. These often-underestimated elements are vital for scaling a business and protecting its innovations.
The Power of Institutional Support: A Testimonial
“The programs offered by the Chamber have helped me identify opportunities, strengthen my weaknesses, connect with the business world and surround myself with strategic allies,” Pérez Estrada shares enthusiastically. “For any entrepreneur or entrepreneur, the institutional accompaniment that the Chamber offers is a true growth and learning platform that becomes invaluable.” Her story serves as a powerful example of how targeted support can unlock an entrepreneur’s potential.
Why This Matters: The Rise of Sustainable Fashion & Regional Economic Development
Queuva’s story isn’t just about one brand’s success; it reflects a broader trend towards sustainable and ethical fashion. Consumers are increasingly demanding transparency and eco-consciousness from the brands they support. Businesses like Queuva, prioritizing sustainability, are well-positioned to capitalize on this growing market. Furthermore, the CCMPC’s proactive approach demonstrates a model for regional economic development, focusing on nurturing local talent and fostering a supportive ecosystem for entrepreneurs.
For entrepreneurs eager to consolidate their initiatives and acquire essential business tools, the CCMPC’s entrepreneurship and innovation route is readily accessible. Click here to learn more and apply. The success of Queuva proves that with the right support, a vision for a sustainable future can blossom into a thriving business.
