Technoserve

Well, it’s nice to back in Antigua. So, I woke up early this morning to look over some information on Technoserve. A nice man tapped me on the shoulder as I was sitting on the couch and asked, “Are you interested in Technoserve? I work for Technoserve!” Such was my introduction to Dr. Lionel Lopez, the country director for Technoserve Guatemala.

For anyone who doesn’t know, Technoserve is one of the world’s most admired NGO’s. They’re consistently recognized for developing innovative and effective solutions to poverty. I had visited their offices in Kenya and was excited to hear how their operations differed in Guatemala. So, after removing a few pictures from the wall, scavenging for chairs, and a couple cups of coffee (of course!), we were ready to go.

Dr.Lopez worked for McKinsey for over 20 years, so the language and method of describing Technoserve’s operations sounded like something we might hear in strategy class. They are focusing on two main areas: business plan competitions and developing bio-fuel production. This was surprising, since Technoserve had a lot of experience in the coffee industry in Tanzania (and Kenya, I think). Why weren’t they doing anything with coffee in Guatemala? It seems like a good choice, given the general unattractiveness of the coffee industry.

The biofuel project seems extremely interesting. Theya re helping producers to grow and cultivate jatropha plants, which can be used to make biofuel. My understanding is that there is no demand for biofuel from jatropha plants in Guatemala at the present, nor does there exist the capability to process the plants into biofuel, but Technoserve is hoping it can develop the industry. Very ambitious!

Dr. Lopez’ story is interesting. He has spent his entire career outside of Guatemala – mostly in Europe. He could be off making the big bucks, but instead he’s contributing his talents to building his country. I’m really impressed that he would give up so much to contribute. It’s this type of big-hairy goal and vision that is going to get Guatemala’s going. Very exciting!