On August 20, 2025, the Banco de Alimentos de Quito (BAQ) Playful Lab was filled with creativity, collaboration, and purpose. As part of the ECOACTIVO Project – Innovation for All, an Ideation and Speed Mentoring Workshop was held to support 45 entrepreneurs in vulnerable situations, many of whom are people in contexts of human mobility and BAQ volunteers.
During the day, participants worked on eight sustainable business ideas that leverage the resources rescued and transformed by the Food Bank. These included the production of fruit vinegars and liqueurs, natural cosmetics, vegetable snacks, and even sewing initiatives using recycled uniforms. These proposals aim not only to generate income but also to provide creative solutions to environmental and social challenges.
Learning in Community: Speed Mentoring
One of the most enriching moments of the workshop was the speed mentoring session, where experts from various organizations provided personalized feedback to the entrepreneurs. Partners included representatives from IMPAQTO, Conquito, UDLA, Universidad Politécnica Nacional, CUSI, Rikolto, and others.
Thanks to their guidance, the teams were able to refine their business models and prepare for the next stage: prototyping their ideas. This technical support allowed them to translate dreams into concrete steps toward viable, innovative, and sustainable ventures.
Beyond Training: Inclusion and Autonomy
The ECOACTIVO Project, a joint initiative by UNHCR and the Banco de Alimentos de Quito, seeks to generate economic autonomy and new opportunities for people in vulnerable conditions. Activities like this workshop are key because they:
- Foster innovation and sustainability.
- Promote social and productive inclusion.
- Create an environment of collaboration and mutual support between entrepreneurs and mentors.
Impact with Purpose
The impact of the Ideation and Speed Mentoring Workshop goes beyond the projects presented: it strengthens entrepreneurs’ confidence, builds community, and demonstrates that it is possible to turn challenges into opportunities.
At IMPAQTO, we are proud to be part of initiatives that connect people, organizations, and knowledge to drive solutions that create a positive and lasting impact on society.
