Economic Development Projects

   H.O.P.E.’s role in economic development is to support the local economy by fostering and funding sustainable business ventures operated by Haitians. Our objective is to promote ventures that lead to employment for the local community while providing needed products and services. We work in conjunction with community groups and local agencies to assist with business plans, new technologies, and start up funding. By using a creative investment and incentive model, we strive to ensure the ongoing self-sufficiency and viability of these ventures. Key successes to date include:

• Rice and Corn Mill – In 2002, H.O.P.E. supported the local peasant organization, MODEIB, to provide funding for this much needed local facility to mill their crops. Prior to the start up of the mill, local farmers relied upon a mill more than two hours away. This project is operated by MODEIB and is now not only self-sustaining but also generates a small income for the operators.
  
  
• Community Bank Facility – H.O.P.E. assisted the community in the development of a local bank to fund and support Borgne.
  
  
• Fisherman’s Cooperative – H.O.P.E. provided support and funding for a locally initiated fisherman’s co-op. Key objectives are to provide local sources of food and improve the community’s ability to manage this natural resource.
  
  
• Women's Groups - Extreme poverty often limits the options open to women. Without alternatives, many enter child-bearing at a very early age and have limited choices in self-development, education and careers. H.O.P.E. volunteers work in solidarity with local women's groups to offer assistance and financial support to develop alternative solutions.
  
  
• Bakery - This project, initiated in 2005 with start-up funding and support from H.O.P.E. enables the remote mountain village of Robin, to produce bread for local needs and sell the surplus at the TiBouk market. This bakery will become a sustainable economic venture once it is in full operation. It will provide jobs for several local residents as well as generating funds for other needed local projects in the future.