A. M. 
Banco CUSCATLAN, through its CUSCATLAN Crece Contigo platform, and Bridge for Billions announced the launch of an innovative five-month incubation program for entrepreneurs in the tourism sector in El Salvador.
The program is aimed at Salvadorans over 18 years of age with internet access and the availability to dedicate 6 to 8 hours daily for 4 to 5 months. It will begin on march 1st through the digital platform of Bridge for Billions, a global company focused on strengthening entrepreneurial ecosystems, democratizing opportunities, and promoting economic development. All information about this program is available at www.cuscatlancrececontigo.com
“Tourism is one of the most powerful drivers of El Salvador’s economic development, and this program is directly committed to strengthening it. At Banco CUSCATLAN, we believe in the potential of micro-entrepreneurs in the tourism sector who, with the right training and financial inclusion, can scale up and maximize their impact on our country. We are incubating more than just businesses: we are strengthening companies, so they are more sustainable, generate more jobs, and create a significant ripple effect on local economies”, said Ximena Robin, Corporate Relations and Sustainability manager at Banco CUSCATLAN.
Participating entrepreneurs must belong to one of these four areas: lodging, transportation, and mobility; experiences and activities, including tour guides, surf schools, and camps; convenience stores, local brands, and services such as craft workshops; and food, beverages, and local lifestyle, such as bars, pupuserías, restaurants, and other businesses in the sector.
Over the five months, participants will develop their business plan step by step using a practical, action-learning methodology. They will address key topics such as target market, value proposition, financial model, business strategy, and impact, with guidance from specialized mentors.
In total, 30 entrepreneurs will be paired with 30 expert mentors in tourism and business, who will guide them in individual sessions to validate, challenge, and strengthen their ideas. Additionally, networking opportunities will be created to enhance the practical application of the program’s content.
Throughout the program, participants will progress through eight modules that integrate theory, practical examples, and additional resources to facilitate strategic decision-making and the design of competitive, profitable tourism businesses aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals.
“The program also includes three sessions with experts from Banco CUSCATLAN to promote the responsible use of personal finances separate from business cash flow, as well as the CUSCATLAN Crece Contigo platform as an ally in the growth and professionalization of ventures. Participants will also have access to the global Bridge for Billions community, an international network of founders that offers networking opportunities, collaboration, and ongoing support”, Robin said.
This initiative seeks to accelerate the creation and consolidation of sustainable tourism businesses, contributing to economic development and job creation in the country.
To ensure rigorous monitoring, the incubation management team will prepare monthly progress reports. At the program’s conclusion, a Demo Day will be held where the finalist projects will be presented to strategic partners, potential investors, and the media. Certificates of completion will be awarded to the entrepreneurs, and the three best projects will receive seed capital of $15,000, $10,000, and $5,000.
Additionally, monitoring is planned for up to two years after the program’s completion to evaluate its real impact on the salvadoran tourism ecosystem.
With this program, Banco CUSCATLAN and Bridge for Billions reinforce their commitment to the growth of the tourism sector and to providing comprehensive support to entrepreneurs seeking to transform their ideas into scalable businesses that generate employment and social, cultural, and environmental impact.
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