Our Impact Philosophy
La Chispa was created to open doors for young Cuban women—to give them the structure, mentorship, and tools they need to build something of their own. In Cuba, nearly 70% of all jobs are government-based, and the median monthly income is just $16. Owning a small business can be one of the few ways to earn more, but women are largely shut out—despite making up 60% of university graduates, they own just 20% of small businesses.
The barriers are layered: limited access to capital, a lack of support for caregiving, and deeply rooted gender norms that keep women from stepping into power.
Our goal is simple but ambitious: to help our graduates more than double the national median income by the end of their first year ($35/month), and grow that to $100/month—six times the current average—within four years. We do this through hands-on mentorship, practical coaching, and ongoing community support.
We’re not just investing in businesses. We’re investing in women who are ready to lead.
Our Pillars
Coaching, Mentorship, and Workshops
La Chispa begins with sisterhood. Through workshops, mentorship, and creative coaching, young Cuban women learn to trust their voices, sharpen their ideas, and step into their potential. This isn’t charity- it’s strategic empowerment led by women who see each other fully.
Fan the Flame
Through our Fan the Flame initiative, donors are paired with a young woman to help supply her first set of tools—not money, but hair dryers, sewing machines, laptops, art supplies—whatever she needs to launch her dream. It’s personal. It’s practical. It’s power, placed directly in her hands.
Reinvestment in the Cuban Economy
La Chispa fuels circular economies by investing in Cuban women who hire, pay, and uplift one another. Our girls don’t just earn income—they keep resources flowing through local businesses, homes, and neighborhoods. What comes in, stays in. What stays, grows.
Contact us
Want to learn more about how you can support La Chispa? Let us know here!