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Sector Modernization for Artisan Weavers in the Chiapas Highland (MATCH).
MATCH supported Mayan backstrap weavers in eleven municipalities of Los Altos, transforming their craft into a competitive economic activity benefiting over 300 women artisans and 2000 indirect beneficiaries in the highlands of Chiapas. The project established a raw materials bank, held product development workshops resulting in market-responsive products, and secured significant orders from Mexican and US buyers. Additionally, an entrepreneurial development initiative was launched in partnership with Tecnológico de Monterrey and Fundación Fundemex.
Key Achievements:
Established a raw materials bank in collaboration with Fundación Leon XIII, providing artisans access to high-quality, fairly priced materials.
Conducted product development workshops with design specialists, resulting in market-responsive products that preserve traditional motifs.
Secured significant orders from Mexican stores like Color Indio and Tierra Latina, and US marketer Abrazo Style for National Geographic.
Launched an entrepreneurial development initiative with Tecnológico de Monterrey and Fundación Fundemex, focusing on artisans in Pantelhó and Chenalhó.
Facilitated international market access through buyer visits, trade show participation, and links to upscale consumer markets.
Donor: W.K Kellogg Foundation
Start Date: February 2013
End Date: June 2015
Number of Beneficiaries: 348 Artisans
Training Hours: 278,400
Number of Businesses Supported: 44
