Madeleine and Jesus are a hardworking couple with big goals. Like many migrants, they moved to Mexico to start a new life and build something for their family. But running a small business isn’t easy, and they needed a little help to take things to the next level.
When Madeleine joined our five-week course for migrant entrepreneurs, she had a small printing shop. The shop offered complex printing services for local businesses, but it wasn’t enough to provide for her family. She and her husband, Jesus, knew they needed to do more to grow their business and make it successful.
Learning to Dream Bigger
During the course, Madeleine learned practical skills to grow her business, like how to offer new services and manage finances better. With IDEAS by their side, she and Jesus decided to add catering services to their printing shop. That’s how CenterKrea was created— a business that combines advanced printing with catering for events.
But there was a big challenge. Catering meant delivering food, and they didn’t have a car. Madeleine knew that without reliable transportation, they couldn’t make this new part of the business work. That’s when IDEAS stepped in.
Getting the Help They Needed
IDEAS helped Madeleine negotiate her first business loan in six years. The loan allowed her and Jesus to buy a car—a simple but crucial tool for their growing business. It wasn’t easy, though. The interest rate was high, and they were nervous about taking on debt. But with IDEAS’ support, they felt confident it was the right move.
This wasn’t just a win for Madeleine and Jesus—it was a breakthrough for migrant entrepreneurs in Mexico. IDEAS worked with the lender to approve loans for migrants for the first time ever. The lender’s national credit director even visited CenterKrea to see their hard work in action. Thanks to this loan, Madeleine and Jesus are already planning their next steps for growth.
Why Their Story Matters
Madeleine and Jesus are proof that with the right help, struggling families can change their circumstances for the better. Their story is about more than just building a business— it’s about hope, resilience, and the power of opportunity. IDEAS’ training didn’t just teach them business skills; it gave them the confidence to try something new and the tools to succeed.
Madeleine is so grateful for the support she received. In her one-minute testimonial, her excitement is clear—even if you don’t understand Spanish, you can see the pride and joy on her face. It’s a reminder of how much IDEAS means to families like hers.
You Can Help Families Like Theirs
Madeleine and Jesus’ journey shows how IDEAS is changing lives. By providing free training, helping families access loans, and advocating for migrant entrepreneurs, we’re giving people the chance to succeed. When families like theirs thrive, they create jobs, support their communities, and build brighter futures.
We can’t do it without you. Your donations make all of this possible—whether it’s cash, stocks, or other contributions. Every gift helps more families like Madeleine and Jesus grow their businesses and achieve their dreams.
Let’s keep making a difference, together. One family, one business, one dream at a time.
Be Part of the Change
At IDEAS, we’re committed to empowering more families like Madeleine and Jesus’s to overcome barriers and achieve their dreams.
Your support makes stories like Madeleine and Jesus’s possible. Join us in transforming lives—one business at a time.