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ASPROGUATE

ASPROGUATE, the Asociación Sostenible de Productores de Guatemala, is a cooperative established in 2014 by 100 organic coffee producers from regions including Cobán, Acatenango, and Chimaltenango. The cooperative's mission is to promote sustainable development among small coffee producers and to provide access to international markets for their high-quality, organically grown coffees.

Approximately 90% of ASPROGUATE's members belong to the indigenous Kaqchikel and Tz'utujil ethnic groups, with 55% of the producers being women. The cooperative emphasizes gender equality and actively works to reject discrimination, slavery, and child labor. Through social programs, ASPROGUATE educates its members on these critical issues, fostering an inclusive and equitable community.

ASPROGUATE's member farms are situated at elevations ranging from 1,100 to 2,200 meters above sea level, primarily in the Acatenango, Atitlán, and San Martín Jilotepeque regions. These high-altitude environments, combined with rich volcanic soils, provide ideal conditions for cultivating exceptional coffee. The cooperative's producers grow a variety of Arabica coffee plants, including Typica, Caturra, Catuaí, and Bourbon, all processed using the washed method to enhance their distinct flavor profiles.

Since its inception, ASPROGUATE has grown to include over 1,900 smallholder farmers. The cooperative offers its members monthly workshops on organic farming techniques, such as producing fertilizers, fungicides, and insecticides on their farms. Additionally, ASPROGUATE provides training in erosion mitigation, shade cover management, and other sustainable agricultural practices. By fostering long-term relationships between producers and international buyers, the cooperative ensures fair prices for its members, supporting the economic stability of communities where 85% of producers rely entirely on agriculture for their income.

Through its dedication to sustainability, quality, and social responsibility, ASPROGUATE plays a vital role in enhancing the livelihoods of its members and promoting the rich coffee heritage of Guatemala