Since 2010, Guatemala has been one of the 19 countries considered “Megadiverse.” The conservation of this valuable natural and cultural heritage largely depends on Guatemala’s 334 protected areas, which cover 32% of the national territory. This important network of protected spaces includes the country’s top tourist attractions, with four of Guatemala’s five main tourist destinations located within protected areas.
To harness this significant potential, the IMPULSA Program was launched in 2015, aiming to enhance the growth capacities of entrepreneurs and small to medium-sized enterprises whose work promotes sustainable tourism in protected areas. Through the program's methodology, 20 to 25 entrepreneurs and businesses are selected to participate in various workshops and events, where they receive specialized advisory services, gain access to high-level business connections, receive support in finding commercial partners, and have the opportunity to access seed capital.
To be selected for the IMPULSA INGUAT Program, a set of well-defined sustainable tourism criteria is established to ensure the sustainability and positive impact of the projects. These criteria include the necessity of community participation, cultural respect, and strengthening of local communities to guarantee inclusive growth; alignment with conservation objectives of the protected area, environmental responsibility, and the use of clean energy to ensure that the project is environmentally friendly; and the requirement that the project provides positive experiences for both visitors and hosts, grounded in respect for human rights, fostering cultural exchange and understanding.
In this way, the program aims to promote the conservation of protected natural areas while encouraging innovation in the sustainable tourism industry as a tool for economic growth and the development of Guatemala as a leading tourism destination.
The first edition of the IMPULSA Program was launched in 2015 in the Western Highlands region and has expanded nationwide since 2016. In 2017, INGUAT officially adopted the program and has since led its implementation, with a special focus on the priority destinations outlined in the Sustainable Tourism Master Plan (2015-2025). Currently in its fifth edition, the program has supported more than 80 entrepreneurs from various regions across the country.
In 2018, the program was officially registered as a brand, becoming the "IMPULSA INGUAT Program."
Through this initiative, Guatemala has trained numerous entrepreneurs and businesses to develop sustainable tourism projects within protected areas and priority destinations, fostering a renewed appreciation for these natural spaces.
Ultimately, this project has enabled the development of profitable and sustainable business ideas, which have also served as a valuable source of employment for nearby communities. Additionally, the IMPULSA INGUAT Program mandates that a portion of the generated benefits be allocated to the protection of these areas, achieving significant results in the preservation of both tangible and intangible natural and cultural heritage.
All these initiatives have contributed to the revaluation and increased awareness of the Guatemalan Protected Areas System, while also strengthening the capacities of entrepreneurs and local communities. This serves as a great example of how tourism can drive inclusive growth while respecting the environment in which it develops.
Below is an infographic showcasing the results of the fourth edition of the IMPULSA INGUAT Program.
A continuación se presenta infografía sobre los resultados de la cuarta edición del Programa IMPULSA INGUAT:
