In 2014, Acumen Latin America (ALA) began investing in Colombia with the hypothesis that: impact-first capital could help rebuild the social fabric in rural, conflict-affected communities by addressing the root causes of poverty. Over the past decade, ALA has invested over $10 million in 19 businesses—mostly agribusinesses working in coffee, cacao, and produce—many of which are led by grassroots organizations with a deep commitment to community development.
To mark its 10-year milestone, ALA partnered with 60 Decibels to assess the results of this work. The findings are a powerful testament to the potential of long-term, community-focused investment in fragile settings.
50% of farmers supported by ALA-backed companies live in poverty, and 76% had no prior access to similar offerings.
83% of farmers report improvements in well-being, income, and decision-making power, while 67% say their broader communities have also become more economically prosperous, collaborative, and hopeful.the individual and at the community level along a wide range of impact themes.
Longer-tenured farmers report stronger gains in both household agency and financial outcomes.
49% of farmers feel better prepared for environmental disruptions, especially those who have adopted regenerative agricultural practices.
Women reported greater personal agency but fewer financial gains, highlighting the need for more gender-intentional strategies going forward.
These insights come at a critical time. As Colombia continues its long path toward reconciliation and Latin America faces mounting inequality and climate vulnerability, the role of private, impact-first capital has never been more urgent.
This report offers more than a retrospective—it provides a roadmap for how socially minded, for-profit enterprises can help restore dignity, foster resilience, and deliver real change in places too often overlooked by traditional finance and fading aid.
