Quipu

Quipu is a social enterprise founded by Mercedes Bidart that aims to provide accessible and fair financial services to entrepreneurs who lack access to traditional banking. The organization focuses on offering alternatives to informal lending practices, such as the exploitative "gota a gota" loans prevalent in some regions, which often carry exorbitant interest rates and dangerous repayment conditions. Quipu's mission is to empower these entrepreneurs, enabling them to grow their businesses without being trapped in cycles of debt. Quipu is newsworthy as its founder, Mercedes Bidart, has been awarded the Princesa de Girona International Award in the CreaEmpresa category. This recognition highlights the organization's impact and innovative approach to addressing financial inclusion for marginalized business owners.