As we were looking for opportunities to collaborate in Perú, we were introduced to ID Bioforest; an organization founded by entrepreneurs from the district of Incahuasi, Lambayeque. Located in the Northern Andes of Perú (altitude between 9,500 and 12,100 feet above sea level), the organization developed technology and processes to improve the artisanal methods being used to harvest and dry edible wild mushrooms which grow in a symbiotic relationship with pine roots in the forests of Incahuasi.
At the time at which we began partnering with ID Bioforest, we found the organization in the process of transferring their developed technology to a group of Incahuasi farmers from the community of Piedra Parada. . This association, organized as the Mycological Association SIMBIOSIS PERÚ,is formed by 31 active partners—mostly women—who are small-scale producers of dehydrated mushrooms.—At the time of our introduction, Simbiosis had secured a grant from the Peruvian government (AGROIDEAS) to finance 80% of their business plan, but needed to fundraise for the remaining 20% in order for the government to release funds. Our Foundation provided the 20% matching funds as a revenue-based investment, and thus we embarked into a very enriching relationship with ID Bioforest / Simbiosis.
The Milla Goñi Family Foundation officers visit Incahuasi – July 2022
Processing, drying, and packing plant in Ferreñafe.
Find out more about our partnership and Simbiosis here
Last Updated on June 21, 2023 by mariaamilla