What’s the story: In four short years, Leidy Soto grew her single-product business into an international exporter of a whole range of Mexican handcrafted goods.
"I knew Mexicans abroad longed for their country's handcrafts, but I didn't know how to ship them ... until UPS showed me," said Leidy, founder of Papel Picado Fiesta Mexicana. "Everything changed after I saw a UPS promotion on Facebook. I connected with a sales representative who showed me how to be an exporter."
Why it matters: The Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean says small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) generate more than 60% of jobs in Latin America. And exporting is key to helping SMBs grow.
UPS helps founders like Leidy reach international markets with programs like Proudly Unstoppable, offering discounted rates and access to training opportunities.
Rapid growth: Leidy created her artisanal business to have flexibility and to spend more time with her son. She began by offering one product – papel picado – made by cutting elaborate designs into sheets of tissue paper used to decorate altars. Now she also sells all kinds of handmade products from dolls to bags and so much more.
Since Leidy started exporting with UPS a year ago, her business has increased 120%. “I was thrilled to see her business grow. I believe any entrepreneur can learn how to export – they just need to call me,” said Daniella Leon, UPS inside sales representative.
Read about more small business exporters from Latin America:
- Chica Bean is a small business owned by women in Guatemala delivering their premium coffee to the world.
- Laudería Ramírez makes prized instruments for mariachi players in Mexico and abroad.