The saying “not all heroes wear capes” is an ancient popular expression that has been heard in family gatherings or conversations among friends more than once. When we talk about superheroes, our minds often picture a muscular figure in a tight suit with a long cape on a mission to save the world. However, the phrase reminds us that true heroism lies in flesh-and-blood individuals with remarkable stories of personal growth.
In our society, there are many people who fall into this category, and undoubtedly, one of them is the entrepreneur. It’s not always about finding an incredible product or creating a big company. Through entrepreneurship or a business venture, significant contributions can be made that positively impact a family and/or a community.
This is a common trait among the entrepreneurs participating in the Impulso Chileno program of the Luksic Foundation. On this Wednesday, the official welcome was extended to the 250 new winners of the sixth edition, who, after going through an extensive selection process – among more than 24,000 applicants – were chosen to receive comprehensive support to boost their businesses through funding, training, and mentoring by experts.
“We are very happy to welcome you to Impulso Chileno, a program that we are extremely proud of for its results and the beautiful community that has formed. As a Foundation, we believe that education is the key for each of you to move forward with your capabilities, and that’s why we will support you so that you have personal and business tools to continue growing,” said Isabella Luksic, the general manager of the Luksic Foundation, during the ceremony.
At the event, Cristián Schalper, director of the Entrepreneurship area of the Foundation, explained in detail about the program’s development, relevant dates, and fund delivery regulations. Alejandra Canessa and José Tessada, representatives of the Simón de Cirene Corporation and the UC School of Management, were also present to delve into the academic support that Impulso Chileno will provide.
The winners will undergo an academic semester with professors from the Catholic University in subjects such as digital marketing, financial accounting, and administration. Additionally, they will be accompanied by a mentor from the Simón de Cirene mentor network or executives from Luksic Group companies, selected according to each individual’s profile and needs.
Felipe Barra, the winner of the fifth edition and owner of Rosalía Cervecería in the Valparaíso Region, shared his experience and words of encouragement with the winners. “I invite you to take advantage of this tremendous opportunity. The training provided me with a solid knowledge base, and thanks to my mentor, I was able to align my business and focus on what’s important. I managed to generate new sales channels, boosting them, and succeeded in positioning myself in the local market. The experience was tremendous, and I hope everyone empowers themselves in this process and participates actively,” commented the entrepreneur.
The winners will receive funding (up to $5 million pesos) and will begin their academic support in March, concluding the program in August of this year.
