The Community Economics program arose from lived experience in and among the indigenous communities of Oaxaca. According to government statistics, seventy-five (75%) of Oaxacan municipios (counties) lives in extreme poverty; they lack basic life necessities such as food, water, housing, health care, proper sanitation, etc.

Although Oaxaca is one of the poorest states in Mexico, it has a rich tradition of community organization. Community Economics uses this extensive experience as a foundation for its work.

Indigenous communities possess values, skills and capacities which permit them to create a range of projects and initiatives to improve their quality of life. Community Economics enhances these pre-existing strengths. We focus our contribution on assisting communities to create their own economic initiatives responding to their specific problems.

Over the last few years, EDUCA has accompanied diverse production and service organizations in the Coast, Southern Sierra and the Central Valleys of Oaxaca. At this time, we support 22 community based savings and loans associations, community retail stores and production cooperatives. Our combined efforts, EDUCA’s plus those of the Community-Based organizations, support and build local economies, a basic building block of a dignified life.