Colombian chocolate manufacturer Cordillera Chocolate is expanding its Atenea women’s empowerment programme to help more women cocoa farmers develop technical skills, build businesses and improve their livelihoods. The initiative, launched in 2023, has already supported more than 200 graduates and is now preparing to reach additional cocoa-growing communities.
The next phase will begin in January 2027, with two training groups operating simultaneously in Colombia’s Magdalena and Cesar regions. Around six cocoa-farming associations are expected to participate in the 12–14-month programme, which will cover chocolate processing, entrepreneurship, financial management, leadership and sustainable farming practices.
The expansion follows the graduation of more than 100 women cocoa farmers from the programme’s second phase in Córdoba earlier this year. Participants received 376 hours of training covering chocolate production, business development, financial education and sustainable cocoa cultivation. The programme also helped establish eight business ventures, giving participants opportunities to earn additional income from value-added chocolate products.
Before launching the next phase, Cordillera is consulting women farmers and local communities to understand their requirements and design training that addresses practical challenges. Jorge León, Sustainability Manager at Cordillera Chocolate, emphasised that the programme must reflect the needs and circumstances of the women participating.
The initiative is being implemented in partnership with Compañía Nacional de Chocolates, supported by organisations including Colombia’s National Learning Service (SENA) and Développement International Desjardins (DID).
Beyond improving farming knowledge, Atenea aims to strengthen women’s participation in business decisions, encourage entrepreneurship and create additional income opportunities within Colombia’s cocoa industry. The expansion reflects Cordillera’s broader commitment to responsible cocoa sourcing, rural development and a more inclusive chocolate supply chain.