How Kantaya raises funds to transform education in Peru
In 20 years, Kantaya has raised $1M to transform education in Peru. Here are their key insights and strategies to achieve this success.
Kantaya: Education that changes lives
Twenty years ago, Yessica and Fabiola founded Kantaya with one goal: to provide access to quality education for children in vulnerable communities in Peru. They began by raising funds among friends and family who believed in their vision. That initial support was the launchpad for their journey.
Today, Kantaya has impacted over 3000 children, achieving remarkable results:
• 74% improved their reading comprehension.
• 70% developed mathematical skills.
Additionally, their Podera program has trained more than 600 women across 23 regions in Peru.
Testing, Learning and Growing
The Kantaya team tried everything: events, fairs, products, and partnerships. Not everything worked, but each attempt taught them what resonated most with their donors.
In their early grant applications, they lacked solid data but had a clear purpose and many stories to share. This helped them build trust with donors and strengthen their cause.
Today, they have diversified their income sources, combining individual donors, corporate partnerships, international funds, and a self-sustaining model that ensures stability.
3 Tips to Start Fundraising
1. Deliver What You Promise
Do what you say you’ll do and share your results. This builds trust with current donors and opens doors to new ones.
2. Diversify Your Income
Don’t rely on a single source. Combine individual donors, corporate collaborations, and revenue-generating models for recurring income.
3. Build Key Partnerships
Seek strategic collaborations to increase your visibility and credibility. For example, Kantaya works with the Ministry of Development and Social Inclusion to train mothers in the Cuna Más program.
Trust Your Purpose
Yessica shares a clear message: your organization’s mission is your greatest strength. Stay true to it and act with transparency.
“Find what works for you. Test, learn, and keep moving forward".
Fundraising is not a linear process, but perseverance and focus are the keys to progress.
Source: World Bank
Written by Alexandra Guerra.
