At ANDE’s Annual Conference, FUNDES showcased how small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) can transform global procurement. CEO Elfid Torres highlighted the unique challenges and opportunities facing Latin American businesses, emphasizing how inclusive supply chains can create shared value for all.
At the ANDE Global Annual Conference, FUNDES delivered a compelling presentation on the power of diverse supply chains, highlighting how small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) can be the key to transforming global procurement. Elfid Torres, CEO of FUNDES, captivated the audience with his insights into the unique challenges and opportunities facing Latin American businesses.
Torres’ presentation tackled the issue of supply chain diversity with a focus on the importance of integrating marginalized communities into corporate value chains. By doing so, companies can not only enhance their efficiency but also create shared value models that uplift entire communities. Through success stories and robust data, Torres demonstrated how inclusive procurement practices can unlock significant economic potential across Latin America and beyond.
The Latin American Perspective on Supply Chain Diversity
With over 25 years of experience, Torres has made a name for himself by fostering collaboration between corporate partners, philanthropists, and impact investors to drive regional growth. His work with FUNDES over the past decade has provided SMEs with the tools to become vital contributors to global supply chains, making a strong case for the economic benefits of diversity and inclusion.
During the presentation, Torres emphasized the human element of supply chain transformation. He recounted stories of small businesses in Latin America that have thrived after being integrated into corporate procurement networks, underscoring the tangible impact of these shifts. For many of these SMEs, such opportunities can be life-changing, opening the door to markets that were previously inaccessible.
The Road Ahead: Opportunities for Growth
FUNDES is not stopping at supply chain integration. Through its venture studio, Fundamental, co-founded by Torres, the organization is developing impact-driven startups that tackle the specific challenges facing SMEs in Latin America. By nurturing innovation at the intersection of business and social impact, FUNDES is leading the way toward more inclusive and resilient supply chains on a global scale.
Torres’ presentation left the audience with a clear takeaway: diversity in supply chains is not just a moral imperative—it’s an economic one. As companies continue to look for ways to enhance their procurement strategies, the inclusion of SMEs, particularly from underserved communities, represents a powerful lever for sustainable growth and lasting impact.
By weaving human stories with strategic insights, Torres reminded attendees that behind every successful supply chain is a network of people working to create a better future for their communities. In this way, FUNDES’ approach not only promotes business efficiency but also contributes to a more equitable global economy.
For businesses looking to innovate and grow, the path forward is clear: embracing supply chain diversity isn’t just good for communities—it’s good for business.