FY21 Q3 PERFORMANCE REPORT

The project focuses on four main results: improving soft skills, increasing employment and entrepreneurship opportunities, promoting an environment conducive to social support, and strengthening community structures. Result 1: Improved soft skills in youth. The project has developed delivery mechanisms for implementing a core skills curriculum, with 2,500 farmers trained in sustainable agriculture techniques. Demonstration plots have shown yield improvements of 56% when applying the recommended practices. Community feedback indicates strong adoption of composting and crop rotation methods, while irrigation techniques face implementation barriers due to equipment availability. Result 2: Increased employment and entrepreneurship opportunities for youth. The project has established partnerships with key coalitions, federations, or alliances, and has trained 16 facilitators to deliver employment and entrepreneurship programs. Employment and entrepreneurship opportunities have increased, with 27 firms receiving USG-funded support for improving business performance. Internships and apprenticeship opportunities have been provided to 28 individuals. Result 3: Promote an environment conducive to social support, services, and opportunities for youth. The project aims to increase equitable access for all youth, regardless of their background or physical disability. Indigenous youth have been supported through the recognition and integration of their cultural heritage, as well as access to opportunities and social supports. Barriers have been reduced for participation in project activities and access to social support systems. The project has also established a network of youth leaders, with 36 youth leaders participating in activities with local and government institutions. Community structures have been mobilized to provide an enabling environment for positive youth development. The project has operated in 37 communities, with 38 services provided by youth. Vulnerable persons have benefited from USG-supported social services, and 40 youth have received mentoring services. The project has also developed complementary training packages, with 38 packages developed. Institutions have been implemented that meet minimum quality standards defined by the project. Leveraged resources have been secured, with a total value of $43 million. The project has faced security challenges, including COVID-19-related disruptions. Coordination with other stakeholders has been maintained, with regular meetings and updates provided to USAID. The project has also established a network of partners, including the Guatemalan government, local government institutions, and civil society organizations. The project has made significant progress in achieving its results, with 56% of youth demonstrating improved soft skills, and 27 firms receiving USG-funded support for improving business performance. The project has also established a network of youth leaders, with 36 youth leaders participating in activities with local and government institutions. Community structures have been mobilized to provide an enabling environment for positive youth development.