My eyes instinctively widened when Hector Euceda told us he wants to create 2,000 jobs in the next 5 years to battle his country's dehumanizing underemployment woes. Even with his growing business, his accounting and business education, and his strong nationwide contacts, this will be a steep but inspiring challenge. Here is the progress he's already made in his business since Entrust's August visit:

Acting on Entrust advice, Hector instituted a bonus for employees who produce at least 24 pieces of furniture in 25 days. This has been effective in increasing production.

Acting on Entrust recommendations, Hector has included employee families in a few events (including company picnics with piñatas!). He believes this has improved employee morale and engagement.

Acting on several of Entrust's recommended changes (including hiring a production manager) has improved his cash flow, enabling him to hire another painter and buy much-needed equipment (without a loan!) for an additional painting station (pictured below). This in turn has solved the bottleneck at his painting station, allowing him to move his inventory quicker, which then freed up capital to reinvest.

Obviously, Hector is an eager learner and is quick to implement improvements in his business systems. That's a good start. To create 2,000 jobs, he'll need much more, including: substantial increase in his 15% Tegucigalpa market share, production of the complete array of home furnishings (first additions being dining tables and entertainment systems), increased production efficiency, a large sales force, new production facilities in major Honduran cities beginning with San Pedro Sula (and significant financing to do so). Pray as we help him chart a strategic plan and take the necessary steps. 

Will he reach his big, hairy, audacious goal? I can't say, but I'm confident he'll generate lots of jobs. You can help Hector and the other 8 businesses below by connecting us with experts in similar industries. Will YOU help Hector create 2,000 jobs in 5 years?!