renacimiento mixe: a lifelife for dairy farmers in oaxaca

Thirteen years ago, 840 cattle raisers across 39 cooperatives in the Mixe region of Oaxaca came together to form Renacimiento Mixe—a cooperative designed to provide financial inclusion and stability for Indigenous communities. Over that time, and with the support of a government-backed loan program, the organization disbursed nearly $6 million in loans, helping farmers sustain their livelihoods while supporting economic development in communities with high migration rates.

But suddenly, that support was cut without warning. These hardworking farmers were left in a precarious position. Without access to financing, they couldn’t afford livestock feed, maintain their herds, or continue production. Many were at risk of losing their farms and their livelihoods.

To keep supporting its members, Renacimiento Mixe needed more funding—more than what The Reciprocity Fund typically provides.

​That's where we stepped in. With co-participation from one of our investors, The Reciprocity Fund extended a $200,000 loan--double our standard maximum. This funding ensures farmers can keep their businesses alive and continue their centuries-old dairy farming tradition.
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For these entrepreneurs and their families, this isn’t just about financing. It’s about preserving a way of life, ensuring their independence, and securing a stable future for their families.

​Renacimiento Mixe is proof that when communities unite, they can overcome even the toughest challenges. Share this story on LinkedIn to celebrate their resilience and the power of community-driven solutions.