How this Ecuadorian farm transforms lives with every rose sold

When buying roses from Ecuador Direct Roses, not only 140 people are giving work, it also contributes to their family and community. This proceeds from every petal sold from this Ecuadorian roses farm is directed to the Nantuk Organization, which supports indigenous communities in the Ecuadorian Amazon. In this article, Jose Antonio Acosta of Euador Direct Roses tells us more about this organization and the farm's efforts.

A legacy of social responsibility
Community support has been a guiding principle for Ecuador Direct Roses since its inception. Over thirty years ago, entrepreneurs Juan Carlos and Rosana embarked on a journey to establish a company that would create employment opportunities for the most vulnerable areas of their region. After carefully evaluating different sectors, they decided to establish their business in Burgay, a small town near Biblian that was severely impacted by unemployment and migration.

In 1995, their floricultural venture began, planting the first flowers that would go on to benefit not only the company's employees but also the broader Ecuadorian community. Over the years, Ecuador Direct Roses has contributed to job creation, environmental conservation, medical assistance for its employees, and financing for non-profit organizations.

Their commitment to giving back has been evident in their long-standing collaboration with the Rotary Club, where they have been active members for over 25 years. Juan Carlos himself has served as president for four years, significantly impacting the organization's outreach. Today, he is preparing to make a greater impact in other areas that will help the medicinal world in the city of Cuenca.

The Nantuk program
So what is the Nantuk program? "In more detail, the Nantuk program assigned a representative of Ecuador Direct to help and learn more about what this organization does. Here Joaquin was chosen to dive for 10 days in the deepest jungle up to a point that was on the border of Ecuador and Peru. On this visit they had to go with just the right amount of equipment, as any extra weight would complicate the mobilization between its natural swamps, rivers, flora and fauna. During these 10 days, workshops were held with the children, adults and educators. All the areas of health, education, nutrition and technology were successfully accomplished. Here them donated medicines to health centers, seeds to increase their food supply, we weighed the children and youth of the different communities and donated electronic devices such as cell phones and Starlinks. In terms of donations, more than 10,000 dollars were destined to these four communities. Not counting the monthly plan that is now being granted to them. This does not take into account the time to organize the program, the personnel sent and other external expenses to obtain licenses and vaccinations to visit these places. At the end of the day the amount becomes irrelevant but rather we were able to highlight this program as a success because we not only contributed with things but also involved the staff to experience the extreme situations that these people have to live. By handling all of this correctly and other additions this team of 9 volunteers were able to not only generate one more grain of sand but also bring love and smiles to these least attended communities of our planet.

© Ecuador Direct Roses

One of their latest projects
In the first days of 2025 a group of 9 volunteers went to assist 4 communities with donations in the areas of health, education, nutrition and technology in which, Ecuador Direct Roses contributed with two Starlink for the most vulnerable communities to have a communication point in case of emergency and to reinforce the educational theme with the teachers. "They use this tool to show them examples of the outside world helping in their education and leave everything set up for them to contact the outside world for any emergencies affecting their habitat". The Starlink accounts are linked to the company and are constantly monitored to ensure that they are used for the donated purposes. "We made a strategic alliance with Violin Rojo. An active volunteer dedicated to supporting more than 45 communities. They spend 10 months of the year inside supporting these communities to receive a dignified health and educational treatment."

Also, Nantuk recently extended its volunteer efforts to Rio Caoni School in Puerto Quito, where they worked with children on craft-making, sports, and nutrition. The initiative was met with enthusiasm from students, parents, and teachers, bringing smiles to many faces.

Looking ahead, the company is in discussions to replicate its Amazonian outreach program in other remote communities. "In our previous initiative, we supported four out of 93 communities in the Achuar region, but our goal is to expand their impact further."

How every flower purchase makes a difference
So, a portion of every flower sold by Ecuador Direct Roses supports not only the Nantuk organization but also numerous other social projects. "The company remains dedicated to investing in its community rather than increasing profit margins. This commitment ensures that customers not only receive the highest quality flowers but also contribute to meaningful social change with every purchase."

Spreading awareness
While Ecuador Direct Roses has communicated its community contributions via email and website updates, they recognize the need to amplify their outreach efforts. "Moving forward, we aim to provide clearer and more frequent updates to customers, highlighting the positive impact of their purchases." Currently, the company exports flowers to the United States and Canada, with plans to expand into other markets as long as it does not compromise their commitment to quality and service.

Future plans and continuous commitment
The company is currently gathering feedback from the communities they've supported to assess the effectiveness of their initiatives. "We aim to measure the long-term impact of introducing modern communication tools to isolated communities and ensure ongoing commitment from residents to sustain these projects." Ecuador Direct Roses plans to wait approximately nine months to have news if this way really generates a positive support to the community to move with next initiatives with the Ecuadorian amazonian world.

Ecuador Direct Roses invites its customers and supporters to follow their journey and engage with their community projects. Feedback, reviews, and participation in discussions on their platforms will help amplify their mission and ensure continued success in making a difference.

For more information:
Ecuador Direct Roses
www.ecuadordirectroses.com

Nantuk
https://www.instagram.com/nantuk.volunteer/

Violin Rojo
https://www.facebook.com/VIOLINROJOCIRCO/