Small Business Development Specialist in Costa Rica

Job description

We are looking for U.S. citizens who want to be a part of something bigger and are willing to go the distance to make a difference. Is that you?

In more than 60 countries, Peace Corps Volunteers are putting their purpose, passion, and skills to work in partnership with welcoming host communities – growing, teaching, learning, and making change together.

As a Peace Corps Volunteer, you'll live and work alongside community members on locally prioritized projects, receiving a stipend and other support as you immerse yourself in a new culture. You’ll build relationships, exchange knowledge, and help transform lives for generations.

About the project

Entrepreneurs-in-training and small business owners in Costa Rica are looking to build the skills needed to successfully launch or grow their social enterprises.

Despite the country’s notable progress in social security, health care, and access to education, many communities—particularly those outside the Central Valley—continue to face localized poverty, high unemployment, and limited access to economic resources. Rural development associations, which serve as the first tier of community‑driven development, often lack the strategic planning, organizational management, and project design skills needed to guide communities toward more effective resource allocation and sustainable economic growth. In addition, women and youth in these communities are disproportionately affected by these economic challenges due to lack of transportation, time, and fewer opportunities to develop relevant skills.

As a Small Business Development Specialist, you will train community members—particularly youth and women—on topics ranging from business planning and product design to financial management and marketing. Alongside your counterparts, you will help aspiring entrepreneurs gain the confidence and competencies needed to succeed. Your collective efforts will improve individual livelihoods, reduce poverty, and promote sustainable development.

Learn more about what Volunteers do in country by visiting our Costa Rica project page.