We are open to investments in almost any industry, with the possible exception of capital-intensive industries, such as infrastructure or large energy generation projects. We also try to avoid enterprises where the State has an important role, either as client or regulator.
Apart from those caveats, we are open to pretty much everything. When deciding on new start-ups, we look for three factors:
The industry must be meaningful
Central America comprises small economies; if we invest in a niche industry, the potential upside will not justify our time. This would not apply to export-oriented industries, altho.
The industry must have some market failure
In general, Central America is a business environment with inefficient competitors and outdated business models. But there are exceptions, industries with very aggressive and efficient players, like textiles for export, fast food, or consumer credit. We look for easy victories rather than glorious battles and possible defeats.
We must have a competitive advantage
This is usually the skills and knowledge of the people who will run the business but, it could also come from the platforms provided by other existing ventures. For example, the private schools leverage the 600.000 customers in the fidelity program of our pharmacies in Honduras.