Associação de Agroturismo Acolhida na Colônia

Acolhendo Visitantes, Fortalecendo o Campo!

Implementing ecotourism on family farms in Santa Catarina

Santa Catarina has one of the highest percentages of family farms in the country. Due to most family farms facing threats to their sustainability, a rural exodus can occur, threatening the futures of communities that have become so small that they no longer can offer basic services such as education and healthcare, among others. The challenge therefore is creating jobs and generating income, especially for those who first migrate – youth and women.

Acolhida na Colônia promotes rural-urban ties through agrotourism and cultural exchanges, establishing fair trade relations and preserving the environment.

With support from BrazilFoundation, Acolhida na Colônia aims to:

• Develop, strengthen and expand ecotourism on family farms in Santa Catarina;
• Transform intangible riches such as culture, know-how and natural beauty into assets that generate employment, income and pride for a locality.

 IMPACT

• 25 municipalities benefited in Santa Catarina
• Income generation for 100 families
• 400 people active in ecotourism

“Through ecotourism we have seen people become interested in our work and our community.” – Valnério, farmer who has benefited from the project