Fundacion Chankuap

Fundación Chankuap – Recursos para el Futuro, established in 1996 in Wasakentsa, Ecuador, is dedicated to promoting sustainable development among indigenous communities, particularly the Achuar and Shuar peoples.

The foundation focuses on several key areas: institutional strengthening, education, agricultural production, natural resource management, product transformation, and commercialization.
One of its notable initiatives includes assisting communities in the sustainable harvesting and processing of natural products like peanuts, ginger, turmeric, and essential oils from plants such as ungurahua. These raw materials are transformed into value-added products, including cosmetics under the Ikiam brand, which encompasses items like lotions, shampoos, and soaps.

This approach not only enhances economic opportunities but also ensures the preservation of traditional knowledge and environmental stewardship.

The foundation operates a processing center in Macas, where raw materials from over 60 indigenous communities are collected and refined. Additionally, Fundación Chankuap runs a physical store offering organic beauty products and other natural goods.

Through these efforts, Fundación Chankuap empowers indigenous families to integrate into the global market while preserving their cultural heritage and promoting environmental sustainability.