APU Project
Promoting sustainable development and supporting the local economy in the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
Promoting sustainable development and supporting the local economy in the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
The Apu Project is a local-led initiative based in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, driven by community members. We focus on Andean agriculture and sustainable food systems, encouraging community economic development and social impact by facilitating local knowledge-building and knowledge-sharing.
The APU Project started in 2023 by creating La Huerta Botanic Garden, a traditional garden with native Andean plants. Currenlty, we have over 40 native plants, among medicial, fruits, vegetables, teas, and aromathic. In December 2023, we held our first Organic Produce Fair, which saw active participation from people of all ages and backgrounds. This initial event inspired us to open and schedule events aimed at facilitating local knowledge-building in the Sacred Valley.
We are currently focused on building the Minimum Viable Product (MVP) for APU APP, a mobile application designed to help small and medium-sized farmers manage and boost their harvests.
Adriana Apaza - Economist & Project Lead
Drexel University
Klisman Evangelista - Systems Engineer
Universidad Nacional Hermilio Valdizán
Anacel Ninapuma - Agricultural Engineer
Universidad Nacional San Antonio Abad del Cusco
In 2024, we conducted a comprehensive survey, both online and in person, engaging 120 participants from diverse communities across the Sacred Valley. To ensure accessibility and inclusivity, the survey was offered in both Spanish and Quechua. Our goal was to gain deeper insights into local perspectives on agriculture and the local economy, helping us better understand community needs and experiences in the Sacred Valley
Speak Quechua and Spanish
Live in Rural areas
Consider the main issue they struggle with is the lack of accesible information
We were able to obtain the following insights.
Most respondents (85%) expressed interest in organic farming practices as an alternative to traditional methods. This shows strong support for sustainable agriculture in the region.
About 72% of participants feel a stronger connection to traditional knowledge since joining The Apu Project.
Ninety percent (90%) of respondents agree that local economic development is vital for the community's growth and resilience.
The Sacred Valley has become a melting pot, fostering indigenous communities, Amerindian people, as well as tourists who have recently chosen to move here. Agriculture is primarily carried out by locals (indigenous communities, Amerindian people).3
Agriculture constitutes one of the primary sources of income for many families in the Sacred Valley. Crops such as maize and potatoes are staple foods in the region.
Current agricultural practices are labor-intensive and often lead to increased use of artificial fertilizers in the Sacred Valley. Moreover, there's a growing risk of wildfires due to climate change, leading to the displacement of indigenous farmers from their lands. There's also a high risk posed by economic and unstable political circumstances exacerbated by global warming. Additionally, there is limited use of technology contributing to the improvement of agricultural practices and accessibility for locals
In partnership with LA HUERTA Refugio, this urban garden initiative focuses on sustainable agriculture and community involvement.
Explore a amazing fruits trees that thrive in warm climates.
Learn about Maize known for being a staple in our region and its traditional uses.
Wander through our vibrant floral displays that change with each season.
Learn about plants known for their medicinal properties and traditional uses.
Discover unique plants adapted to dry, arid conditions.
Discover unique plants adapted to dry, arid conditions.
Spices color our world with vibrant flavors, enriching our dishes.
Garden to table in seconds!
Offering events and workshops in collaboration with LA HUERTA REFUGIO, we aim to foster a safe space for community building and knowledge exchange on sustainable agricultural practices.
An upcoming mobile app to assist local farmers with sustainable farming techniques and real-time agricultural data.
Launching soon: APU's own coffee and tea line, sourced from local organic farms and supporting sustainable agriculture.
We welcome all volunteers!! We just started and we are happy to start growing our community. As of now we are able to provide free housing (private room, shared bathroom) at our partner La Huerta Airbnb. (Wifi, hot shower, and other shared amenities) Please contact us at apuprojectperu@gmail.com or on our Social handles. So that we can schedule a meeting and find of how we can best match!
Connect with us on social media or send us an email: