Welcome to Cuso International where we share skills for better futures
At Cuso International, we believe in the transformative power of collaboration and action. For over six decades, we have partnered with communities worldwide to create sustainable change, fostering economic growth, social well-being, and resilience.
Our Global Impact
We work in partnership with governments, non-profits, and local organizations across the globe. From supporting small businesses to advancing equity and education, our initiatives have strengthened livelihoods and unlocked sustainable, economic opportunities.
Cuso Impact 2023 - 24
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Direct & Indirect Participants of our Programs
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Countries where we work
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Donors
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Volunteers
Our Mission: Sharing Skills for Better Futures
We work alongside communities to address the root causes of poverty and empower individuals to achieve lasting prosperity. Through our innovative programs, dedicated volunteers, and strong partnerships, we support communities with tools and resources to build brighter futures for everyone.
Local Partnerships — Global Reach
Dive into our work around the world. Click on the yellow markers to get started.
Belize
In-Country Since
2022
Active Projects
2
In Belize, we work to mainstream gender equality in government ministries and also in the environment sector through non-governmental organizations.
Dominica
In-Country Since
2022
Active Projects
2
In Dominica, we work to mainstream gender equality in government ministries and also in the environment sector through non-governmental organizations.
Grenada
In-Country Since
2022
Active Projects
2
In Grenada, we work to mainstream gender equality in government ministries and also in the environment sector through non-governmental organizations.
Guyana
In-Country Since
2022
Active Projects
2
In Guyana, we work to mainstream gender equality in government ministries and also in the environment sector through non-governmental organizations.
Jamaica
In-Country Since
1961
Active Projects
4
In Jamaica, we work to support local partner organizations by strengthening their internal capacity to deliver programmes and services to vulnerable groups. We focus on gender equality, sustainable economic development and climate action.
St.Lucia
In-Country Since
2022
Active Projects
2
In St. Lucia , we work to mainstream gender equality in government ministries and also in the environment sector through non-governmental organizations.
St.Vincent and the Grenadines
In-Country Since
2022
Active Projects
2
In St Vincent and the Grenadines, we work to mainstream gender equality in government ministries and also in the environment sector through non-governmental organizations.
Suriname
In-Country Since
2022
Active Projects
2
In Suriname, we work to mainstream gender equality in government ministries and also in the environment sector through non-governmental organizations.
Benin
In-Country Since
2014
Active Projects
1
In Benin, we aim to promote social inclusion and economic resilience through sustainable solutions, focusing on women and marginalized group.
Cameroon
In-Country Since
2014
Active Projects
1
In Cameroon, we provide Canadian expertise inclusively to the most marginalized populations to build a stronger future.
Canada (Northwest Territories)
In-Country Since
2015
Active Projects
From uplifting Indigenous communities to promoting sustainable development and improving local capacities, explore our work in the Northwest Territories.
Colombia
In-Country Since
2015
Active Projects
2
In Colombia, our main objective is to advance gender equity, inclusive employment, and the development of socioeconomic opportunities and sustainable livelihoods for vulnerable people.
Democratic Republic of the Congo
In-Country Since
2014
Active Projects
2
In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, we work to promote gender equality and social inclusion, economic inclusion and climate resilience. Our targets are mainly women and marginalized communities by implementing inclusive training and learning techniques that are favorable to communities such as LGBTQ+, people living with disabilities, people living with albinism etc.
Ethiopia
In-Country Since
2015
Active Projects
2
We aim to address power relations and social norms that create barriers in the advancement of women, girls and youth ( by transforming the capacity of relevant partners and stakeholders.)
Ecuador
In-Country Since
2022
Active Projects
0
In Ecuador we work to mainstream gender equality.
Honduras
In-Country Since
2015
Active Projects
2
In Honduras the main focus is inclusive economic development, climate change, risk management and the inclusion of vulnerable groups, the equality of women and people with disabilities.
Nigeria
In-Country Since
2014
Active Projects
2
Skills for sustainable livelihoods & economic inclusion for Nigerian refugees & host communities.
Peru
In-Country Since
1969
Active Projects
2
In Peru, we work to support local partner organizations by strengthening their internal capacity to deliver programmes and services to vulnerable groups including women, youth, People with Disabilities, Indigenous People, migrants, refugees and others. We focus on gender equality, and sustainable economic development and climate action.
Tanzania
In-Country Since
1963
Active Projects
1
In Tanzania, we work with partners to strengthen gender equality and social inclusion, improve economic resilience, and advance climate action.
Achievements & Commitments
Sustainable Prosperity
Our programs not only offer skills training – they also connect our participants to dignified jobs and/or entrepreneurial opportunities, leading to meaningful long-term employment and income stability benefiting generations to come.
Equity-Deserving Groups
All Cuso projects commit to empowering equity-deserving groups, individuals, and communities to contribute to society with dignity, creating opportunities for everyone to thrive and build a prosperous future. This includes, but is not limited to, women and girls, LGBTQI+, Indigenous Peoples, youth, people living with disabilities, people living in extreme poverty, refugees, and migrants.
Skilled Volunteer Programming
With more than 60 years of experience, Cuso expertly prepares, deploys, and supports skilled volunteers from Canada and around the globe. Evolving to meet real-time needs, we ensure every volunteer is equipped for success, wherever their journey takes them. As of January 2025, Cuso has mobilized more than 15,000 skilled volunteers.
Catalyzing Social Innovation
We foster innovation by investing in community-driven initiatives that prioritize local needs and are led by local actors, with the majority of funds going to local structures rather than staying with our organization.
Global Partnerships
Cuso extends its impact beyond development, fostering trade relations and sustainable partnerships between actors in Canada and abroad. By collaborating with organizations offering employment, funding and economic opportunities, we build global prosperity while showcasing Canada’s commitment to meaningful global engagement.
Guiding Communities Toward Prosperity
At the heart of our work is the belief that economic prosperity is attainable when people and communities are supported by inclusive systems. Our approach involves:
Our Volunteers: Agents of Change
Our volunteers play an essential role in strengthening local organizations and delivering impactful programs. They are carefully selected for their skills and knowledge, as well as their strengths in building relationships and partnerships. With expertise in diverse fields such as education, health, communications, finance, and economic development, they help build capacity and unlock potential.
Stories of Change
Every community we serve has a unique story of resilience and progress.
In Latin America, Maria turned her small business into a thriving enterprise with Cuso’s support. In East Africa, our youth entrepreneurship programs are creating new opportunities for young leaders.
Join Us in Making a Difference
Your support fuels our mission and helps communities thrive. Whether you become a volunteer, donate, or collaborate with us, your contribution advances sustainable solutions that change lives.
We can foster prosperity and build resilient communities that thrive for generations.