Local Business & Remote Workers in Agaete

Agaete, a municipality in the north of Gran Canaria, has fully grasped the growth and development opportunities presented by remote workers for the local community. This locale has witnessed the revival of abandoned or underutilized businesses thanks to the activity generated by these temporary residents.

A clear example is the Agaete Business Association (AEGA). In this interview, its president, Yazmina Nicham, shares how creating synergies with the international community of remote workers established in the area has benefited them.

"We've had several groups visit my soap shop, and the experiences have been very positive. I especially value what I've been able to learn from them; it's been an exchange of experiences and business ideas. I also have a rural house, and more digital nomads are visiting it. They have enriched the village." Mónica Rodríguez - Owner

When and why was the Agaete Business Association formed, and who are its members?

AEGA was revived thanks to the collaboration and drive of Repeople. This company, specializing in remote workers, transformed a hotel in Agaete into the first coliving space for this segment in this northern part of Gran Canaria, "El Cabo Coliving & Retreats."

We were invited to the meetings they held at this establishment. The goal of these meetings was to integrate their project into the entire local ecosystem of businesses and involve the residents. This is how the association was reactivated after several inactive years... new opportunities were arising.

After several evenings of meetings, dialogues, and debates, we weren't achieving much, just getting to know the other entrepreneurs in the municipality, who are not few but are eager to see the municipality grow and be taken more into account.

As a result, we rolled up our sleeves and created the new Board of Directors, of which I have been a member since April. We made gradual progress and learned along the way, but thanks to our perseverance, we managed to activate it, something I am very proud of and grateful for having been trusted with.

I also want to thank FENORTE, the Federation of Entrepreneurs of the North, because without them, we wouldn't have succeeded.

The association is composed of both new and old entrepreneurs from the municipality, spanning all sectors, all with the desire for our products and work to be recognized.

‍

What connection do you have with international or national remote workers who temporarily reside in the municipality?

Personally, I've had the privilege of some of them coming here to get to know us, and they have also contributed to purchasing our products because we have a local brand and other island and national brands.

"The arrival of telecommuters brings a breath of fresh air and innovation to the municipality." Texiade Santana - Graphic Designer

What has this new type of visitor meant for the residents and businesses in the area?

From my point of view or experience, they are contributing to giving visibility to our businesses because they are hyperconnected profiles who always have some evaluation of what they consume. Moreover, they promote us within the international community of remote workers on the island.

What we are clear about is that we need to further develop the infrastructure of businesses in the town. These visitors have the potential to help local businesses and motivate residents; we would all learn from each other.

‍

How does the municipality benefit from these professionals?

It benefits by expanding nationally and internationally and promoting us in one way or another. We want the municipality to grow and become a tourist attraction while preserving the rural essence that characterizes Agaete.

"The experiences we've had with telecommuters living temporarily in the municipality have been very positive. They are people who take a keen interest in local products, and we've organized many visits for them to our estate. They are regulars at our restaurant. Furthermore, they are highly connected digitally and provide us with excellent promotion."
‍Víctor Lugo Jorge - Manager

Are you developing any initiatives to attract or consolidate these temporary residents?

I think there is still much to be done in Agaete, but it's true that we are on the path. From our association, AEGA, we are working to make it happen as soon as possible.

‍

What more could be done?

From my point of view, more businesses should open in the municipality, young people should be encouraged to start their own ventures, there should be more training, bureaucracy should not put too many obstacles in our way, and everything should be more intuitive and straightforward. Also, promoting culture and nightlife, as most of the time we find all the local establishments closed at night.

‍

What businesses have benefited from their arrival? Any particular stories?

I believe that hotels, vacation rentals, and the hospitality sector, in general, have benefited. Smaller businesses in other sectors are somewhat less benefited, of course, as when people come to work, their consumption is less than when they are on vacation.

‍