In the heart of Peru, Bitcoin is finding its way into the daily lives of citizens, not through corporate initiatives but via grassroots movements that emphasize financial independence. Leading this charge is Motiv Peru, a non-profit organization co-founded by Rich Swisher and Valentin Popescu. The organization has committed itself to helping underserved and unbanked communities utilize Bitcoin for essential needs, education, and local commerce.
What started in 2019 as a shoe donation program has transformed into a network encompassing approximately ten active areas, including hubs in Lima, Cusco, and Huanchaco, along with satellite programs in Tarapoto and Iquitos. This initiative now serves over 750 families each week. The Motiv team, comprising 50 members and numerous volunteers, is showcasing the potential of Bitcoin as a means for long-term empowerment in developing nations, rather than merely providing temporary foreign aid.
One of the most notable aspects of Motiv”s approach is its development of a non-profit strategy that fosters significant social impact while establishing Bitcoin circular economies, aligning with an early vision of “banking the unbanked.” The journey of Motiv began with the story of Jonathan, a seven-year-old orphan facing dire circumstances. After seeing his plight, Swisher and Popescu initiated the Happy Steps program to provide shoes to local children, recognizing that proper footwear could dramatically affect their ability to attend school.
As Motiv prepared for its next distribution of shoes, the COVID-19 pandemic struck, impacting both health and economic stability in the region. Faced with the urgent need for food instead of shoes, the duo sought alternative funding. This led to an unexpected partnership with a Bitcoin donor who agreed to finance the purchase of vital supplies, provided that transactions were conducted in Bitcoin.
This pivotal moment required the Motiv team to source vendors willing to accept Bitcoin. They encountered various challenges, including skepticism about cryptocurrency due to past scams in the country. The team decided to shift their focus from promoting Bitcoin as an investment to educating merchants about using it as a payment method. This pragmatic approach began to yield results, as local vendors started embracing Bitcoin.
Fast forward to 2026, Motiv Peru has matured into a well-established organization. With merchants now accepting Bitcoin, interest in the technology has spurred educational programs aimed at improving financial literacy and understanding of Bitcoin. The organization hosts classes from Monday to Saturday at 15 locations, impacting over 750 families and reaching thousands through events such as the Copa Bitcoin soccer tournament and educational fairs.
Overall, Motiv”s pioneering work is not just about distributing aid; it is about cultivating a sustainable ecosystem that empowers communities through Bitcoin, proving that cryptocurrency can play a transformative role in the developing world.
