Powering a New Life: How E-bikes are Empowering Migrant Workers in Latin America

From Crisis to Opportunity: The Story of Luis Maldonado

Imagine celebrating your 50th birthday surrounded by your chosen family, not at home, but at the office where you received a life-changing loan. This was the reality for Luis Maldonado, a Venezuelan migrant in Bogotá, Colombia, thanks to Guajira, a startup providing e-bikes and financing to delivery workers.

Maldonado is one of over three million Venezuelans who have sought refuge in Colombia amidst their nation's ongoing political and economic turmoil. Leaving behind a career as a business manager, he joined the ranks of Rappi, Colombia's largest delivery platform, a common path for many migrants.

E-bikes: A Sustainable Solution for Deliveries and Livelihoods

E-bikes offer a powerful advantage for delivery drivers. Faster deliveries translate to more orders and higher earnings, all while reducing the physical strain and environmental impact compared to traditional bicycles or motorcycles. However, the upfront cost can be a barrier.

Recognizing this challenge, James Downer, an American entrepreneur, founded Roda in 2018, an organization focused on facilitating the energy transition in Latin America. Evolving from microloans for delivery vehicles, Roda birthed Guajira, a producer of Colombian-made e-bikes specifically targeting the needs of delivery drivers.

"This is something that solves people's needs, not only something that is eco-friendly," Downer states, highlighting the dual purpose of his venture. "I'm in love with this product."

Overcoming Resistance and Embracing Change

Initially, e-bikes faced resistance in Bogotá, a city dominated by motorcycles. However, the long-term economic benefits are undeniable. Guajira's e-bikes, priced at around $1,400, come with accessible financing options tailored to the needs of delivery workers, even those without traditional credit histories.

Guajira's calculations reveal that e-bike riders can earn up to 20% more than their motorcycle counterparts, despite potentially lower gross earnings, due to reduced expenses on fuel, taxes, and insurance.

A Ripple Effect of Positive Impact

Amador Nuñez, another Venezuelan Rappi driver, experienced the immediate impact of switching to an e-bike, seeing his daily earnings jump significantly. "Now I can go anywhere I want, go up any hill," he enthuses, conquering Bogotá's challenging terrain with ease.

Guajira's rapid growth, expanding from 42 bikes in 2024 to 32 in January 2025 alone, showcases the increasing demand. Their team, now 30 strong, prioritizes diversity, hiring immigrants who often provide invaluable assistance to clients navigating immigration paperwork.

The Broader Impact: Mobility, Community, and Support

Fernanda Rivera, a mobility expert with extensive experience in Mexico City, emphasizes the transformative power of bicycles, particularly for migrants. "For immigrants, a bike is something very noble – it is a tool that helps you get out of the difficult socioeconomic circle," she explains.

Organizations like Nippy further support delivery drivers with a range of benefits, including access to affordable phone plans, financing, telemedicine, safety courses, and community spaces. Nippy's chief commercial officer, Agustina Rosales, highlights the importance of the gig economy for migrant integration, providing a rapid avenue for income generation.

Both Guajira and Nippy are revolutionizing access to finance by tailoring their services to the unique needs of gig workers, helping them establish credit and achieve financial stability.

Beyond the financial benefits, these organizations foster a sense of community. For Luis Maldonado, celebrating his birthday at Guajira was a testament to the support and belonging he found within the e-bike community. "And I don’t even appear my age, I look 35,” he jokes. “That’s because of the bike!”