J-PAL Latin America and the Caribbean

J-PAL Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC), based at Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, leads J-PAL’s work in the LAC region. J-PAL LAC conducts randomized evaluations, builds partnerships for evidence-informed policymaking, and helps partners scale up effective programs.

Our research team works with J-PAL's network of affiliated professors to measure the impact of social programs and policies in LAC. Through online and in-person courses, we train implementers, policymakers, donors, and advocates on how to generate and use rigorous evidence. Our policy team works to institutionalize this learning and disseminate research results to governments and other partners.

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Discover J-PAL's work in LAC

Map with Latin America and Caribbean region highlighted in green
Blog

J-PAL LAC at 15: A shared vision for creating a culture of evidence in LAC

J-PAL LAC was established in the Institute of Economics (IE) of UC Chile in 2009. Since then, J-PAL LAC’s expansion to more countries in the region has been largely thanks to our donors. Learn about some of our most recent partnerships with them.

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Blog

How can microcredit be more effective for Latin American entrepreneurs?

The need for more financing is one of the biggest barriers to small- and medium-sized enterprises’ growth. Microcredit programs can help entrepreneurs overcome financial constraints, providing access to resources to boost the growth of small businesses and alleviate poverty by increasing income...

Kids playing during school
Blog

Improving the quality of preschool education in Brazil

Bracell Foundation and J-PAL LAC launched a project, “Strengthening Learning and Development in Brazilian Preschools,” to identify, implement, and evaluate promising programs focused on improving the quality of education in preschools that have the potential to be scaled up. 

Dulce Colín, general director for gender equality at the Government of Mexico City.
Blog

Video interview: Partnering with the Government of Mexico City to prevent gender violence

Generating evidence to inform policies for gender equality in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) is a crucial priority for J-PAL LAC, and government partnerships are critical to achieving this goal. Since 2020, J-PAL LAC has been partnering with the Mexico City Women's Secretariat (SEMUJERES)...