Support Simon's Goal of Sustainable Woodwork

Help Me Build a Sustainable Woodworking Business in Panama!

Hello, my name is Simon Kohler, and I have been living in Panama for the past ten years. Throughout my life, I have worked in many different fields, but my two official professions are Concrete Builder and Media Designer, both backed by German degrees. For over 15 years, I worked as a freelance web developer, but about four years ago, I returned to my roots in craft and construction. This shift was

largely due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which changed the course of my career in unexpected ways.

During the pandemic, I was locked down for several months in Panama without internet access, which caused me to lose nearly all my clients. Additionally, the freelancing landscape changed significantly, with an influx of new freelancers flooding the market. Competition skyrocketed, and being 46 years old, I found that many agencies preferred younger candidates. Faced with these challenges, I decided to focus on a new path—one that allowed me to use my hands, creativity, and lifelong experience as a craftsman.

I started a small woodworking and handyman business here in Panama, which has kept me going, but the reality is that I struggle financially every month. Panama, especially the area of Boquete where I live, is not as inexpensive as many might think. Rent prices are high, and wages for skilled labor are shockingly low. The average hourly rate ranges from just $2.50 to $5.00, making it extremely difficult to save money and invest in better equipment.

Despite these hardships, I have conducted extensive research and hands-on testing with small wooden items, furniture, and decorations. I’ve discovered a strong local demand for handcrafted

cutting boards, wooden spoons, and other artisanal pieces. People appreciate the quality and uniqueness of my work, even though finding professional-grade tools in Panama is a challenge. I often

have to rely on creative workarounds to achieve the results I want.

One of my biggest discoveries has been the potential of laser engraving and cutting technology. A high-quality CO2 laser machine would allow me to expand my business dramatically by engraving

wood, glass, metal, acrylic, and leather. Additionally, these machines can cut various materials with precision, which would save me a tremendous amount of time and effort. With Panama’s abundance

of beautiful tropical woods, I could not only meet the demand for custom-engraved items locally but also produce high-quality products for export to Costa Rica, South America, and even the United States.

The challenge? Acquiring a professional laser engraver/cutter is financially out of reach for me at this time. Despite my best efforts, saving money under my current circumstances is nearly impossible. I

have been steadily improving my business, but my production capacity remains limited due to my lack of professional equipment and infrastructure. If I could purchase an xTool P2S 55W CO2 Laser

Cutter, it would be a game-changer for my future and my ability to create a sustainable business. This is where I need your help. I am raising $5,000 to buy this machine, which would allow me to take

my business to the next level. Your support would not only help me secure this essential equipment but also enable me to start saving money for personal necessities, including much-needed dental

implants that I have been postponing.

Moreover, this business has the potential to create jobs. Once I have the machine up and running, I plan to hire at least one local worker to assist me, providing employment opportunities in the community. I have already identified key markets where my products would be in demand, such as souvenirs for tourists, custom-engraved items for restaurants and businesses, and functional yet artistic wooden decor pieces for export.

Since Panama is not eligible for GoFundMe campaigns, my good friend John is setting up this fundraiser on my behalf. Once we reach our goal, he will withdraw the funds, purchase the laser cutter, and send it to me. This is a crucial step in making this dream a reality, and I am deeply grateful for his help.

Every contribution, big or small, brings me closer to my goal. By supporting this campaign, you are investing in a hardworking craftsman with a well-thought-out business plan. You are helping me

become self-sufficient, create jobs, and contribute to my local economy. Most importantly, you are giving me the tools I need to turn my passion into a sustainable livelihood.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your kindness, generosity, and belief in my vision. If you can’t donate, I completely understand, but please consider sharing this campaign with others who might be willing to help. Together, we can build something truly special!

With gratitude,

Simon Kohle