Our projects

For generations, the Patiño Foundation has worked to build a stronger and more united Bolivia. Through our projects in education, paediatric health, agroecology and culture, we pass on valuable knowledge, innovate to address today’s challenges, and create lasting impact within local communities. Together, we carry forward a mission of transmission, renewal and excellence.

A history grounded in action

Where did our history begin? In 1931, with the visionary creation of the Patiño University Foundation. In 1825, at the time of Bolivian independence. Or much earlier, at the time of Tiwanaku, on the shores of Lake Titicaca. Our history transcends dates: it is built on transmission, renewed through innovation and affirmed by the tangible impact of each project. It is the story of a vision constantly reinvented, to serve Bolivia.

Highlights of our history

  • 1931

    1931

    Training for change

    From the outset, the Foundation responded to the vital need for qualified local professionals to compete internationally. The Patiño University Centre, the first of its kind in La Paz, fulfilled Simón's bold vision of creating a centre of excellence, knowledge and skills to put Bolivia on the global map of knowledge.
  • 1960

    1960

    Bolivia on the global stage

    By opening the Patiño University Centre in Geneva, the Foundation is expanding the horizons of Bolivia's brightest students. Scholarships are awarded, stimulating exchanges and cultural innovation. This European adventure fosters the emergence of Bolivian youth ready to positively influence the country's and the world's future.
  • 1968

    1968

    Health and culture: a living legacy

    Long before modern concerns, the Foundation anticipated the importance of a global approach: caring for people, caring for the land, and valuing Bolivia's cultural heritage. With the paediatric hospital, the Palacio Portales cultural centre in Cochabamba and the Pairumani agro-ecological farm, our commitment has become tangible, supportive and sustainable.
  • 1980

    1980

    The evidence of a transformative model

    The Patiño model proves to be a driving force for progress and innovation wherever it is implemented. In La Paz, the Espacio Patiño has become a hotbed of cultural experimentation. In Santa Cruz and Cochabamba, innovative agricultural projects are opening up new prospects, combining sustainability and efficiency to help Bolivia become more self-sufficient.
  • 2002

    2002

    Nurturing life, cultivating the future

    To help combat malnutrition, the Foundation takes concrete action: two open centres in Cochabamba (2002) and El Alto (2010). These facilities provide families with the essential knowledge they need to adopt a healthy and supportive diet, breaking the cycle of nutritional insecurity and ensuring sustainable development for the most vulnerable children.
  • 2015

    2015

    In the heart of cities

    Reaching the heart of cities to touch future generations: that's our commitment. The Foundation aims to combine personal well-being with collective fulfilment. Espacio Patiño in La Paz, a living theatre, and the health centre in Cochabamba are places for listening and sharing, fostering a community where individual expression flourishes in mutual respect.

Our visionary and humanist founders

  • Simón, builder of the future

    Simón, builder of the future

    Simón I. Patiño embodies the bold spirit and determination of Bolivia. From humble beginnings, he built a mining empire through hard work, vision and daring. His true legacy is his commitment to his country: investing in education, health and social progress. As a visionary, his legacy lives on through the work of the foundation that bears his name, which continues to transform the lives of thousands of Bolivians.

  • Albina, the generous heart

    Albina, the generous heart

    Albina Rodríguez embodies generosity in action. Alongside Simón, her personal commitment has made it possible to tangibly improve child health and bring comfort to the most disadvantaged. Her contribution to Bolivian society earned her the prestigious Condor de los Andes award in 1950. Even today, her benevolent spirit guides the Foundation’s initiatives towards a supportive and humane future.

A testament that transcends time, those who keep the legacy alive

A testament that transcends time, those who keep the legacy alive

Our heritage, a living treasure

Our heritage is not set in stone: it’s living, dynamic, open to innovation and cultural dialogue. Each emblematic site preserved by the Foundation bears witness to a history of expertise, exchange and experimentation. This shared heritage inspires our common future and upholds the identity of a Bolivia that is proud of its roots and focused on the future.

Our heritage, a living treasure

Our founding commitment

Our story began with a vision: that of Simón and Albina Patiño, two visionary philanthropists. Their living legacy guides our daily work towards the sustainable transformation of Bolivia. True to their commitment to social innovation and excellence, we renew this contract of engaged humanism every day, to build a prosperous, united and resilient society.

Our founding commitment

Together for an innovative Bolivia

Supporting the Patiño Foundation means investing in education, health, culture and agroecology. Your commitment becomes a lever for sustainable and shared impact. Join us in building a better future for Bolivia.

Together for an innovative Bolivia