We turn complexity into performance and optionality.

A boutique strategic consulting and M&A advisory firm for Central American businesses. Two partners. A relational approach.

Built for the Central American market

We are a boutique strategic consulting and M&A advisory firm focused on the Central American market. We operate as a two-partner structure with a relational, not transactional, approach.

Our firm exists to resolve a central tension in the region's businesses: how to grow without losing identity, control, or the future — while building real, sustainable value over time.

Founded in 2016, Atelier Empresarial works with mid-market companies ranging from US$3M to US$25M in enterprise value, across Costa Rica, Guatemala, Panama and El Salvador. Our clients are owner-operators and general managers seeking serious advisory — not off-the-shelf frameworks.

Saber Crecer. Know How to Grow.

Growing isn't just selling more. It's building an organization that can sustain growth — with the structure, talent, processes, and culture needed to make that growth real and lasting. That's the north star behind every engagement we take on.

Principles

Strategic clarity

Every decision starts with a deep understanding of the business and its context. We don't offer generic solutions — we build specific diagnoses and plans for each company's reality.

Business accountability

We act with the same seriousness as if the business were our own. We get involved in execution, not just analysis. Our success is tied to our clients' success.

Decision maturity

We prioritize the long-term view over immediate results. We help companies make difficult decisions with a clear head and solid data.

Continuity and legacy

We build value that transcends day-to-day operations. We work so that each company ends up in a better position — whether it chooses organic growth or a transaction.

Founding Partners

Gustavo Guzmán — Founding Partner, Atelier Empresarial

Gustavo Guzmán

Founding Partner

Business leader with an MBA and over a decade of direct P&L responsibility in retail, fashion, and food companies with revenues from US$1M to US$5M+. Business architect with proven capacity in commercial development, corporate strategy, financial control, and multi-channel, multi-country operations management. Has led startups through turnarounds and high-growth phases. His leadership combines strategic vision with operational execution — always focused on sustainable results.

Carlos Zeledón — Founding Partner, Atelier Empresarial

Carlos Zeledón

Founding Partner

Senior Partner at Atelier Empresarial with over 8 years leading the strategy and commercial positioning practice. Expert in consumer strategy, shopper marketing and brand leadership. His career includes key roles in marketing and client development at organizations such as The Coca-Cola Company, where he led high-impact initiatives across Caribbean, Central and South American markets. Combines strategic vision with results-oriented execution.

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