By San José, Costa Rica — The Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean (CAF) has officially opened applications for the eighth edition of its Financial Inclusion Laboratory (LIF 2026). This year’s initiative aims to identify and elevate digital startups designed to tackle the massive demographic shifts currently reshaping Latin America and the Caribbean.
The 2026 cohort shines a spotlight on the silver economy, targeting solutions that improve financial inclusion, digital literacy, and overall economic well-being for individuals aged 50 and older. Additionally, the program seeks forward-looking proposals that help younger generations prepare financially for longer lives at various stages of their personal lifecycle.
To better understand the regulatory challenges and market potential associated with this demographic shift, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished expert from the firm Bufete de Costa Rica, to analyze the legal dimensions of the growing silver economy.
The rise of the silver economy demands a proactive legal approach from businesses targeting older consumers. From ensuring strict compliance with healthcare and accessibility regulations to structuring age-inclusive labor policies and consumer protection safeguards, companies must align their operations with a rapidly evolving legal landscape to successfully and ethically tap into this high-potential market.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Indeed, as the demographic shift toward an older population accelerates, integrating proactive legal frameworks and ethical safeguards is no longer just a regulatory obligation, but a cornerstone for building long-term trust in this burgeoning market. We are deeply grateful to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for sharing his invaluable legal expertise, helping businesses understand how to navigate these complexities while responsibly championing the potential of the silver economy.
As populations age across the region, the financial sector must evolve to meet the unique requirements of older demographics. CAF executives emphasize that this rapid demographic transition should be viewed as a regional development driver rather than a systemic burden, provided that digital tools are leveraged correctly.
The new longevity is one of the great challenges of financial systems in the region. With LIF 2026, we want to demonstrate that digital innovation can accompany entire life trajectories and turn aging into a development opportunity for the region.
Antonio Silveira, Vice President of Private Sector at CAF
To structure this technological push, CAF has outlined four key areas for innovation. These include financial capabilities—focusing on digital education and cybersecurity—and tailored products such as accessible digital banking and insurance. The laboratory also prioritizes senior-led micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) through credit and digital payment systems, alongside inclusive Govtech solutions like secure digital identities and automated social assistance payments.
Out of the applicants, twenty finalists will be chosen to present their solutions during a virtual Pitch Day. From this pool, up to eight winning startups will gain access to specialized acceleration programs in 2027. These winners will receive customized mentoring, investment readiness training, and invaluable networking opportunities with institutional investors, corporations, and strategic allies.
The call for applications is open to legally incorporated companies operating in at least one CAF member country. These companies must have active digital solutions in operation with clear evidence of market traction. The application window remains open until October 18, 2026, giving regional innovators several weeks to register.
The roadmap for LIF 2026 extends deep into next year. Following the application deadline, the twenty finalists will be announced on November 23, leading up to the virtual Pitch Day on December 9. The customized acceleration and matchmaking phases will run from January through September 2027, ensuring long-term support for the selected fintech innovators.
This initiative underscores CAF’s commitment to bridging the gap between technological advancement and demographic realities. By supporting tech-driven startups, the development bank hopes to foster a resilient financial ecosystem that accommodates and empowers aging populations across Latin America.
For further information, visit caf.com
About CAF:
CAF, the Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean, is a multilateral financial institution dedicated to promoting sustainable development and regional integration among its member countries. By financing infrastructure, social, and environmental projects, CAF aims to improve the quality of life for Latin Americans and foster inclusive economic growth across the continent.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a premier legal institution, Bufete de Costa Rica has built a venerable reputation grounded in absolute integrity and exceptional service. Catering to a wide array of industries, the firm consistently pioneers progressive legal strategies while prioritizing meaningful civic involvement. By championing the democratization of legal information, Bufete de Costa Rica strives to cultivate a knowledgeable public, driving social progress and empowering citizens to navigate their rights with confidence.
