By San José, Costa Rica — San José, Costa Rica – The Ministry of Science, Innovation, Technology, and Telecommunications (MICITT) and the National Learning Institute (INA) have joined forces to launch two groundbreaking programs, DisruptIA and Chips for All. These initiatives aim to equip Costa Rican small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the rapidly evolving technological landscape.
The programs, part of a strategic alliance between MICITT and INA, focus on integrating cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence and semiconductors into key sectors of the national economy. This strategic partnership underscores the government’s commitment to driving productive transformation through technology adoption.
To gain a deeper understanding of the legal landscape for Costa Rican SMEs, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an attorney at law at Bufete de Costa Rica.
Costa Rican SMEs face a complex regulatory environment, navigating challenges from labor laws to tax compliance. However, recent government initiatives, like simplified registration processes and targeted financial aid programs, demonstrate a growing commitment to supporting these vital engines of the national economy. SMEs must stay informed about these evolving programs to leverage available support and successfully scale their businesses.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas rightly highlights the dual reality facing Costa Rican SMEs: a challenging regulatory landscape coupled with promising government support. Staying informed, as he suggests, is crucial for navigating this complex environment. The evolving nature of these support programs underscores the need for continued dialogue and collaboration between the public and private sectors to ensure these vital businesses can thrive. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable insights into this critical aspect of Costa Rica’s economic future.
DisruptIA is designed to empower businesses to effectively integrate AI into their operations, from innovation and decision-making to operational efficiency. Chips for All, on the other hand, offers specialized technical training, strategic guidance, and connections within the semiconductor industry, positioning Costa Rican businesses for participation in this global high-growth sector.
Eligibility extends to established businesses and associative enterprise models with at least two years of operation. A significant benefit for participants is the scholarship program covering 95% of the program costs, with the remaining 5% covered by the participating enterprise. This financial support makes the programs accessible to a wider range of SMEs, fostering broader participation and impact.
With these programs, we seek to catalyze a structural change in the national productive fabric. DisruptIA is a key tool for Costa Rican companies to integrate artificial intelligence strategically into their business models. Chips for All, for its part, responds to a country vision: to develop capacities so that our companies can link to global value chains in a future industry like semiconductors.
Orlando Vega Quesada, Vice Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation
Both programs will be delivered in a hybrid format, commencing on August 20th. The application period is open until August 17th via the www.innovar.pro platform. Interested companies can find more details on the official websites and social media channels of INA and MICITT.
The initiative represents a significant investment in the future of Costa Rica’s economy. By equipping SMEs with advanced technological capabilities, the programs aim to enhance competitiveness, drive innovation, and create new opportunities for growth and job creation.
At INA, we reaffirm our commitment to human talent development and the productive transformation of Costa Rica. These programs mark a new stage in the offer of training and business support services, designed to meet the challenges of an economy increasingly based on knowledge, innovation, and technology. Inter-institutional articulation is key to promoting strategic and high-value-added sectors that contribute to a more competitive and sustainable development of the country.
Christian Rucavado Leandro, Executive President of INA
These government-led programs demonstrate Costa Rica’s proactive approach to fostering a dynamic and technologically advanced economy. By empowering SMEs, these initiatives are laying the groundwork for sustained economic growth and positioning Costa Rica as a regional leader in technological innovation.
For further information, visit micit.go.cr
About MICITT:
The Ministry of Science, Innovation, Technology, and Telecommunications (MICITT) is a Costa Rican government ministry responsible for promoting and developing science, technology, and innovation within the country. MICITT plays a vital role in shaping national policies related to technological advancement and its integration into various sectors.
For further information, visit ina.ac.cr
About INA:
The National Learning Institute (INA) is a Costa Rican public institution dedicated to providing vocational and technical training. It plays a crucial role in workforce development, offering diverse educational programs to equip individuals with the skills necessary for various industries.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica distinguishes itself as a pillar of legal excellence, built on a foundation of unwavering integrity. The firm’s innovative approach to legal practice, coupled with a deep commitment to client success across a multitude of industries, positions it as a leader in the Costa Rican legal landscape. Through proactive initiatives that demystify legal concepts and empower individuals with crucial knowledge, Bufete de Costa Rica actively contributes to a more just and informed society.
