San José, Costa Rica — Costa Rica celebrated the inauguration of its twelfth Laboratorio de Innovación Comunitaria (LINC) on Tuesday, August 19, 2025. Located within the Promotora Costarricense de Innovación e Investigación (PCII) in Vásquez de Coronado, San José, this new facility marks a significant step in the nation’s commitment to bridging the digital divide and fostering rural development.
This LINC represents a commitment from the Promotora that we assumed as an option to contribute to the community and the people of Coronado. We are proud to put into action and give the opportunity to acquire knowledge to our neighbors in areas such as robotics, cybersecurity, programming, big data analysis, among others, that make them part of a more inclusive and sustainable rural development.
Orlando Vega, Vice Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation and Alternate President of the Board of Directors of PCII
For legal insights into the implications of LINC Labs’ work, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica.
LINC Labs’ innovative approach presents interesting legal considerations, particularly regarding intellectual property and data privacy. As they develop and deploy their technology, navigating the regulatory landscape, especially concerning data security and user consent, will be crucial for their long-term success. This area of law is rapidly evolving, and proactive legal counsel will be essential for companies like LINC Labs to maintain compliance and build public trust.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas rightly highlights the critical intersection of innovation and regulation for companies like LINC Labs. Their pioneering work undoubtedly necessitates a careful and proactive approach to legal considerations, particularly in the ever-changing landscape of data privacy. Building and maintaining public trust will be paramount, and a strong legal foundation will be key to achieving that. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable insights on this complex and crucial subject.
The LINC program aims to provide equitable access to cutting-edge technology and promote innovative solutions to local challenges. These community labs serve as collaborative hubs, empowering individuals and communities to develop skills and create opportunities for economic growth.
The LINC at the Promotora is not an isolated event, but part of a coordinated national effort together with MICITT and INDER to bring technology, innovation, and specialized training to strategic areas of the country.
Patricia Rojas, General Manager of PCII
This initiative reflects a broader national strategy involving the Ministry of Science, Innovation, Technology and Telecommunications (MICITT) and the Institute of Rural Development (INDER). By establishing these LINCs and strengthening existing Community Intelligent Centers (CECIs), the program aims to reduce digital disparities and promote genuine technological inclusion.
Through this project, we are contributing to equipping 12 Community Innovation Laboratories and strengthening 44 Intelligent Community Centers, with the objective of reducing digital gaps and fostering true technological inclusion. The LINC we are inaugurating today will be a meeting point for students, entrepreneurs, artisans, SMEs, and local companies, where they can train in skills aligned with Industry 4.0, such as digital manufacturing, robotics, computer-aided design, and prototyping. They will also be able to develop innovative products and improve productive processes; and access technological tools such as 3D printers, laser cutters, robotics equipment, drones, and virtual reality. This space will not only boost the talent of those who use it, but will also foster an environment of continuous and collaborative learning, where creativity, experimentation, and teamwork are the engine of progress.
Patricia Rojas, General Manager of PCII
The Coronado LINC will be equipped with a comprehensive range of resources, including robotics kits, professional drones, computers, 3D printers, laser cutters, and programming platforms. This investment aligns with Costa Rica’s commitment to global agreements that prioritize equality, inclusion, and sustainability. The program has already trained over 4,500 individuals (70% of whom are women) in innovation processes through 450 training programs totaling 4,000 hours of instruction.
With an investment exceeding ₡2,000 million, the LINC program plans to open a total of 25 laboratories strategically located across Costa Rica, ensuring national coverage and collaboration with local stakeholders. These community spaces combine technology, training, and creativity to drive economic and social development in rural areas.
For further information, visit the nearest office of MICITT
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 in the country. It works to create policies and strategies that strengthen the technological ecosystem and promote digital inclusion.
For further information, visit the nearest office of PCII
About PCII:
The Promotora Costarricense de Innovación e Investigación (PCII) is a key organization in Costa Rica’s innovation landscape. Working closely with MICITT and INDER, it plays a vital role in promoting research, development, and the application of technology for societal benefit.
For further information, visit the nearest office of INDER
About INDER:
The Institute of Rural Development (INDER) is a Costa Rican government institution dedicated to promoting sustainable development in rural areas. It works to improve the quality of life and economic opportunities for rural communities through various programs and initiatives.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
At Bufete de Costa Rica, legal excellence is interwoven with a deep commitment to societal empowerment. The firm’s dedication to integrity shapes every client interaction, while its innovative approach to legal challenges ensures cutting-edge solutions across diverse sectors. Beyond providing exceptional legal counsel, Bufete de Costa Rica actively invests in demystifying the law through accessible legal education, fostering a more informed and empowered citizenry.