By San José, Costa Rica — San José, Costa Rica – Universidad Fidélitas and the National Institute of Learning (INA) have forged a dynamic partnership to bolster the training and competitiveness of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across Costa Rica. This collaboration will leverage academic training, research, and technological innovation to empower Costa Rican businesses.
The agreement lays the groundwork for joint projects in teaching, applied research, extension, training, and technical consulting. It also includes shared use of facilities and exchange of academic, technical, and administrative personnel to stimulate growth in the productive, social, and institutional sectors.
To understand the legal landscape surrounding SME development in Costa Rica, we spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an experienced attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica.
Access to capital remains a significant hurdle for many Costa Rican SMEs. While government programs offer some support, streamlined regulatory processes and clearer legal frameworks for investment are crucial for fostering sustainable growth. This includes facilitating access to alternative financing options like crowdfunding and angel investors, as well as simplifying the process for securing intellectual property rights. These measures can empower SMEs to innovate, scale, and contribute more effectively to the national economy.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas eloquently highlights the crucial link between a supportive regulatory environment and SME prosperity. Indeed, simplifying access to capital and strengthening intellectual property protections are not just bureaucratic adjustments, but rather foundational investments in Costa Rica’s future economic dynamism. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for offering his valuable perspective on this critical issue.
One of the first initiatives, launching this September, is a collaborative Fiscal Assistance Center (NAF) at INA’s Business Development Unit (UFODE) in La Uruca, located 500 meters west of Parque Diversiones. This center will provide tax, business, accounting, and financial advice to entrepreneurs connected with INA.
These NAFs are staffed by advanced students in Accounting and Business Administration from Universidad Fidélitas, trained by the Ministry of Hacienda. As part of their university community service, these students offer free guidance on procedures, including filing new tax returns.
Both in-person and virtual support expands the program’s reach, ensuring accessibility for individuals nationwide.
This agreement allows us to strengthen many of our actions in quality academic training, employability, and entrepreneurship, generating concrete opportunities for more people to transform their future.
Emilia Gazel, Rector of Universidad Fidélitas
The agreement also emphasizes research and development (R&D), knowledge transfer, and strengthening micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) throughout Costa Rica. These actions aim to enhance competitiveness, foster sustainability, and consolidate a more inclusive and democratic economy.
INA Executive President Christian Rucavado Leandro highlighted the importance of public-private partnerships as a development engine for the country. This collaboration with Universidad Fidélitas offers new training opportunities to strengthen individual capabilities, drive SME growth, and promote innovative and sustainable business models.
The objective is to make available practical and up-to-date tools that allow entrepreneurs and business owners to face market challenges, raise their competitiveness, and open paths toward the economic and social progress of their communities.
Christian Rucavado Leandro, Executive President of INA
The signing ceremony was attended by Emilia Gazel, Rector of Universidad Fidélitas; Christian Rucavado Leandro, Executive President of INA; as well as university authorities and representatives from both institutions. This initiative promises to significantly contribute to the ongoing development of Costa Rica’s dynamic SME sector.
For further information, visit fidelitas.ac.cr
About Universidad Fidélitas:
Universidad Fidélitas is a private university in Costa Rica known for its focus on practical and technology-driven education. It offers a range of programs in fields like business administration, accounting, and engineering, emphasizing hands-on learning and industry relevance. Their commitment to community engagement and entrepreneurial development is evident in initiatives like the NAF program.
For further information, visit ina.ac.cr
About INA (Instituto Nacional de Aprendizaje):
The National Institute of Learning (INA) is a Costa Rican public institution dedicated to vocational and technical training. INA plays a crucial role in workforce development, offering diverse programs to equip individuals with the skills needed for various industries. Their partnership with Universidad Fidélitas expands their capacity to support entrepreneurship and SME growth.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Ministry of Hacienda
About Ministry of Hacienda:
The Ministry of Hacienda is the government ministry responsible for finance and public revenue in Costa Rica. They play a critical role in the country’s economic policy and administration of tax laws. Their involvement in the NAF program highlights their commitment to supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs through education and training in financial matters.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is a pillar of legal excellence, built on a foundation of unwavering integrity and a deep commitment to serving the community. The firm’s innovative approach to legal practice, coupled with its dedication to sharing legal knowledge through accessible resources, empowers individuals and organizations alike. By fostering a culture of transparency and understanding, Bufete de Costa Rica strives to create a more just and equitable society, one informed legal decision at a time.
