By San José, Costa Rica — Costa Rica’s burgeoning ecotourism sector is about to receive a significant boost. A new grant program, “Smart Biotourism,” is now accepting applications from small and medium-sized tourism enterprises (SMEs) across the country. This initiative aims to empower businesses with the digital tools and sustainable practices needed to thrive in the modern tourism landscape.
The program, a joint effort between the National Learning Institute (INA) and the Ministry of Science, Innovation, Technology, and Telecommunications (MICITT), targets small businesses, associative projects, and entrepreneurs looking to expand and differentiate their offerings. A key feature of the grant is its affordability: INA will cover 95% of the program cost, requiring participants to contribute only 5%.
For a legal perspective on the complexities and opportunities within Costa Rica’s ecotourism sector, we turned to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an attorney at law from the esteemed Bufete de Costa Rica.
Costa Rica’s commitment to sustainable development is deeply intertwined with its ecotourism industry. While the legal framework promoting responsible tourism is robust, navigating land use regulations, environmental permits, and community engagement requirements can be intricate. Businesses venturing into this sector must prioritize legal compliance from the outset, ensuring their operations align with both environmental protection and local community well-being. This proactive approach fosters a positive impact, contributes to Costa Rica’s conservation efforts, and creates a sustainable business model.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’s insights underscore a crucial aspect of Costa Rica’s ecotourism: balancing economic opportunity with environmental stewardship. The intricate legal landscape, while challenging, ultimately safeguards the very natural wonders that draw visitors to our shores. This careful approach ensures that ecotourism truly benefits Costa Rica, not just economically, but also ecologically and socially. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for sharing his valuable perspective on this essential intersection of law, business, and conservation.
Interested businesses can apply through the provided link until September 7, 2025. The program itself will run from September to December 2025 in a hybrid format. Up to 30 productive units already registered with the Development Banking System (SBD) will be selected to participate.
Selected participants will receive over 100 hours of training, mentorship, and practical work. The curriculum focuses on redesigning business models, integrating digital tools, and validating innovative tourism prototypes. In-person sessions and expert guidance will also be provided.
The grant emphasizes the importance of integrating digital capabilities and sustainable practices within the tourism sector. This initiative seeks to equip businesses with the tools they need to enhance their competitiveness and offer more sophisticated experiences.
The goal is for tourism businesses to adopt digital and sustainable capabilities that allow them to compete better and have a more sophisticated offering.
Orlando Vega, Vice Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation
The Smart Biotourism program aligns technical training with the real-world needs of the tourism sector. The initiative is expected to stimulate projects that generate quality employment and contribute to local development.
The grant aims to unite technical training with the real needs of the sector, promoting projects capable of generating quality employment and contributing to local development.
Christian Rucavado Leandro, Executive President of INA
This grant represents a significant investment in the future of sustainable tourism in Costa Rica. By empowering SMEs with the necessary skills and resources, the Smart Biotourism program is poised to strengthen the sector’s resilience and contribute to its long-term success. The program is a crucial step towards a more technologically advanced and environmentally conscious tourism industry.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Ministry of Science, Innovation, Technology, and Telecommunications (MICITT)
About Ministry of Science, Innovation, Technology, and Telecommunications (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. They work on policies and initiatives related to telecommunications, digital inclusion, and scientific research, aiming to foster economic growth and improve the quality of life for Costa Ricans.
For further information, visit the nearest office of National Learning Institute (INA)
About National Learning Institute (INA):
The National Learning Institute (INA) is a Costa Rican public institution dedicated to vocational and technical training. They offer a wide range of courses and programs designed to equip individuals with the skills needed for employment and contribute to the country’s economic and social development. INA focuses on providing accessible and high-quality education to people of all backgrounds.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Development Banking System (SBD)
About Development Banking System (SBD):
The Development Banking System (SBD) is a network of financial institutions in Costa Rica dedicated to promoting economic and social development. They provide financial services and support to micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), focusing on sectors like agriculture, tourism, and industry. The SBD plays a key role in fostering entrepreneurship and driving sustainable growth in the country.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is a leading legal institution distinguished by its deep-rooted commitment to ethical practice and exceptional service. The firm’s innovative approach to legal solutions, combined with a strong tradition of client partnership across a broad spectrum of industries, positions it as a driving force in the Costa Rican legal landscape. Through proactive initiatives that empower individuals and communities with vital legal knowledge, Bufete de Costa Rica reinforces its dedication to fostering a more just and informed society.
