AI Fest: It is necessary to build bridges between startups and investment funds in Latin America

As artificial intelligence (AI) talent and adoption accelerate across Latin America, AI Fest 2025 emerged as a critical platform to close the gap between innovation and capital. Despite the region’s growing ecosystem, investment levels remain well below potential, making initiatives like AI Fest essential to connect startups with investors and catalyze the next wave of technological growth.

Mexico City Takes the Lead in Latin America’s AI Ecosystem

On October 23, Mexico City reaffirmed its status as a leading hub for technology and entrepreneurship in the region. The closing cocktail of AI Fest, organized by Batech.ai, Startuplinks,  Bluebox, and Fleet as part of Mexico Tech Week 2025, brought together investors, founders, and business leaders in a space designed to foster collaboration and opportunity.

“The difference between a startup that scales and one that stagnates lies in access, to capital, to mentorship, and to spaces where talent meets those who can turn innovation into reality,” said Israel García, Director of Startuplinks. “This event serves as the perfect bridge connecting startups with investment funds.”

Networking, Collaboration, and AI for Corporates Challenge

At the heart of the event was networking, where participants exchanged contacts, explored partnerships, and discussed funding opportunities. Meanwhile, the finalists of the AI For Corporates Challenge took the stage to present their innovative AI-driven solutions to a panel of expert judges.

The four competing startups were:

• Cora: A platform for regulatory compliance automation.
• Maat.ai: Specializes in identity verification and document validation.
• Fleet: Focused on predictive people analytics through AI.
• LlamitAI: Develops intelligent agents for financial services.

After deliberation, Cora was named the winner, receiving consulting sessions with sponsors such as Nvidia, Oracle, Perkins Coie, and Lazo, as well as a resource package valued at $20,000 USD.

Latin America’s Global Potential

The event reinforced Mexico City’s role as a regional innovation hub, while also highlighting the continent’s growing influence on the global stage.

“Latin America has the capability to compete globally,” emphasized event organizers. “What’s needed are connection points—like AI Fest—where collaboration translates into capital, mentorship, and access to markets.”

A Regional Effort Backed by Key Partners

AI Fest 2025 received support from key sponsors including CuanticoVP, Felz, deRecruiters, Apolo25, Delfi AI, ADN, Brücke, and Fleet, organizations committed to strengthening Latin America’s technology and investment landscape.

This initiative sets a precedent for future events that aim to position Latin America as a global reference point for purpose-driven innovation, where emerging technologies meet social and economic impact.