Innovation hub Ciudad del Saber boosts startups in Latin America
The Innovation Hub known as Ciudad del Saber is reaffirming its position as a driving force for entrepreneurship in Panama and across Latin America.
The Innovation Hub known as Ciudad del Saber is reaffirming its position as a driving force for entrepreneurship in Panama and across Latin America. Each year, the foundation invests more than $4 million in startup support programs, providing early-stage companies with funding, mentorship, and access to a regional network of investors and strategic partners. The goal: to accelerate growth, foster scalable solutions, and position Panama as a key player in the global innovation ecosystem.
Strategic Investment in Startups
According to Cristina Collazos, Startup Program Manager at Fundación Ciudad del Saber, the hub not only channels millions into strengthening the entrepreneurial ecosystem but also provides direct funding to high-potential projects. Selected startups receive between $25,000 and $50,000, enabling them to accelerate product development, strengthen their business models, and expand into international markets.
“What was once a U.S. military base has transformed into a technology park where universities, research centers, private companies, and entrepreneurs coexist,” explains Collazos. “This reconversion created an ecosystem that today supports science, technology, and human development projects.”
A Comprehensive Incubation Program
Ciudad del Saber also runs a four-month incubation program supporting early-stage entrepreneurs. Currently, 59 local startups are part of the initiative, working to validate business models and build sustainable growth strategies.
Beyond the foundation’s own resources, Panamanian startups can also access government funds from SENACYT, which offers non-reimbursable grants of up to $175,000 for science- and technology-based projects.
Regional Capital and Private Investment
Collazos highlights that Panama’s ecosystem is increasingly connected to regional capital through initiatives like the Venture Club Latam, which invests between $100,000 and $300,000 in Panamanian and Latin American startups.
“Investors look for three key factors: innovative solutions, the ability to scale, and strong teams. Without these elements, it’s difficult for any project to secure funding,” emphasizes Collazos.
Challenges for the Panamanian Startup Ecosystem
Despite the available capital, cultural barriers remain a challenge. Much of Panama’s investment still flows into traditional sectors like real estate, while risk-taking in startups is limited.
Another obstacle is the size of the Central American market. To grow aggressively, entrepreneurs must think regional and global from the outset. As Collazos points out, this mindset is already reshaping how investors and founders view opportunities in the region.
At the same time, the absence of a Central American unicorn continues to be a milestone yet to be achieved. For that to happen, startups will need to combine global ambition, openness to risk, and resilience in the face of failure.
Building the Next Generation of Global Startups
By combining strategic funding, mentorship, and regional capital connections, Ciudad del Saber is betting on cultural change to propel a new wave of high-impact startups.
With over $4 million invested annually and a focus on global scalability, Panama is positioning itself as a key innovation hub in Latin America, ready to nurture the next generation of companies capable of transforming local economies and achieving worldwide relevance.
