Progreso X: Disruptive Innovation Across Central America Startups

Progreso X has become a key driver of transformation within Central America’s construction sector. Since its creation in 2019, this open innovation and corporate venture capital arm of Progreso has built bridges between entrepreneurs and corporations, accelerating disruptive solutions and preparing the company for the future through experimentation, collaboration, and a human-centered approach.

“Our goal goes beyond technological innovation. We explore, experiment, and scale projects that prepare Progreso for the future,” says Gabriela Rodas, Innovation Manager at Progreso X.

A Dual Model for Open Innovation and Investment

Progreso X operates under two main models. The first focuses on open innovation projects developed in co-creation with Progreso’s business units. The second, PX Ventures, invests in strategic startups and venture funds to strengthen the company’s innovation portfolio.

Together, these models create a robust platform that combines capital, knowledge, and corporate partnerships to accelerate scalable solutions across emerging markets.

Exponential Changemakers: From Scouting to Pilots

One of Progreso X’s flagship programs is Exponential Changemakers (ECM), a global process that identifies startups capable of tackling challenges defined by Progreso. The program connects entrepreneurs with corporate leaders to co-design and test new technologies, covering stages such as scouting, selection, bootcamps, and pilot programs.

Over six editions, ECM has attracted dozens of international applications, allowing startups from different regions to collaborate directly with Progreso’s core business areas. These collaborations have led to projects incorporating blockchain, artificial intelligence, digital platforms, and on-site monitoring technologies.

“Through ECM, we’ve seen how startups from diverse markets can co-create impactful solutions alongside our teams,” explains Sheidy Li Cam, Relations Manager at Progreso X.

FastTracks: Agile Collaboration for Specific Needs

In parallel, Progreso X runs FastTracks, an agile collaboration format designed to quickly identify and connect startups with specific needs of the company’s business units. This approach streamlines selection processes and delivers faster, measurable outcomes.

However, expanding into Latin America poses challenges.

“Convincing startups to view the region as a key market—before the U.S. or Asia—requires clear communication, local pilots, and a strong vision for scalability,” adds Li Cam.

Regional Presence and Strategic Growth

Headquartered in Guatemala, Progreso X operates across eight countries: 

• Belize
• El Salvador
• Honduras
• Costa Rica
• Panama
• Colombia
• and the Dominican Republic. 

From this regional base, the team supports entrepreneurs with market testing, business validation, and expansion strategies.

Over the past five years, Progreso X has worked with more than 30 startups, maintaining an active portfolio of 16 ventures in pilot, go-to-market, and scale-up phases. These milestones demonstrate the maturity of the innovation ecosystem the team is helping to build.

A Vision for Sustainable Impact

Looking ahead, Progreso X aims to consolidate successful pilots, deepen Progreso’s innovation culture, and expand investment opportunities through PX Ventures. The mid-term strategy is focused on sustainability, construction systems, and operational efficiency.

For the team, success goes beyond financial returns.

“The greatest satisfaction comes from seeing how startups generate economic, social, and environmental impact,” says Li Cam. “By improving housing, optimizing processes, and enhancing quality of life, collaborative innovation can truly transform entire industries across Latin America.”

With over 30 startups engaged and operations spanning eight countries, Progreso X is setting a benchmark for corporate innovation in Latin America. Its dual model, combining investment, experimentation, and strategic collaboration, positions it as a catalyst for scalable impact and a blueprint for the region’s next wave of industrial transformation.