"Uruguay is Always Part of the Discussion for Startups Looking to Enter Latin America”

With over 2,000 attendees, including international investors and global technology ecosystem representatives, Uruguay reaffirmed its status as Latin America's business and innovation hub during the latest Punta Tech Meetup. The event showcased its competitive advantages as a destination for investment and startups.

Prominent international leaders shared their perspectives on the country’s potential, including Slovenian Urzka Jez, CEO of Transformation Lighthouse; Brazilian Guilherme Carames, Deputy Country Manager of Web Summit Rio; and Junior Rodrigues, CEO of HUB Conecta and Chair of ALAS. They were part of an international delegation also featuring representatives from Lazo, Mana Tech, Colombia Tech Week, Google, Kalei Ventures, and other regional startup leaders invited by Uruguay XXI. This initiative aimed to showcase the reasons behind the country's rise as the epicenter of business and innovation in the region.

“In Europe, there are always startups looking for places to launch and grow their businesses, and Uruguay is consistently part of the conversation for those seeking to enter Latin America. We know it's a unique area where everyone knows each other, making it an ideal testing ground,” shared Urzka Jez. She also emphasized the advantages of Uruguay’s access to markets and its widespread use of English, making it an ideal starting point for companies.

Additionally, she expressed interest in exploring investment and collaboration opportunities with the Uruguayan ecosystem. “I run a company that offers coaching, training, open innovation, and a fund that invests in startups. We’re exploring opportunities to invest and connect because I believe in cooperation,” she said, emphasizing her commitment to engaging actively with the country.

Guilherme Carames, Deputy Country Manager of Web Summit Rio, shared his perspective on Uruguay's transformation into an innovation hub in Latin America, emphasizing its impressive regulatory framework and business-friendly environment. "Visiting here helped me understand Uruguay’s transformation. I see it on a strong path with robust regulatory support and excellent facilities for attracting businesses," said Carames.

Carames also highlighted the country’s vibrant innovation spirit, noting that Web Summit Rio is a key platform for connecting people and ideas that change the world. This year, the summit will showcase some of Latin America's most promising startups to a global audience. He added, "Last year, we had over 34,000 attendees and 1,000 startups from 100 countries, and we expect even more this year." The event will take place from April 27-30, 2025.

Reflecting on his return to Uruguay after visiting as a tourist, Carames remarked, "Coming back to work, I saw a new Uruguay, full of opportunities for entrepreneurs, innovation, and technology. It was truly surprising."

Both experts noted the enthusiasm of Uruguayans and the dynamism of the local ecosystem. “I felt great energy when people spoke about Uruguay; the locals speak highly of their country and are genuinely happy. That’s a key factor for investors. When you’re bringing your business to a place, you want to sense that positive atmosphere,” Carames remarked. Urzka Jez agreed, noting that Uruguayans’ collaborative mindset reflects a sincere desire to move forward. “Everyone is eager to cooperate, help, and connect. I truly appreciate that genuine spirit,” she added.

Junior Rodrigues, CEO of HUB Conecta and Chair of ALAS, offered a complementary perspective on the country’s governance. “It’s remarkable. Every player knows their role and where they stand. This is evident when startups explain the ecosystem to us. In other countries, such governance is still chaotic,” he emphasized. He also pointed out how initiatives like the Uruguay Innovation Hub foster connections between startups across different countries, something he sees as crucial for regional progress. “These programs are exactly what the ecosystem needs. This is what Latin America can learn from Uruguay—working together with other countries and connecting entrepreneurs,” he concluded.

Rodrigues also expressed his interest in establishing operations in Uruguay and highlighted his affinity with the local ecosystem. “They share the same mindset I appreciate: a focus on doing business. The first Hub Conecta base in the region might be in Uruguay,” he said.

Finally, all three experts agreed that Uruguay is positioning itself as a regional leader due to its openness and international perspective. They underscored the importance of events like the Punta Tech Meetup in solidifying the local ecosystem and recognized Uruguay as a model for the region. Carames pointed out, “Uruguay has a distinct entrepreneurial culture, with a clear focus on local development while always thinking about expanding into international markets.” Rodrigues emphasized that the country’s business foundations are geared towards global outreach, not just the domestic market. “There’s a clear willingness to connect with regional and international ecosystems, which sets them apart as a model for Latin America,” he said.

Uruguay is firmly establishing itself as a regional innovation and business hub, thanks to its clear regulatory framework, global vision, and collaborative ecosystem. Its ability to attract talent and investment makes it a model for technological growth and international connectivity in Latin America.