Latin America is the home of some of the fastest-rising startup ecosystems in the world. Front and center are the region’s cities, the epicenters of all things entrepreneurship, tech and business.
Want to accelerate in Latin America but not sure where to get started? Here are a few cities – and organizations – you might want to give a try.
Rio de Janeiro: Pipa VC
Out of Brazil, Pipa is an accelerator with a social twist. It backs startups that generate financial, economic and social value and is led by a team of professionals and entrepreneurs with career trajectories focused on value-adding companies. Pipa is also one of nine accelerators selected to join Start-Up Brasil.
What You Get: Up to US$9,000 (R$20,000) in funding as well as mentoring, networking opportunities, business resources and education. Limited free housing is available to entrepreneurs from outside of Rio de Janeiro.
Deadline: Wednesday, July 31st
Buenos Aires: itBAF Techangels 2013
Mobile apps for BlackBerry are the name of the game here. Entitled the BlackBerry Challenge, this eight-week program will put teams on the fast track to defining, developing and launching brand new apps. In the end, the startups will compete for cash prizes and other rewards. Take a look at our write-up about the program.
What You Get: The first place team will be awarded US$2,750 (AR$15,000) as well as a GlobalLogic Workshop. Second place will get US$1,830 (AR$10,000), and third US$900 (AR$5,000). The teams behind the top five apps will also have a chance to pitch at the itBAF Demo Day and receive four additional weeks of acceleration. Note: There’s no equity involved.
Deadline: Monday, August 26th
Medellín: Ruta N – NXTP Pre-Acceleration Program
Medellín-based Ruta N and Argentine accelerator and investor NXTP Labs have joined forces to create a new pre-acceleration program in Colombia. Entrepreneurs will receive support in fleshing out their ideas and building business models in an intensive two-month program, much of which will take place remotely. Read our take on the pre-accelerator here.
What You Get: A chance to accelerate with NXTP. The culmination of the program will come in the form of a Ruta N Demo Day, at which all of the 20 to 30 teams selected will present. Of those, NXTP will select at least one startup to join its accelerator and receive US$25,000 in funding.
Deadline: Friday, August 16th
