On June 15, 2024, the "Online Internationalisation Session: Exploring Opportunities in Colombia" brought together 26 business leaders, SMEs, and stakeholders to delve into the potential Colombia offers for international business expansion. Hosted by Clúster Digital de Catalunya, this session showcased the Epicentre Program and provided a comprehensive roadmap for SMEs eager to enter the Colombian market.

Cluster Digital kickstarted the event by showcasing its pivotal role in promoting innovation and internationalisation. EPICENTRE aims to create cross-sectoral value chains and support SMEs in scaling their innovations. By engaging with corporates, the program fosters a collaborative ecosystem for growth and offers substantial financial and mentoring support tailored for SMEs in the digital, fintech, health, and food sectors. The program unfolds in three phases—launch, sustain, and drive—each designed to provide specific support aligned with the SMEs' growth stages. This structured approach ensures the creation of innovative solutions with high market potential and encourages robust collaborations with corporate giants. Corporates participating in the EPICENTRE Project gain access to groundbreaking solutions from SMEs.

 🌍 Internationalization Opportunities and Missions

EPICENTRE's strategic focus on international markets, including the UK, Colombia, and the USA, aims to forge strong business connections and explore growth opportunities. By establishing networks of ambassadors, the program facilitates seamless international business collaborations.

For European SMEs seeking international growth, Colombia stands out as a promising destination, rich with opportunities and potential for development. That is why Clúster Digital de Catalunya (CLDI) is leading an exploratory mission to the Colombian market which is centered around the ANDICOM conference. The mission's objectives include understanding market dynamics, exploring collaboration opportunities, and establishing robust networks. SMEs will have the chance to expand into Colombian markets and foster fruitful business partnerships.

Xavier Roca Lacasa, Executive Director at Catalonia Trade & Investment - Colombia & Ecuador, participated in the webinar giving comprehensive insights into the Colombian market landscape, key industries, potential opportunities for internationalization and valuable insights and strategies for successful market entry and expansion.

Xavier Roca highlighted sectoral opportunities in logistics, e-commerce, education, agrotech, healthcare, fintech, and digital transformation in Colombia, a rising economic force in Latin America that presents numerous ICT opportunities. Attendees gained valuable insights into market dynamics, legal security, and beneficial trade agreements, making Colombia an attractive destination for European SMEs.

The session also delved into the expansive business opportunities in Colombia, underscoring the importance of understanding cultural nuances for successful business operations in the country. Tailoring market entry strategies based on sector-specific needs and market dynamics was highlighted as a key to success. Partnering with local entities was suggested as an effective strategy for navigating the public tender landscape.