Cali - Valle del Cauca: An articulated ecosystem, smart capital, and growth with a global vision
Cali is one of the fastest-growing startup ecosystems in Latin America. In 2025, the city recorded the highest growth rate in the country, reaching 266 active startups, with a 72% artificial intelligence adoption rate and a 44% international presence. The ecosystem stands out for its B2B focus, a solid foundation in software and digital economy, and a growing pipeline in sectors such as SaaS, Fintech, Healthtech, Agrifoodtech, and Bioeconomy. Learn more about the ecosystem.
Beyond the numbers, Cali’s main strength lies in its articulation model. The city brings together a robust corporate base, top-tier universities, public leadership, and new investment capabilities such as Epic Angels and Pacific Ventures. Platforms like NIDO and Cali Home4Tech are positioning Cali as a strategic hub for technology, investment, and global connections from the Colombian Pacific.
Ecosystem Verticals
Fintech
healthtech
smartcity
bioenergy
deeptech
Ecosystem Overview
Key Assets
Pacific Ventures
In 2025, Pacific Ventures was launched as a new angel investment vehicle promoted from Cali with the support of the Cali Chamber of Commerce and structured together with Z-Ventures. It started with an initial base of COP 1.4 billion and 20 investors focused on early-stage startups.
Acceleration Programmes
In 2025, Elevara was launched as a public-private initiative led by the Government of Valle del Cauca, Cali Chamber of Commerce, Comfandi, and Trulab. Its goal is to connect purpose-driven businesses with investment funds and mobilize USD 4 million to strengthen companies generating social and environmental impact in the region.
Corporate / public innovation initiatives – GovTech / DATIC
Cali has been strengthening a public innovation agenda through DATIC, with smart city tools, the use of AI in public management, open data platforms, and prototyping exercises involving academia, business, government, and civil society. In addition, the Mayor’s Office signed a collaboration with AWS to develop AI-based solutions for urban challenges such as health, mobility, security, and the environment.
NIDO MeetUps: a series of ecosystem gatherings held throughout the year to connect startups, investors, mentors, corporates, and ecosystem builders, showcase success stories, and generate high-value connections that strengthen Cali’s tech ecosystem and regional collaboration.
Success Stories
+ 320M€
Total investment raised
+ 7M€
Total investment raised
+ 7M€
Total investment raised
+ 5M€
Total investment raised
+ 1M€
Total investment raised
