Inter-cluster collaboration to strengthen the knowledge economy in Latin America — Stage 2

Córdoba Cluster, represented by Cluster Tecnológico Córdoba, led this regional project, co-managed with ECLAC's Division of Production, Productivity and Management, to build a Latin American inter-cluster network focused on strengthening the knowledge economy. The starting point was clear: clusters across Latin America face the same challenges (regional fragmentation, little cross-border cooperation, and difficulty scaling capabilities in digital transformation, open innovation and sustainability), yet lacked structured ways to build shared agendas.

Twenty-nine clusters from 8 countries (Argentina, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Mexico, Panama and Peru) took part, organized by ECLAC into 5 sector teams: Agrifood, Health, Industry & Construction, Tourism, and Fashion. ECLAC's six-stage inter-cluster methodology began in March with applications and selection, and continued with capability-mapping workshops, bilateral sessions, validation workshops and virtual networking.

The centerpiece was Córdoba Tech Week (CTW) on September 24–25, 2025, when Latin American clusters came together in Córdoba for an in-person event featuring an academic program on AI, competitiveness and sustainability, funding rounds, co-creation activities and networking. Participating Argentine clusters included Fintech, Córdoba BIM, Polo Tecnológico Rosario, Córdoba Welcome Cluster de Eventos and Córdoba Cluster itself. GIZ (German development cooperation) co-funded travel for international representatives.

860,000 (ARS 10.93M non-refundable grant + ARS 10.93M cash co-funding). Expected outcomes: at least 20 clusters traveling to the final event, at least 5 collaborative agreements or projects, at least 5 countries represented, and a sustainable Latin American network.