StartupLab.01: A New Era for Entrepreneurship in Chile

In a significant move to bolster entrepreneurship and innovation in Chile, the Corporation for the Promotion of Production (Corfo) has unveiled an ambitious public policy initiative known as StartupLabs. This initiative aims to create a national network of physical and digital spaces designed to support dynamic and innovative entrepreneurship, particularly focusing on science and technology-based startups. The first hub of this initiative, previously known as Startup Campus, has been rebranded as StartupLab.01, marking a new chapter in Chile’s entrepreneurial landscape.

The Vision Behind StartupLabs

The StartupLabs initiative is a strategic response to the pressing need for innovative solutions to the challenges faced by Chile and the broader Latin American region. By establishing a network of hubs, the initiative seeks to attract companies that can contribute to the development of solutions tailored to the diverse realities across the national territory. The overarching goal is to catalyze the success of startups that leverage scientific and technological advancements, thereby fostering economic growth and enhancing the quality of life for Chileans.

Objectives of StartupLabs

The objectives of StartupLabs are multifaceted and aimed at creating a robust ecosystem for entrepreneurs. Key goals include:

1. Infrastructure Development: Designing and implementing physical meeting spaces equipped with state-of-the-art laboratory infrastructure to facilitate innovation.

2. Collaborative Environment: Fostering a culture of collaboration, creativity, and productivity by connecting entrepreneurs with essential players in the ecosystem.

3. Support Programs: Developing a comprehensive support program network that caters to different stages of an entrepreneur’s journey, including funding, technological validation, and internationalization.

4. Accelerating Growth: Aiming to accelerate the growth and scaling of numerous science and technology-based companies.

5. Global Partnerships: Establishing partnerships and strengthening ties with global references through exchange activities, collaboration, and knowledge transfer.

These objectives reflect a commitment to not only support existing startups but also to nurture a new generation of innovative companies that can thrive in a competitive global landscape.

The Role of Corfo and Fundación Chile

José Miguel Benavente, the Executive Vice President of Corfo, emphasized the importance of entrepreneurship and innovation in enhancing a country’s productivity. He noted that science and technology-based companies are crucial for driving innovation, competitiveness, and productive diversification. By linking scientific research with cutting-edge technology, these companies can generate new knowledge and create high-quality products and services, ultimately leading to job creation and economic development.

The collaboration between Corfo and Fundación Chile is pivotal in this initiative. Their combined expertise and resources are expected to create a supportive environment for startups, enabling them to tackle significant challenges and contribute to the national economy.

Launching StartupLab.01

The official launch of StartupLab.01 took place in May, presided over by President Gabriel Boric at La Moneda Palace. This hub is strategically located in Territoria Santa Lucía, an innovative mixed-use project in Santiago that will feature a renovated former Enel Tower, a food market, offices, and green spaces. This location is designed to foster a vibrant community of entrepreneurs and innovators.

StartupLab.01 aims to support 200 businesses within its first five years, a goal that underscores its commitment to developing a more complex economy rooted in science and technology. Pablo Zamora, CEO of Fundación Chile, highlighted the initiative’s focus on decentralizing opportunities across the country and positioning scientific and technological knowledge at the forefront of national development.

Key Partnerships and Collaborations

StartupLab.01 has already made significant strides in establishing partnerships that enhance its capabilities. Notable collaborations include:

• BancoEstado and BID Lab: As founding partners, these institutions will bolster the hub’s capacity to drive innovative solutions, particularly in addressing climate change.

• Thermo Fisher: This partnership ensures access to specialized laboratory equipment, crucial for startups engaged in scientific research and development.

• Patagonia Biotech Hub: Collaborating with this hub in Puerto Varas will strengthen synergies within Chile’s burgeoning biotechnological ecosystem.

These partnerships not only enhance the resources available to startups but also create a network of support that can facilitate knowledge sharing and innovation.

Future Prospects

Looking ahead, StartupLab.01 is actively exploring additional collaboration opportunities with potential founding partners across various sectors, including energy, mining, agriculture, food, and mobility. The hub is also engaging with universities, accelerators, and international entities to further enrich its ecosystem.

As Chile embarks on this exciting journey towards fostering innovation and entrepreneurship, StartupLab.01 stands as a beacon of hope and opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs. By providing the necessary infrastructure, support, and partnerships, this initiative aims to transform the entrepreneurial landscape in Chile, paving the way for a more innovative and resilient economy.