Colombia is exploding with tech energy. In 2023, its software and IT sector hit 3 % of GDP, earning $2.17 billion in sales, earning the title of Latin America’s third-largest market after Brazil and Mexico. Startup numbers jumped by around 28% each year from 2019 to 2023. According to recent research, more than 63% of Colombians now have easy internet access.
On the other hand, the Colombian government has launched major programs to ensure internet access and train tech talent nationwide. Today, Colombia stands out as a fast‑moving and exciting tech hub in South America.
Key Drivers Behind Colombia’s Technological Growth
Colombia’s rise as a technological center didn’t happen by chance. Several strategic factors have converged to create an environment where tech innovation can flourish, positioning the country as an increasingly important player in the global digital economy.
From Struggle to Startup Hub
Today, Colombia stands as a leading destination for foreign investment in Latin America, but it was not known just a decade ago. In 2024, the city launched 105 new and expanded foreign investment projects. These projects have approximately USD 2.4 billion and are still creating over 12,000 new jobs. Yet, key sectors include software and IT services, retail, and corporate services with major investors from the US, Spain and Mexico.
Programs like Ruta N in Medellin and Apps.co across the country have offered new entrepreneurs mentorship, training, and funding. These efforts helped build the foundation for Colombia`s tech boom for passionate people.
The Startup Scene Is Surging
A stream of new startups is transforming tech industries and drawing attention from investors around the world. Rappi is considered one of the dominant names in the biggest tech success stories of Colombia. Rappi started as a delivery app and quickly spread across Latin America, and became Colombia’s first unicorn.
On the other hand, Nearshore software development in Colombia isn’t merely a trend. It marks a fundamental change in the way global businesses form technology partnerships.
Why Is the World Watching?
Global investors and tech giants are taking notice thanks to:
- Time-zone overlap with North America
- Highly skilled yet cost-effective tech talent
- Strong digital infrastructure
- Supportive policies and tax breaks for startups
For your information: Big tech companies like Google, Microsoft, and AWS are growing their work and programs in Colombia, making it a regional tech hub.
A Workforce Ready for the Digital Age
Colombia’s biggest strength is its people—young, good with technology, and globally minded. Coding schools, online courses, and platforms like Platzi are helping more people learn and grow.
As more Colombians improve their English and get access to remote jobs, they are ready to work on projects around the world.
Technology That Transforms Communities
Beyond profit and products, Colombia’s tech boom delivers a tangible, community-wide impact
1. Rural Access
Fintech, healthcare, and tech education startups are bringing important services to rural areas that have had limited internet access in the past.
2. Broadband Expansion
Government projects like Vive Digital and Compartel helped more people get online in Colombia. In 2010, only about 17% of towns had the internet. Now nearly 96% do.
3. Smart City Innovation in Digital Medellín
This program effectively uses IoT sensors, data analysis and AI to manage traffic and improve safety. These technologies also help to monitor the environment and make public services better.
Smart cameras, SIATA warning systems, and noise and air monitoring stations have all contributed to sharply reduced violence and make communities stronger.
Where It’s Headed Next
Looking ahead, Colombia is ready to grow its tech influence in new domains:
1. Eco-friendly AI & Technology
Medellin projects use AI to manage waste, reduce pollution and save energy sustainably.
2. Going Global
The location of Colombia and its tech talent is attracting more foreign companies and partnerships.
3. Innovation for all
Efforts to improve internet access and digital tools are helping people in rural and underserved areas join the tech movement.
4. Smart Leadership
Programs that use data and public inputs like Medellín`s “Mi-Medellín” platform are shaping a responsive, citizen-informed future!
Recent Success Story: Gopass
In April 2025, Kfund (from Spain) and Qualcomm Ventures invested $8 million in Gopass. The company had grown by 300% during 2024.
Now it serves over 500,000 users and tracks 650,000 registered vehicles. Gopass helps businesses cut logistics costs by 80%.
Also Read: New Digital Technology in Thailand
Final Thoughts
Once, Colombia was a country with no technological advancements. Yet, now Colombia has shifted from a country with limited infrastructure to an emerging global tech scene.
Once it was a developing nation, and now embracing lasting information and building software power and world-class digital infrastructure. So, Colombia`s tech boom is one of the best options for those looking for a fast-growing tech market and skilled talent or a smart investment opportunity. The tech sector of Colombia is driven by government support and global partnerships. It has now become a hub of lasting growth.
Building relationships with established Colombia’s tech companies can provide a structured entry point into the ecosystem, offering access to vetted talent and defined processes that minimize transition risks. For organizations new to nearshore collaboration, starting with discrete projects before expanding to more integrated partnerships can help build familiarity and trust over time.
