Press releases

January 15, 2024, Panama City, Panama. December 2023. On December 15, 2023, a closing ceremony was held to mark the completion of the implementation of the Inter-American Open Data Program to Prevent and Combat Corruption (PIDA) in Panama, a project implemented by The Trust for the Americas through its Democratizing Innovation in the Americas (DIA) Program.   The initiative, launched in 2022 in strategic partnership with the Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean (CAF), the National Authority for Transparency and Access to Information (ANTAI), and the National Authority for Government Innovation (AIG), aimed to support the Panamanian government and civil society in the collaborative process of implementing PIDA and in developing actions that contribute to combating corruption through the use of open data.   Among the notable achievements of this phase is: Representatives from various sectors participated in the closing event. Jorge Umaña, Project Coordinator at The Trust for the Americas, noted: “This project aims to drive and improve actions and initiatives in the fight against corruption and to promote an ecosystem that facilitates access to and use of open data in the country.”  Likewise, Elsa Fernández, Director General of ANTAI, stated: “The impact on technical capabilities—both among citizens and within the government sector—was definitely widespread. More than 31 entities were involved in anti-corruption efforts, of which 17 are now committed to the ongoing publication of 30 related datasets, which are key to the fight against corruption.”  The Inter-American Open Data Program to Prevent and Combat Corruption (PIDA) in Panama focuses on implementing various actions, such as training, awareness-raising, project execution, and the incubation of citizen empowerment projects. These initiatives seek to establish new and effective channels in the fight against corruption through the use of open data. In this context, the essential pillars for their proper implementation include:  Backed by Sustainable Development Goals 16 and 17—related to peace, justice, and strong institutions, as well as partnerships for the goals—this project reflects an ongoing commitment to a more just, transparent, and collaborative society in the region.  ***   About The Trust for the Americas:  The Trust for the Americas is a nonprofit organization affiliated with the Organization of American States (OAS). Established in 1997 to promote public-private partnerships, The Trust has implemented projects in 24 countries and has worked with more than 1,000 organizations in the region. Our initiatives seek to promote educational and economic opportunities, as well as government accountability and transparency. Our unique partnership with the OAS gives us access to decision-makers throughout the region. This fundamental partnership is the foundation through which we build strong networks across all member states and the private sector. Through the development of our region, The Trust continues to help overcome challenges through strategic partnerships that promote cooperation for sustainable results.   The Trust for the Americas is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.     LinkedIn: The Trust for the Americas | Instagram: @Trust4Americas  Panama

2023/12/07 Washington, D.C., 6 de diciembre de 2023 — En una cena celebrada este 4 de diciembre, en el Hall de las Américas de la Organización de Estados Americanos (OEA), The Trust for the Americas y la OEA entregaron el prestigioso Premio Ciudadano Corporativo de las Américas (CCA). La ceremonia contó con la participación de 90 distinguidos invitados, entre embajadores, dignatarios y representantes del gobierno de Estados Unidos y empresas de la región. Las palabras inaugurales estuvieron a cargo de Enrique García, Presidente del Directorio de The Trust for the Americas, quien dio la bienvenida a los presentes. Posteriormente, Alex Figueroa, Director de Operaciones (COO) del Trust for the Americas, ofreció un emocionante discurso recordando el impacto significativo de la organización, que en este año benefició a más de 5 millones de personas. Los asistentes tuvieron la oportunidad de conocer de primera mano un video de caso de éxito del Trust for the Americas. En un diálogo estilo “fireside chat,” Linda Eddleman, CEO del Trust for the Americas, y el Secretario General de la OEA, Luis Almagro, abordaron la realidad actual de la región y destacaron el papel fundamental del sector privado en la construcción de un futuro mejor para toda la región. Los galardonados de la noche fueron Wakami, representada por su COO, Diego Villa, quien recibió una Mención Especial por su destacada labor. Wakami se ha destacado por crear cadenas de valor que conectan a comunidades rurales, especialmente a mujeres, con mercados nacionales e internacionales. La organización, certificada como B Corporation, ha demostrado un compromiso excepcional con la autosuficiencia y la propiedad de los productores. A continuación, el Secretario General de la OEA presentó al ganador del premio CCA Award de este año. Al referirse a lo difícil de la decisión de elegir al ganador de este año, destacó las propuestas y el trabajo de los otros 3 finalistas y pidió para sus representantes, un aplauso de la sala. Ellos son Grupo Financiero Ficohsa, Grupo Pantaleón y Grupo Mariposa. El Premios CCA Award de este año fue para la empresa hondureña Elcatex, representada por su CEO, Jesús Canahuati. La empresa ha demostrado un compromiso sobresaliente con un modelo de negocio impulsado por un propósito, destacándose en áreas como el crecimiento empresarial con un propósito, la gestión del talento, el compromiso con las generaciones futuras y la participación comunitaria. Sobre este galardón el Sr Canahuati comentó: “En Grupo Elcatex, orientamos todas nuestras iniciativas y esfuerzos hacia las personas. Nos enorgullece profundamente nuestro compromiso con el empoderamiento y la inclusión de las mujeres. Trabajamos de manera constante e incansable para proteger e integrar a los grupos con menos oportunidades en nuestra sociedad, centrándonos especialmente en la promoción de causas que respaldan el desarrollo de las mujeres.” La entrega de estos premios reconoce el esfuerzo continuo y el impacto positivo que estas empresas han generado en sus comunidades y más allá, demostrando que el sector privado desempeña un papel crucial en el desarrollo sostenible de la región. Acerca del Trust for the Americas The Trust for the Americas es una entidad sin fines de lucro afiliada a la Organización de los Estados Americanos (OEA). Establecida en 1997 para promover alianzas público-privadas, The Trust ha implementado proyectos en 29 países y ha trabajado con más de 1,000 organizaciones en la región. Nuestras iniciativas buscan promover oportunidades educativas y económicas, así como la responsabilidad y transparencia del gobierno. Nuestra alianza única con la OEA nos permite tener acceso a los tomadores de decisiones dentro de la región. Esta asociación fundamental es la base a través de la cual creamos redes sólidas en todos los estados miembros y el sector privado. A través del desarrollo de nuestra región, The Trust continúa contribuyendo a superar los desafíos a través de alianzas estratégicas que promueven la cooperación para resultados sostenibles. www.trustfortheamericas.org Acerca de Elcatex La trayectoria del Grupo Elcatex es de una constante evolución y crecimiento construyendo un exitoso conglomerado de empresas, que se ha destacado por su visión innovadora y su compromiso con la excelencia en todas las operaciones. Durante más de 30 años se ha centrado en la creación de un ecosistema vertical único, donde convergen cuatro divisiones fundamentales: Manufactura y Textil, Innovación, Energía y Bienes Raíces, colaborando de manera sinérgica para contribuir al progreso sostenible de más de 14,000 colaboradores, sus familias, las comunidades y la región. Grupo Elcatex: Lideramos, Cuidamos, Hacemos la Diferencia. www.elcatex.com Estados Unidos

2023/11/29 Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago. November 24th, 2023 — The DIA Summit at Trinidad and Tobago brought together members of the DIA network, stakeholders, government representatives, experts, and local organizations on November 23rd and 24th. Hosted by CARIRI, the local implementing partner of the DIA Youth Innovation Lab in Trinidad and Tobago (DIA Lab TT), the two-day event, themed “Innovating Future Generations,” successfully fostered knowledge exchange, discussions on critical issues, networking, and collaboration to address challenges and promote meaningful initiatives.  This year’s Summit covered pivotal themes such as Technology, Creative Economies, Climate Change, and Tourism, ensuring a comprehensive exploration of key areas influencing the future landscape in the Latin American and Caribbean region.  November 23rd, we celebrated a stakeholder networking session to increase project visibility and forge relationships between our most promising DIA entrepreneurs, partners, beneficiaries, government, and industry.   On this opportunity, the Honorable Pennelope Beckles-Robinson, Minister of Planning and Development, said: “In the dynamic landscape of today’s world, where challenges and opportunities intersect in unprecedented ways, the role of collaboration and opportunities inherent in our youth cannot be overstated. The youth, with their boundless energy, fresh ideas, and unwavering determination, are the driving force behind transformative projects that have the potential to shape the future.”  A panel discussion on “Entrepreneurship in the 21st Century” also featured four inspiring DIA and young entrepreneurs who shared their experiences, shed light on modern entrepreneurship, and fostered connections among attendees. Cherisse Ellis from Mustards Ink Printing Services, Jonathan Roach from The Seasoning Source, Renee Andrews from Sorvete, and Dareem Jeffrey from EcoWashTT joined us as panelists.  On November 24th, the Summit opened its doors to the interested public, offering a broader engagement and participation platform. At his address, Mitch De Silva, Managing Director at Citi, said: “It is with great pride and honour that we aligned ourselves with this particular initiative. As part of its objective of being in 95 countries, the Citi Foundation focuses on how we can be additive and impactful in the communities we serve. The DIA aligns perfectly with that; it empowers youth, and by empowering youth, we have better communities where we are active.”  Additionally, that day, we heard four engaging panel discussions. Each featured influential figures from respective industries, discussing critical aspects and exploring opportunities for growth and innovation, respectively:  The DIA Summit 2023 was an event that brought together innovative leaders and thinkers with the goal of driving positive change in the Americas. Their reflections emphasize the importance of collaboration, inclusion, and commitment to sustainability and climate justice in the region. This event made it clear that the future of the Americas depends mainly on the joint action of its young people and the empowerment of its women, as well as the adoption of technology and ethical innovation.  To watch the panels, visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Ujr1ku2jFc. ***     About The Trust for the Americas:      The Trust for the Americas is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization affiliated with the Organization of American States (OAS). It was established in 1997 to promote public and private sector participation in social and economic development projects in Latin America and the Caribbean. Our initiatives, implemented through local partner organizations, seek to improve access to economic opportunities as well as to foster innovation in vulnerable communities in the hemisphere. To this end, The Trust also promotes social inclusion and good governance. The Trust has offices in Washington, D.C., Colombia, and Canada.      More information: www.thetrustfortheamericas.org       Facebook: The Trust for the Americas  Twitter:   @Trust4Americas      About Democratizing Innovation in the Americas (DIA):     DIA is a regional initiative of The Trust for the Americas that was launched to foster innovation and empower new generations through access to technology training, specialized curricula, collaboration spaces, mentorship, and financial resources for social and economic ventures.   Trinidad & Tobago

Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago – November 15, 2023 – In line with this year’s Global Entrepreneurship Week theme “Entrepreneurs Thrive Here,” the Trust for the Americas in partnership with the Caribbean Industrial Research Institute (CARIRI) and with the financial support of the Citi Foundation, hosted a Pitch Tank Competition at the DIA Youth Innovation Lab in Trinidad and Tobago (DIA Lab TT).  Following a week-long DIA Bootcamp designed to equip participants with the skills needed to refine their business ideas and pitch them effectively, 26 talented young entrepreneurs had the opportunity to present their innovative business proposals in the creative sector, agro-processing, technology, and entrepreneurship to a panel of esteemed judges. The judges, comprising Mr. Miguel Andrews, Entrepreneur and Owner of Spiritt Woodcraft and facilitator of the New Technologies module for the Lab; Ms. Kemby Ross-Jones, Founder and Owner of Rent My Tutor; and Mr. Siljan Ramphal, Managing Director of South Market 868, meticulously evaluated each business plan and its potential impact, selecting the 15 most promising teams to receive seed funding.  The winning projects were:  Beyond the valuable seed funding awarded to the winners, the Pitch Tank Competition allowed all participating young entrepreneurs to gain exposure and visibility by presenting their ideas to a potential audience of stakeholders and investors. They also benefited from networking opportunities, insightful feedback and validation from the expert panel of judges, mentorship, and guidance from the DIA Team, and a boost in confidence and motivation as they embarked on their entrepreneurial journeys. Therefore, each Pitch Tank organized by the DIA Program celebrates the youth’s effort and the promise of the remarkable contributions they will make to themselves and their country.  The DIA Youth Innovation Lab is firmly committed to fostering and empowering the next generation of leaders through comprehensive business development training, mentorship, and providing access to advanced, state-of-the-art equipment. This unwavering support enables them to create opportunities for themselves and their communities, positively impacting Trinidad and Tobago’s economic progress.  ***     About The Trust for the Americas:      The Trust for the Americas is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization affiliated with the Organization of American States (OAS). It was established in 1997 to promote public and private sector participation in social and economic development projects in Latin America and the Caribbean. Our initiatives, implemented through local partner organizations, seek to improve access to economic opportunities as well as to foster innovation in vulnerable communities in the hemisphere. To this end, The Trust also promotes social inclusion and good governance. The Trust has offices in Washington, D.C., Colombia, and Canada.      More information: www.thetrustfortheamericas.org       Facebook: The Trust for the Americas  Twitter:   @Trust4Americas      About Democratizing Innovation in the Americas (DIA):     DIA is a regional initiative of The Trust for the Americas that was launched to foster innovation and empower new generations through access to technology training, specialized curricula, collaboration spaces, mentorship, and financial resources for social and economic ventures.   Trinidad & Tobago

Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua, 14 de noviembre de 2023.- The Trust for the Americas y Jóvenes Constructores de la Comunidad (JCC) celebraron la graduación de la primera generación del Proyecto Skills for Sustainability (S4S) – Jale por el Agua, que se implementa con la misión de empoderar a poblaciones en situación de vulnerabilidad  y riesgo por el cambio climatico en la región fronteriza entre México y los Estados Unidos. La ceremonia de graduación, realizada en Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua, México, reunió a 37 jóvenes que ahora contarán con habilidades para la vida, laborales y tecnológicas, para colocarse en un empleo relacionado a temas del agua, para ello, JCC ha generado alianzas importantes con instituciones públicas y privadas como la Secretaría de Desarrollo Humano y Bien Común, Cámara de Comercio de Cd. Juárez (CANACO), Centros Comunitarios Municipales, Centros de Servicios Comunitarios Integrados, Junta Municipal de Agua y Saneamiento de Juárez, Veolia y el Instituto de Capacitación y Vinculación Tecnológica de Chihuahua (ICATECH). El Proyecto Skills for Sustainability (S4S) – Jale por el Agua, se realiza como parte del Programa de Oportunidades Económicas a través de la Tecnología en las Américas (POETA) y es posible gracias al apoyo financiero del Banco de Desarrollo de América del Norte (NADBank), Microsoft y otras empresas del sector privado, incluido Water House Group. El objetivo principal del proyecto es capacitar a 200 jóvenes en Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua y 200 jóvenes en El Paso, Texas, de ellos, se vinculará, al menos, el 50% de los participantes con oportunidades laborales de alta calidad en el sector del agua. Jorge Márquez, Gerente del Proyecto, comentó que “desde The Trust for the Americas, celebramos el trabajo de nuestro socio local Jóvenes Constructores de la Comunidad (JCC), la persistencia y la resiliencia de cada uno de nuestros graduandos de Jale por el Agua – Skills for Sustainability. Celebramos que sobrellevaron todas las adversidades, que el sacrificio y su esfuerzo no sólo proveerá un mejor futuro para ellos y sus familias, sino para cientos de miles de personas de sus comunidades y de su ciudad”. José Ramón Garrido Susacasa, Director Ejecutivo Nacional de Jóvenes Constructores de la Comunidad AC, comentó que “es inspirador ver cómo Jale por el Agua, el proyecto que estamos desarrollando en Ciudad Juárez en colaboración con The Trust for the Americas, se convierte en un faro de esperanza y cambio. En esta ciudad tan estratégica para México y Estados Unidos, estamos demostrando que las alianzas entre instituciones gubernamentales, trabajadores, empresarios y organizaciones de la sociedad civil son la clave para impulsar un futuro sustentable. Al capacitar a jóvenes en oficios que les permiten cuidar el vital líquido, estamos forjando un ejemplo de proyecto vanguardista que trasciende fronteras. Este es un testimonio de cómo la unión de esfuerzos puede transformar positivamente una realidad, ofreciendo una visión de lo que es posible cuando trabajamos juntos por el bien común”. Con la currícula de este proyecto se proporcionarán las habilidades que demandan los empleadores, sumando a cerrar la brecha entre aquellos que aspiran a tener una carrera estable y el sector del agua, así como las empresas que dependen intensivamente de este valioso recurso y que, a su vez, requieren con urgencia una fuerza laboral capacitada para operar y mantener sus instalaciones de manera eficaz. Felicitamos a los 40 beneficiarios de Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua, por completar con éxito su formación, contribuyendo así a fortalecer sus fuerzas laborales. Esperamos con interés el continuo éxito del Proyecto Skills for Sustainability (S4S) – Jale por el Agua y su papel esencial en mejorar las vidas y perspectivas de empleo de las poblaciones vulnerables, así como en el desarrollo sostenible de la región fronteriza. Durante el evento estuvieron presentes Lic. Sergio Acosta Liceaga, Subsecretario de Desarrollo Humano y Bien Común; Laura Domínguez, Titular de Acción Juárez Centro-Oeste de ICATECH; Lic. Francisco Moreno, Director General de CANACO; C.P Sergio Nevarez, Director Ejecutivo de la Junta de Aguas y Saneamiento de Ciudad Juárez, Tere Lanzagorta, Directora YouthBuild México y Jesús Manuel García, Director de Centros Municipales. Para más información sobre las iniciativas de The Trust for the Americas, por favor visite www.thetrustfortheamericas.org Acerca de The Trust for the Americas The Trust for the Americas es una entidad sin fines de lucro afiliada a la Organización de los Estados Americanos (OEA). Establecida en 1997 para promover alianzas público-privadas, The Trust ha implementado proyectos en 29 países y ha trabajado con más de 1,000 organizaciones en la región. Nuestras iniciativas buscan promover oportunidades educativas y económicas, así como la responsabilidad y transparencia del gobierno. Acerca de POETA The Trust for the Americas colabora con socios locales en 21 países de las Américas para establecer centros que promuevan la formación técnica y vocacional. Estos centros aprovechan la tecnología para crear oportunidades económicas y educativas para individuos en las Américas. Acerca de Jóvenes Constructores de la Comunidad (JCC) JCC es una organización mexicana sin fines de lucro establecida en 2004, dedicada a promover el desarrollo humano, mejorar las oportunidades de empleo y facilitar la reinserción escolar de jóvenes en comunidades marginadas. Mexico

[Washington, D.C., October 30, 2023] – The Trust for the Americas is pleased to announce two significant developments in its ongoing mission to empower vulnerable and low-income populations in the border region between Mexico and the United States. Twenty beneficiaries from the El Paso, Texas, metropolitan area have successfully completed their training, and 40 beneficiaries from the Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua, metropolitan area will graduate on November 14, marking the completion of the first cohort under the transformative Skills for Sustainability (S4S) Project. This project is supported by a consortium of multilateral institutions, local educational institutions, and private-sector partners in the El Paso-Juárez metropolitan region, San Antonio, and Washington, D.C., and is playing a pivotal role in enhancing economic development through technology. The Trust for the Americas, in collaboration with financial support from the North American Development Bank (NADBank), Microsoft, and other private-sector companies—including Water House Group—was pleased to launch the “Skills for Sustainability (S4S)—Jale por el Agua project” in March 2023. This initiative benefits from a partnership with Jóvenes Constructores de la Comunidad in Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua, Mexico, and the Success Through Technology Education Foundation (STTE) and Wester Tech in El Paso, Texas, in the United States, which serve as implementing partners in both regions. The Skills for Sustainability (S4S) Project receives steadfast support from the Municipal Board of Water and Sanitation of Juárez, El Paso Water, Veolia, Water House Group, the National Chamber of Commerce of Juárez, and the El Paso Chamber of Commerce. These organizations, among others, share a deep commitment to providing technical skills development and promoting employment opportunities in the U.S.-Mexico border region. Skills for Sustainability (S4S) – Jale por el Agua is a binational project focused on training in digital, life, and technical skills, while providing essential support for the employment integration of vulnerable and low-income populations. The program is specifically designed to prepare participants for positions in the water and wastewater management sector along the Mexico-United States border. The Trust for the Americas congratulates the 60 beneficiaries in Texas and Chihuahua on successfully completing their training and celebrates the fact that 95% of these graduates will be hired by companies in the water sector and join their workforce. The Trust looks forward to the continued success of the Skills for Sustainability (S4S) Project, which plays a pivotal role in improving the lives and employment prospects of vulnerable populations and supports the sustainable development of the border region. For more information about Trust for the Americas and the Skills for Sustainability (S4S) Project, please visit the project’s website. About Jóvenes Constructores de la Comunidad (JCC)JCC is a Mexican nonprofit civil society organization established in 2004, dedicated to promoting human development, improving employment opportunities, and facilitating the return to school for youth in marginalized communities. About Success Through Technology Education Foundation (STTE) STTE, a nonprofit organization founded in 2018, operates in the southwest Texas border region. STTE has a twenty-year vision to support initiatives focused on cultivating entrepreneurship ecosystems, a STEAM-ready workforce, and technology literacy through educational programs. About POETA: The Trust for the Americas collaborates with local partners in 21 countries across the Americas to establish centers that promote technical and vocational training. These centers leverage technology to create economic and educational opportunities for individuals in the Americas. United States – Mexico

Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago – October 20, 2023. The Trust for the Americas, in collaboration with the Caribbean Industrial Research Institute (CARIRI) and with the generous support of the Citi Foundation, celebrated the in-person graduation of 297 individuals from the DIA Youth Innovation Lab in Trinidad and Tobago. These young innovators are now ready to harness their transformative potential and lead the way in developing solutions that promise to create new livelihood opportunities and foster economic development in their communities. The DIA Youth Innovation Lab in Trinidad and Tobago (DIA Lab TT) was launched in June 2021. This initiative was established with a clear mission—to spark innovation and foster disruptive solutions among at-risk youth in Trinidad and Tobago. DIA Lab TT achieves this by providing access to cutting-edge technology training, collaborative workspaces, specialized curricula, invaluable mentorship, and essential seed funding grants.  At the event, Quimey del Rio, DIA Senior Project Officer at The Trust for the Americas, remarked, “We’re here to celebrate the vision of fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and youth development. Caribbean youth are tackling local challenges through technology, training, and collaboration. Today, nearly 300 talented individuals graduated with the skills to excel in competitive industries. Our DIA Labs provide a safe space for young entrepreneurs. We thank CARIRI and the Citi Foundation, but most importantly, we appreciate the dedication of our youth and their communities.”  The Honorable Foster Cummings, Minister of Youth Development and National Service, who was also present at the event, stated: “The Government of Trinidad and Tobago is committed to the development of young people, and we have decided to focus on the areas of entrepreneurship and innovation. We have become a society that needs innovators, and when we see people moving in that direction, we want to support them—and this lab here at CARIRI does just that.”  In her remarks, Desirai Johnson Phillip, a distinguished DIA Lab TT graduate from Cohort 15, shared: “Being part of this program has shown us how to rebrand, revamp, and chart the next steps. We’ve learned not only the basics of startups but also that it’s okay to fail. We’ve learned to think outside the box and see opportunities where others don’t. We are the ones who dare to dream and pursue those dreams with everything we’ve got.” The graduation of these 297 exceptional individuals is just the beginning of a transformative journey. They now stand at the forefront, ready to soar in the digital economy, armed with innovative ideas and an unyielding spirit. This milestone underscores the unwavering commitment of all our partners to empower the youth of Trinidad and Tobago and strengthen the foundation of a more resilient labor market for the future.  Since its inception in 2021, the DIA Lab TT has empowered nearly 700 young people through rigorous training, raised awareness among 1,700 community members through engaging workshops and awareness sessions, provided essential networking opportunities, and actively supported the development of 88 groundbreaking projects and ventures that promise to reshape innovation in Trinidad and Tobago.  To learn more about this project, visit https://www.trustfortheamericas.org/programs/dia/dia-urban-lab-youth-innovation-trinidad-and-tobago.   ***    About The Trust for the Americas:     The Trust for the Americas is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization affiliated with the Organization of American States (OAS). It was established in 1997 to promote public and private sector participation in social and economic development projects in Latin America and the Caribbean. Our initiatives, implemented through local partner organizations, seek to improve access to economic opportunities and foster innovation in vulnerable communities throughout the hemisphere. To this end, Trust also promotes social inclusion and good governance. The Trust has offices in Washington, D.C., Colombia, and Canada.     More information: www.thetrustfortheamericas.org      Facebook: The Trust for the Americas  Twitter:   @Trust4Americas     About Democratizing Innovation in the Americas (DIA):     DIA is a regional initiative of The Trust for the Americas that was launched to foster innovation and empower new generations through access to technology training, specialized curricula, collaboration spaces, mentorship, and financial resources for social and economic ventures.     Trinidad and Tobago

Kyoto, Japan. October 8, 2023. – Rodrigo Iriani, Senior Program Manager at The Trust for the Americas, was a distinguished participant at the 18th annual United Nations Internet Governance Forum (IGF) held in Kyoto, Japan, from October 8 to 12, 2023. Hosted by the Government of Japan, this year’s IGF centered on the theme, “The Internet We Want – Empowering All People.” Rodrigo’s participation in the event highlighted the remarkable work of The Trust for the Americas as a pivotal case study developed by Cepei and LIRNEasia. The panel titled “Public-Private Data Partnerships in the Global South” explored the challenges, opportunities, and impact that arise when the private sector, governments, and civil society seek to form data partnerships.  LIRNEasia, an organization dedicated to catalyzing policy change and solutions through research in the Asia-Pacific region, invited Rodrigo to share insights into the transformative power of public-private data partnerships in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the Caribbean region. These partnerships are instrumental in enhancing the capabilities of stakeholders involved in SDG implementation, particularly in regions where progress has been slower. For several years, Cepei has collaborated with LIRNEasia. As a data-driven think tank, Cepei has been at the forefront of fostering multi-stakeholder dialogue, generating evidence for decision-making, and expanding the production and use of open data across sectors and regions. Specializing in Latin America and the Caribbean while working in the Global South, Cepei has made significant strides in empowering individuals and institutions to identify pathways toward sustainable development through data and analysis. In 2021, both organizations launched the SDG Acceleration Roadmap project. This initiative, supported by the International Development Research Centre (IDRC), explores the private sector’s role in shaping public policy through data-related contributions in the Global South. Together, they have made notable progress, successfully documenting 394 data actions across 94 countries.  For several years, Cepei has collaborated with LIRNEasia. In 2021, both entities embarked on the SDG Acceleration Roadmap project, backed by the International Development Research Centre (IDRC), to investigate the private sector’s role in shaping public policy through data-related contributions in the Global South. So far, this initiative has successfully documented 394 data-related actions across 94 countries. Furthermore, this year, they released an insightful paper featuring eight case studies showcasing progress in public-private data partnerships for the SDGs in the Global South. Among the eight case studies, The Trust for the Americas stood out for its role in the Caribbean. As a nonprofit affiliated with the Organization of American States (OAS), The Trust has been instrumental in promoting public-private sector collaborations in the Americas. Its strong focus on the private sector and affiliation with the OAS make it a valuable facilitator for development initiatives. In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, The Trust’s emphasis on capacity building in the Caribbean—particularly in digital skills—aligns seamlessly with SDGs related to education, employability, and community development. Research involving The Trust and partners in Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, and Belize has yielded fundamental insights and recommendations for future regional public-private data initiatives. As the region continues to address digital skills gaps, the study encourages private-sector actors to go beyond capacity building by incorporating value-added interventions into their efforts. This comprehensive approach is poised to drive holistic development in the Caribbean region. Rodrigo Iriani’s participation at the Internet Governance Forum 2023 has shed light on the invaluable contributions of organizations like The Trust for the Americas as convenors in advancing sustainable development through public-private data initiatives. Cepei and LIRNEasia’s ongoing research and collaboration inspire positive change and innovation in pursuing the SDGs ***    About The Trust for the Americas:      The Trust for the Americas is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization affiliated with the Organization of American States (OAS). It was established in 1997 to promote public and private sector participation in social and economic development projects in Latin America and the Caribbean. Our initiatives, implemented through local partner organizations, seek to improve access to economic opportunities and foster innovation in vulnerable communities across the hemisphere. To this end, The Trust also promotes social inclusion and good governance. The Trust has offices in Washington, D.C., Colombia, and Canada.      More information: www.thetrustfortheamericas.org         About Democratizing Innovation in the Americas (DIA):     DIA is a regional initiative of The Trust for the Americas that was launched to foster innovation and empower new generations through access to technology training, specialized curricula, collaboration spaces, mentorship, and financial resources for social and economic ventures.    

Dominican Republic. – Santo Domingo became the epicenter of a momentous event that brought together young people, government representatives, entrepreneurs, and local and international experts. On September 27 and 28, 2023, the DIA Summit 2023 took place, organized by The Trust for the Americas in collaboration with ADASEC Dominican Republic and with financial support from the Citi Foundation. The goal of this event was to create a space for collaboration and innovation focused on three crucial areas: climate change and sustainability, entrepreneurship, and technology and innovation. Over the course of these two days, more than 22 prominent speakers from various countries addressed an audience of over 150 people. The DIA Summit 2023 featured a variety of formats, ranging from keynote speeches to panel discussions, all addressing issues of vital importance to the Americas.  In his opening remarks, Alexander Figueroa, COO of The Trust for the Americas, underscored the importance of technological development in the Caribbean, stating: “Innovation is essential to achieving sustainable development, economic prosperity, and resilience in the face of multiple challenges. We are at a crucial juncture in which the region’s continued progress is significantly enhanced by the adoption of new technologies. Innovation has the potential to forge a more promising future for the people of the Caribbean and, at the same time, position the region as a competitive player on the global stage.”  Below, we highlight some conclusions and reflections by thematic area that underscore the need for multidisciplinary collaboration and the empowerment of youth and women in the search for solutions to regional challenges: Climate Change and Sustainability: Technology and Innovation: Entrepreneurship:  In her closing remarks, Gabriella Hache, Public Affairs Caribbean Cluster Head at the Citi Foundation, stated: “This is a very special day for all of us, as we bring another edition of this annual gathering to a close. We all share a common purpose: to continue inspiring our youth to tackle the challenges of an ever-changing workforce, providing them with the tools they need to grow.” The DIA Summit 2023 brought together leaders and innovative thinkers with the goal of driving positive change in the Americas. Their reflections emphasized the importance of collaboration, inclusion, and a commitment to sustainability and climate justice in the region. This event made it clear that the future of the Americas depends largely on the collective action of its young people and the empowerment of its women, as well as on the adoption of technology and ethical innovation.  For more information about the DIA Summit 2023 and the participating speakers, visit: https://www.thetrustfortheamericas.org/events/dia-summit-2023 ***  About The Trust for the Americas: The Trust for the Americas is a nonprofit organization affiliated with the Organization of American States (OAS). Established in 1997 to promote public-private partnerships, The Trust has implemented projects in 24 countries and has worked with more than 1,000 organizations in the region. Our initiatives seek to promote educational and economic opportunities, as well as government accountability and transparency. Our unique partnership with the OAS gives us access to decision-makers throughout the region. This vital partnership is the foundation through which we build strong networks across all member states and the private sector. Through the development of our region, The Trust continues to help overcome challenges through strategic partnerships that foster cooperation for sustainable results.   The Trust for the Americas is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.   About the Citi Foundation: The Citi Foundation works to promote economic progress and improve the lives of people in low-income communities around the world. We invest in efforts that increase financial inclusion, catalyze job opportunities for young people, and reinvent approaches to building economically vibrant communities. The Citi Foundation’s “More Than Philanthropy” approach harnesses the vast expertise of Citi and its people to fulfill our mission and drive thought leadership and innovation. For more information, visit www.citifoundation.com. About ADASEC Dominicana:  ADASEC Dominicana is a nonprofit organization founded in 1984 with more than 37 years of continuous service to Dominican society, focused on the holistic development of individuals through access to knowledge in areas such as environmental awareness, entrepreneurship, and emotional intelligence, among others.    Dominican Republic

Santo Domingo – September 29, 2023. At an in-person event, the Citi Foundation, The Trust for the Americas, and ADASEC Dominicana celebrated the official launch of the fourth DIA Innovation Lab in the Dominican Republic (DIA Lab RD), a collaborative space that will provide more young people in the Bonao community with access to technology and training in digital, business, and job skills to help boost their employability and create livelihood opportunities.  This lab is an initiative designed by the Organization of American States“ (OAS) The Trust for the Americas, through the Democratizing Innovation in the Americas (DIA) Program, and implemented with financial support from the Citi Foundation. The new lab in Bonao is the sixth to emerge from this partnership, following successful implementations in Jamaica (2016), Trinidad and Tobago (2021), and the communities of Baní, Bonao, and La Vega in the Dominican Republic (2022).  At the event, Rodrigo Iriani, Senior Manager of the DIA Program, addressed the young people in the community: ”I want to thank you for joining us today and invite you to be part of this initiative. This project belongs to you—take ownership of it and make the most of these opportunities.“ In attendance were community leaders, representatives from the Bonao neighborhood association, young people, and the team from The Trust for the Americas. Allen Feliz, coordinator of the DIA Labs RD for ADASEC RD, added: ”We are bringing something wonderful and crucial to our community. This fourth lab continues to create real opportunities for the youth of Bonao and the entire Dominican Republic. This space is available to you, with 18 computers, internet access, and always ready to meet your educational and professional needs.” Since 2016, The DIA Program of The Trust for the Americas has impacted the lives of 11,133 young people and representatives from various sectors of society across nine countries, of whom 1,431 have launched innovation projects that benefit their communities. DIA Labs are spaces that provide access to technology and resources to promote employability and entrepreneurship through digital literacy and training in job and life skills. With the launch of this new lab, they aim to continue scaling up these positive results and fostering entrepreneurship among Dominican youth. *** About The Trust for the Americas: The Trust for the Americas is a nonprofit organization affiliated with the Organization of American States (OAS). Established in 1997 to promote public-private partnerships, The Trust has implemented projects in 24 countries and has worked with more than 1,000 organizations in the region. Our initiatives seek to promote educational and economic opportunities, as well as government accountability and transparency. Our unique partnership with the OAS gives us access to decision-makers throughout the region. This fundamental partnership is the foundation through which we build strong networks across all member states and the private sector. Through the development of our region, The Trust continues to help overcome challenges through strategic partnerships that promote cooperation for sustainable results.  The Trust for the Americas is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.   Dominican Republic