Press releases

2023/06/22 Washington DC, June 21, 2023. – The Secretary General of the Organization of American States (OAS), together with the Native Women’s Association of Canada (NWAC) and The Trust for the Americas, announced the launch of the “Empowering Indigenous Peoples through Digital Skills Project”. This landmark initiative, unveiled during the week of the OAS General Assembly in Washington, D.C., aims to enhance the livelihoods and opportunities of Indigenous communities across Québec, British Columbia, and Alberta. The meeting brought together important stakeholders, including the Secretary General of the Organization of American States (OAS), HE Luis Almagro, the Secretary for Hemispheric Affairs, Ambassador James Lambert, the Chief Executive Officer of the Native Women’s Association of Canada Lynne Groulx, the Chief Executive Officer of The Trust for the Americas, Linda Eddleman, and the Special Advisor on Indigenous Affairs of the OAS, Daniel Cano. As a prominent international organization dedicated to promoting democratic governance, human rights, and social and economic development in the Americas, the OAS plays a pivotal role in driving inclusive growth and sustainable development in the region. The Native Women’s Association of Canada (NWAC), a renowned national Indigenous organization with over 40 years of experience, contributed invaluable expertise to the discussions. NWAC has been at the forefront of advocating for social, economic, cultural, and political equality among Indigenous and LGBTQIA+ people, making them a key partner in the project. Their commitment to empowering Indigenous communities and promoting inclusivity aligns perfectly with the project’s goals. The Trust for the Americas, an organization affiliated with the OAS, brings its expertise in fostering social and economic development to the project. With a track record of implementing innovative programs and establishing strategic partnerships, The Trust for the Americas is well-equipped to support the empowerment of vulnerable communities to drive sustainable change. The “Empowering Indigenous Peoples through Digital Skills” Project will commence its 12-month implementation phase in October 2023, thanks to combined financial and in-kind contributions from Microsoft Philanthropies, NWAC, and The Trust for the Americas, underscoring the commitment of these stakeholders to advancing the digital skills and opportunities of indigenous populations. The project’s primary focus is to build digital skills and job readiness of individuals aged 16 and above, thereby facilitating their entry into the labor market and the digital economy. Through a combination of on-site and online training in digital and life skills, the project aims to create digital equity fostering equal access to livelihood opportunities. Acknowledging the unique needs and characteristics of the Indigenous communities, the “Empowering Indigenous Peoples through Digital Skills” Project will incorporate a culturally sensitive approach, ensuring the project’s activities are grounded in cultural awareness and respectful accompaniment. Key objectives of the project include training 350 individuals aged 16 and over in digital and life skills, while also equipping 50 facilitators, community leaders, and elders with the necessary knowledge to replicate the training within their communities. By empowering these local leaders, the project aims to create a sustainable ripple effect of skill development and knowledge transfer. The Trust for the Americas, in collaboration with NWAC, will curate a tailored selection of courses designed to meet the specific needs and desires of community. Leveraging the Microsoft Community Training (MCT) e-learning Platform, participants will have access to a range of courses, including Microsoft’s Learning Pathways and Ernst & Young (EY) Future Skills Workshops. These courses will cover essential computer skills, project management, data content management, digital and financial literacy, entrepreneurship, environmental sustainability, and workforce readiness. Beyond skills development, the Empowering Indigenous Peoples through Digital Skills Project will facilitate access to employment opportunities and support the creation and development of entrepreneurship and businesses within the Indigenous communities. To ensure smooth implementation, The Trust for the Americas has conducted a comprehensive survey of NWAC’s systems and technologies and has already provided Microsoft Office and Windows 11 licenses for all computers used in the skilling initiative. The skilling activities are scheduled to commence in July 2023, with the first cohort of graduates expected to be announced by December 2023. This collaborative effort between the OAS, NWAC, and The Trust for the Americas represents a significant stride towards empowering Indigenous Peoples, fostering digital inclusion, and creating sustainable socio-economic growth within the targeted regions. “This partnership and this project are important to NWAC on two fronts: it aligns with both our economic empowerment agenda and our ‘Go Global’ strategy – which aims to enhance the social, economic and cultural well-being of Indigenous women, girls, transgender, Two-Spirit and gender-diverse people across Canada, the Americas and the world. With a mere 2.2% of Indigenous workers in the tech workforce, it is well beyond time to step up and fill in this unacceptable gap. Ending economic marginalization stands a fighting chance with concrete actions such as this digital skills project,” said Ms. Groulx. “We are honored to be partnering with NWAC for the first time and continue our work with Microsoft with whom we have worked in over 20 countries over the past 2 decades. As The Trust celebrates its 25th anniversary in 2023 it continues to grow, impact and provide economic opportunities to vulnerable individuals in the western hemisphere. This will be our first project in Canada and we could not have wished for better partners in NWAC and Microsoft. Along with the OAS we look forward to bringing digital, entrepreneur and life skills to the Indigenous peoples in Canada and throughout the Americas,” said Linda Eddleman, CEO, The Trust for the Americas. — About The Trust for the Americas The Trust for the Americas is a non-profit organization affiliated with the Organization of American States (OAS). Established in 1997 to promote public and private partnerships, The Trust is incorporated in the U.S. and has legal presence in Canada. The Trust has implemented projects in 27 countries and worked with over 1,000 organizations in the region. Our initiatives seek to promote educational and economic opportunities as well as government accountability and transparency. Through the evolution of our region, The Trust continues to endure by facing challenges through strategic partnerships that promote

June 9, 2023 Monterrey, Nuevo León, May 31, 2023 – The Trust for the Americas, in partnership with the Santa Catarina Technological University (UTSC), is pleased to announce its official launch as a Microsoft Authorized Certifying Center, Certiport. This important certification positions UTSC as a leader in training and certification in cutting-edge technology in the country.   In collaboration with Certiport, a global leader in digital certifications, UTSC is now recognized as a Certiport Authorized Testing Center for obtaining Microsoft Learn certifications. This strategic partnership will allow participants in the Program for Education and Technological Opportunities for the Americas (POETA) at UTSC to access quality training and earn official Microsoft certifications.   UTSC has been selected as a local partner of POETA DigiSpark since 2014, and this new achievement strengthens its position as a leader in technology education in the region. Through its experience and commitment to academic excellence, UTSC has demonstrated its ability to prepare students and professionals for the challenges of the digital world.  Verónica Philippe, Project Manager at The Trust for the Americas, noted: ”On behalf of The Trust for the Americas, we thank UTSC for this partnership, which allows us to celebrate nearly 10 years of the POETA Center. Now, as a Microsoft Certification Center, UTSC is further expanding its leading role in training in key digital skills to meet the surge of technology companies coming to invest in Nuevo León.”  As an Authorized Microsoft Certification Center, UTSC will be equipped with the necessary resources to provide an optimal and reliable testing experience. Participants will have access to a variety of training and assessment programs, including certifications in areas such as software development, database administration, and data analysis.  In this regard, Lara Bersano Calot, Director of Communications for The Trust for the Americas, congratulated UTSC officials and invited the hundreds of young people present at the ceremony to “think about all the life opportunities that young people in Monterrey can have through access to technology, promoting joint projects that benefit their community and build a bright future for everyone.”   At the ceremony, The Trust for the Americas presented UTSC with a plaque of recognition, highlighting its commitment to academic excellence and the development of digital skills. This distinction is a testament to UTSC’s hard work and constant effort in promoting technology education.    MAAP Laura Madrigal González, president of UTSC, acknowledged “the strategic partnership that the Santa Catarina Technological University has had with The Trust for the Americas since 2014. ”The support provided through the POETA center and the DIA lab has had a significant social impact, and these tools help us work every day in the field of education with a broader vision.”  Likewise, The Trust for the Americas took advantage of this milestone to host its first Board of Directors meeting of 2023. During this meeting, the organization’s executives had the opportunity to hear the stories of some of the program participants, thanks to the digital and technological skills they gained through the #POETADigiSpark and #DIA programs.   During the meeting, Emmanuel Loo, Undersecretary of Investment for the Nuevo León State Ministry of Economy, representing Governor Samuel García Sepúlveda, congratulated both institutions for creating a project with significant social impact on the development of the state’s human capital skills and competencies. This is crucial, as the companies that choose to establish themselves in Nuevo León every day are looking for highly skilled individuals.       *** 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 27 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. As our region develops, The Trust continues to help overcome challenges through strategic partnerships that foster cooperation for sustainable outcomes.  Mexico

June 9, 2023, Santiago, Chile (May 25, 2023) – With the mission of boosting employability and transforming the lives of vulnerable populations in Chile, The Trust for the Americas has established a strategic partnership with Ernst & Young (EY) and Microsoft. This alliance aims to empower people through training in digital and technical skills, increasing their competitiveness in the labor market and opening the door to new economic opportunities, especially for those looking for their first job. The Trust for the Americas, an international NGO with a significant impact throughout the Americas, fosters synergies between the public and private sectors, seeking to bring about positive change in the lives of millions of people. In 2022, Ernst & Young (EY) took the initiative and joined the POETA DigiSpark project to deliver Future Skills Workshops, a platform designed to help participants acquire the skills necessary for employability in today’s world. It should be noted that Microsoft and The Trust have been partners for more than 15 years, working to empower vulnerable communities in the Americas through access to, use of, and mastery of technology. Funded by Microsoft Philanthropy, the POETA DigiSpark project continues to spearhead Microsoft’s Global Skilling Initiative in Latin America and the Caribbean. This is made possible by providing access to training and mentoring for people most affected by recent job losses or who are at risk of being replaced by automation. During the opening of this meeting, Verónica Philippe, Manager of the POETA DigiSpark Project at Trust for the Americas, emphasized that “It is thanks to the partnership between various stakeholders—including private companies, social organizations, and NGOs, as well as international organizations—that we are able to bring international development initiatives such as today’s training to fruition.” Verónica went on to thank POETA DigiSpark’s local partners in Chile—Innovacien, CDI Chile, and Fundación Lace—for their tremendous support, as well as Fundación de las Familias for their willingness and commitment in providing the space at their training center to host the event. As part of this partnership, EY volunteers led these workshops, providing training in FSW Entrepreneurship and Financial Literacy to people over the age of 16, particularly those who are unemployed or underemployed. This training opens up opportunities to compete in the labor market, whether by seeking a job, a promotion, or an internship; creating or strengthening a business; or beginning or advancing in formal education. In this regard, Patricio Cofre, a partner in Data Analytics Consulting at EY Chile, commented: “Helping people improve their economic opportunities through the use of modern tools brings us closer to our purpose as a company. We are very pleased with the outcome of this event, and we hope to continue amplifying this impact in future activities.” The Trust for the Americas, together with EY and Microsoft Filantropías, underscores a strong commitment to professional development and growth in Chile through its local partners, such as Innovacien, Fundación Lace, CDI Chile, and Fundación de las Familias. Through this, they aim to expand the scope of the training initiative of The Trust for the Americas’ POETA DigiSpark Project, which seeks to promote economic and educational opportunities in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Guatemala, Mexico, Peru, Puerto Rico, and Uruguay. Microsoft has been a crucial pillar in the development of The Trust for the Americas’ POETA DigiSpark project. In this regard, Jorge Cella, Director of Philanthropy at Microsoft Latin America, noted that “collaboration, technological learning, and inclusion are key for Microsoft. By equipping people with digital skills, we aim to support them so they can improve their employment prospects and better adapt to the changing needs of the market. We cannot achieve these objectives on our own; the only way to begin addressing these social problems is by collaborating with various organizations. This partnership will enable us to continue working together to meet people’s needs quickly and effectively, so that they can secure new and better job opportunities.” Since its inception in 2013, The Trust for the Americas, through the POETA DigiSpark project, has made a tangible impact, directly training nearly 75,000 people ages 16 and older, as well as educators, in digital, technical, and life skills. For more information, visit: https://www.trustfortheamericas.org/programs/POETA/poeta-digispark Facebook: The Trust for the Americas Twitter: @Trust4Americas 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 collaborated with more than 1,000 organizations in the region. Our initiatives aim to promote educational and economic opportunities, as well as government accountability and transparency. Our unique alliance with the OAS gives us access to decision-makers throughout the region. This fundamental partnership serves as the foundation through which we build strong networks in all member states and the private sector. Through the development of our region, Trust continues to help overcome challenges through strategic alliances that foster cooperation for sustainable results. About EY: EY exists to build a better business world, helping to create long-term value for its clients, its people, and society at large, as well as fostering trust in the capital markets. Through data and technology, EY’s diverse and inclusive teams, located in more than 150 countries, instill confidence through audit and help clients grow, transform, and operate. EY’s multidisciplinary approach across audit, consulting, legal, strategy, tax, and transactions empowers EY teams to ask better questions and find new answers to the complex issues facing our world today. About Innovacien: It is a nonprofit organization that promotes creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurship in the educational system, seeking to develop new learning models based on practical experience that will enable people to become active participants in the global knowledge society. To promote the thoughtful and creative use of new information and communication technologies (ICT), Innovacien provides training and support to various audiences in educational institutions, as well as to entrepreneurs and other foundations. Expanding its original scope

Washington, D.C. – May 31, 2023 – The Trust for the Americas is proud to announce the election of Hadi Partovi and Guillermo Areas as new members of its Board of Directors. The Board voted unanimously to welcome both Mr. Partovi and Mr. Areas. With a remarkable career spanning over two decades, Mr. Partovi has been instrumental in driving transformative change and fostering innovation. As the CEO and co-founder of Code.org, a nonprofit dedicated to expanding access to computer science education, he has made significant strides in empowering students and educators worldwide. Mr. Partovi’s expertise in technology, combined with his passion for education, has enabled him to spearhead groundbreaking initiatives that have reached millions of learners and inspired a new generation of tech innovators. His unwavering commitment to inclusivity and diversity has been pivotal in making computer science accessible to underrepresented communities. His invaluable insights and strategic thinking will help The Trust for the Americas continue to harness the power of technology to improve lives. Mr. Guillermo Areas brings a wealth of experience and a distinguished track record in the automotive industry to his new role as a board member of The Trust. His extensive knowledge of Latin America, combined with his deep understanding of the needs and preferences of employers there, will be invaluable assets as we strengthen The Trust’s work in the region. Throughout his career, Mr. Areas has consistently championed innovation and sustainability; his leadership and collaborative approach will undoubtedly inspire The Trust’s team as they continue to shape the future of training, innovation, green initiatives, democratic governance, sustainability, and economic opportunities in the Americas. Linda Eddleman, CEO of The Trust for the Americas, said: “As the newest members of our distinguished Board of Directors, Hadi and Guillermo will play pivotal roles in steering our strategic initiatives and shaping the future of The Trust for the Americas. Their extensive private-sector knowledge and leadership abilities will elevate our brand presence and strengthen our commitment to delivering unparalleled training and economic opportunities for millions of people in the region.” After his election as a new Board Member, Hadi Partovi remarked: “I am honored to join the Board of Trust for the Americas. I believe technology can be a powerful tool for driving positive change, and I look forward to working with Trust to leverage computer science in innovative ways to advance our shared goals.” Mr. Guillermo Areas also acknowledged the work of Trust as he described his new role as a Board Member: “I would like to thank the Board of Trust for the Americas for the privilege and honor of serving as part of an extraordinary Board of Directors. As a new member, I am eager to contribute to the invaluable work the Trust has done over the years in advancing the social and economic development of Latin America and the Caribbean region.” 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, the Trust also promotes social inclusion and good governance. The Trust has offices in Washington, D.C., Colombia, and Canada. United States

Mendoza, Argentina. Tuesday, May 9, 2023. As part of the partnerships developed by The Trust for the Americas to expand the network of digital skills training centers in Argentina, a new POETA program center was inaugurated today in Luján de Cuyo, Mendoza. This center was established thanks to a contribution from the company Klimber Latam and will benefit several communities in the province. The center is promoted and supported by the Valos Foundation and is headquartered at the Agrelo Community Integration Center, which is part of the Municipality of Luján de Cuyo. The Trust for the Americas works with 1,000 institutions in 27 countries and coordinates 360 digital training centers to give communities in Latin America and the Caribbean the opportunity to get ahead, find a job, start a microbusiness, or continue their studies in formal education. Each year, the Program for Economic Opportunities Through Technology in the Americas (POETA, for its Spanish acronym) impacts the lives of more than 800,000 people, 56% of whom are women, supporting them on their journey toward better employment or helping them grow a micro-enterprise. In this regard, Lara Bersano, Director of Communications and Digital Transformation at Trust for the Americas, commented: “It is a great honor to inaugurate a digital skills training center, especially in Argentina and especially this year, because we know we can reach hundreds of people and help them build a better present and future. For Trust for the Americas, in the year of its 25th anniversary, it is especially important to highlight the collaborative work we carry out with private companies and with local and national governments, because we are convinced that this is the best way to develop joint solutions to the problems facing our communities. The economic and social inclusion project we are launching at the Agrelo Community Integration Center becomes the 360th center in a network spanning more than 27 countries throughout the Americas and the Caribbean, comprising more than 1,000 institutions that, every day through education and economic opportunities, improve the lives of millions of people.” Julia Kerman, Executive Director of Valos, commented: “At Valos, we build strategic partnerships to address social and environmental challenges. As an organization, we are proud to be part of the POETA program’s learning center, which was established as a collaboration among the three sectors to jointly promote education and reduce disparities in our society. At Valos, we believe in the private sector’s responsibility to create a sustainable Mendoza, as exemplified in this case by Klimber—our primary financial partner—Pampa Energía, and Segunda Seguros, who provided the resources to make this possible. In addition, we have the support of Microsoft, a partner of Trust for the Americas, which provides software licenses for the classrooms of the POETA Social Franchise, thereby enabling people to learn how to use these tools and increase their employment opportunities.  Today, this initiative is also made possible thanks to the municipality of Luján de Cuyo, which provides a space within the Community Integration Center so that, through VALOS, we can bring in more financial partners to help us increase training hours and, in turn, reach more people.”  Diego Naveira, Chief ESG Officer at Klimber, commented: “At Klimber, we are committed to creating a positive impact on people. Being part of each new POETA Social Franchise allows us to ensure access to digital skills development for people who have never before had the opportunity to acquire the knowledge demanded by an increasingly tech-driven and digital job market. This project is made possible through a public-private partnership with The Trust for the Americas, VALOS, and the municipal government of Luján de Cuyo. It is our hope that this first phase will inspire more and more stakeholders to join us so that, together, we can foster the social and economic development of the local community.” Thanks to the partnership with Klimber, institutions supported to become members of the Social Franchise receive, from The Trust for the Americas, the benefits of advanced membership, which include, among other things, access to Virtual Classroom content on digital life skills and entrepreneurship, Microsoft licenses for computers, and training to strengthen their institutional capacity (communication, monitoring, and evaluation, among others). —About ValosWe promote responsible and sustainable practices alongside companies and entrepreneurs operating in Mendoza or connected to Mendoza’s entrepreneurial and business ecosystem. We encourage synergistic relationships through a new way of doing business and foster the sustainable development of our environment. To continue joining forces and expanding the project we are presenting today, we invite companies and organizations to contact us at infovalos@gmail.com About KLIMBERKlimber is the insurtech company that has been changing the world of insurance since 2018, with the goal of bridging the coverage gap in Latin America. It is a pioneer for creating the region’s first digital life insurance policy and, since then, has continuously innovated, offering personal accident, health, auto, and assistance products through its end-to-end automated digital infrastructure. Its disruptive model enables companies to provide their customers with immediate responses throughout the entire policy lifecycle, including automation for purchasing, consulting, issuance, endorsements, claims management, marketing, and after-sales service, ensuring high efficiency throughout the process, reducing costs and offering the best coverage options. About The Trust for the AmericasThe 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 for the Americas 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. Press ContactsThe Trust for

Mexico City, April 27, 2023.- The Trust for the Americas is launching the second year of implementation of the CIMA Project (Comprehensive Training for Women in Action), in partnership with Jóvenes Constructores de la Comunidad (JCC) and the Centro Laboral México I.A.P. (CELAMEX). The goal is to train young women for entry into the workforce in the hospitality industry, which offers significant economic potential and supports income generation, especially for women seeking to begin a formal career.  In its first year, the CIMA Project trained 179 women in life skills, empowerment, digital skills, and technical skills specific to the hospitality industry. Of these, 119 have already secured employment opportunities at restaurants, hotels, or cafes in Mexico City, thanks to the vital support of local partners, Jóvenes Constructores de la Comunidad (JCC) and Servicios para la Juventud (SERAJ).   Lourdes Serrano, Project Manager in Mexico for The Trust for the Americas, noted that ”CIMA seeks to impact groups of young women in Mexico City by offering them a comprehensive training program that covers technical, life, digital, and empowerment skills.” Similarly, once participants complete and graduate from the full program, we support their transition into quality job opportunities with a focus on the hospitality industry, with the goal of helping them achieve financial independence and overall well-being for themselves and their families.“  Participants also receive comprehensive guidance and cross-cutting support services, such as personalized mentoring, psycho-emotional support, and stipends.   During the launch of the second phase of the CIMA Project, a new partner, Casa Nishi-Terán, presented the booklet ”Your Toolkit for Life,“ a resource that offers tools related to topics such as ”Experiencing Motherhood Without Guilt,“ ”Understanding the Importance of Individuality,“ ”Responsibilities Within the Home,“ ”Knowing How to Say No,“ and ”Discipline Through Love,” among others.   This initiative by The Trust for the Americas contributes to the Sustainable Development Goals, such as poverty reduction, quality education, gender equality, decent work and economic growth, and reduced inequalities.  The launch event was attended by representatives from the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation, a donor to the CIMA Project; Silia Rodríguez and Hanae Nishizawa, representatives from Casa Nishi Terán; Karen Islas, a representative from JCC; Atenas Pérez, a representative from CELAMEX; and Nadia Cortés Moreno, a 2022 CIMA beneficiary. It is important to note that, since 2016, The Trust for the Americas has been working in Mexico to empower women. Between 2016 and 2019, it trained more than 53,000 people nationwide, providing tools that enable women’s economic development and improve their economic situation. For more information, visit:    Visit: www.trust-oea.org Facebook: The Trust for the Americas Twitter:   @Trust4Americas 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 27 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. As our region develops, The Trust continues to help overcome challenges through strategic partnerships that promote cooperation for sustainable results. Mexico

Panama City – March 30, 2023. The Trust for the Americas, through its program Democratizing Innovation in the Americas (DIA), seeks to strengthen the capacities of the public sector and citizens by supporting the implementation of the Inter-American Open Data Program to Prevent and Combat Corruption (PIDA) in Panama. In collaboration with the Development Bank of Latin America (CAF) and the National Authority for Transparency and Access to Information (ANTAI) in Panama, the workshop “Participatory Prioritization of Public Data to Be Made Open for Anti-Corruption Purposes” was held on March 26, 27, and 28.  The workshop provided a space for co-creation and collective ideation for the Anti-Corruption Open Data Working Group, composed of various stakeholders from public institutions, civil society, and academia, with the aim of working toward the goal of implementing an open data process aligned with Panama’s open data governance model. This component will ensure the publication of priority data and data suitable for publication in open, neutral, and interoperable formats, in accordance with international open data standards on the web.  During the initiative, Rodrigo Iriani, Senior Manager of the DIA Program, stated: “The workshop on implementing open data as a tool to combat corruption in Panama is crucial for strengthening transparency and accountability in the country. Making government data open and accessible to the public promotes greater citizen participation in decision-making, which can lead to more effective and equitable policies for all Panamanians.”  Likewise, Elsa Fernández, Director General of ANTAI, stated: “Through this activity, we aim to establish a PIDA Open Data Working Group that will support the program’s implementation and ensure that the datasets identified in the anti-corruption agenda are made available; but more importantly, it will help us create opportunities for participation and collaborative work with other civil society organizations. Involving these actors in this process ensures that the needs and concerns of all stakeholders—not just a select group—are addressed; at the same time, we draw on their knowledge and enhance the trust and legitimacy of the implementation.”  The Inter-American Open Data Program to Prevent and Combat Corruption (PIDA) in Panama focuses on initiatives such as training, awareness-raising, action, and the incubation of citizen empowerment projects to create new channels for combating corruption through open data. This workshop is part of the effort to advance this crucial work.  ***  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.    Facebook: The Trust for the Americas | Twitter: @Trust4Americas     About the Democratizing Innovation in the Americas (DIA) Program:    DIA is a regional initiative that promotes the strengthening of democratic processes in the region and the empowerment of new generations through access to technology training, specialized curricula, collaborative spaces, mentorship, and financial support for the development of social and economic ventures.     Panama

Port of Spain. March 28, 2023. In an exciting virtual event, the “Hack 4 Change” Regional Hackathon brought together young innovators from Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica, and Belize. This idea-generation event was organized by The Trust for the Americas‘ local partner, the Caribbean Industrial Research Institute (CARIRI), and focused on challenging participants from the Democratizing Innovation in the Americas’ Lab network to develop innovative technology-based solutions.  As part of the challenge, 15 participating teams—comprising developers, subject matter experts, and idea generators—had 48 hours to craft an ICT solution for three priority areas: Technology, Creative Economies, and Climate Action, with the hope of receiving $1,000 in seed funding. All the teams demonstrated their passion, creativity, and commitment to developing impactful ideas, making it difficult for the panel of multidisciplinary judges—including Lynette Akong, Gerard Thomas, Miguel Andrews, and Camille Pagee—who carefully evaluated each proposal. Winners were selected for each country: From the DIA Lab Trinidad and Tobago:    From the DIA Urban Lab in Jamaica: From the DIA Lab in Belize: Rodrigo Iriani, DIA Senior Program Manager at The Trust for the Americas, stated: “48 hours of idea generation and conceptualization have produced some truly impressive and innovative proposals. I am amazed by the quality and creativity of these ideas. We are immensely proud of the young people who participated in this Regional Hackathon and inspired to continue fostering innovation. These tech-based solutions are exactly what the region needs to tackle its most pressing problems. Keep thinking outside the box and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible!” These initiatives celebrate the achievements of these young innovators and highlight the importance of empowering, connecting, and inspiring the next generation of multi-sector innovators and entrepreneurs. Now in its third edition, the DIA Regional Hackathon aims to create livelihood opportunities across the region by fostering innovation. By providing a platform for young Caribbean innovators to showcase their talents and exchange ideas, the ’Hack 4 Change“ Regional Hackathon is helping to build a brighter future for the region and beyond.  *** 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, aim to improve access to economic opportunities and foster innovation in vulnerable communities throughout 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.trustfortheamericas.org Facebook: The Trust for the Americas | Twitter: @Trust4Americas Belize – Jamaica – Trinidad & Tobago

La Vega, Dominican Republic – March 10, 2023.  The Trust for the Americas, together with its local partner ADASEC RD and with financial support from the Citi Foundation, held the DIA Lab RD – La Vega Innovative Projects Pitch Competition for the second time. At this event, 21 projects were presented to a multidisciplinary jury in hopes of winning seed funding to strengthen and advance their ventures, which aim to provide solutions to social issues in their communities.  In his opening remarks, Rafael Lorenzo, president of ADASEC, exclaimed: “Long live the entrepreneurial spirit! I encourage you not to lose hope, because what truly matters is having the necessary tools—and you have them. You’ve had an opportunity that very few people have: access to technology, the ability to manage your finances, and the chance to compete for resources to carry out your ventures—and DIA Lab RD makes this possible. Your initiative and enthusiasm show me that our youth is not lost, but rather full of dreams—full of people who want to make things better and people who want to help.”   Likewise, Allen Feliz, Coordinator of the DIA Lab RD Project at ADASEC, concluded his welcome remarks by saying: “DIA Lab RD is yours—it provides $11,000 in seed capital for your ventures. We’ll provide day-to-day support, and after this process, we’ll meet to discuss the existing protocols and ongoing training. Don’t lose heart—DIA Lab RD is building a real story among the youth of the Dominican Republic.” The young people participated in groups or individually, after having prepared and developed their entrepreneurial proposals during several weeks of prior training and practice. Of the 21 projects, the following 11 were selected as winners: The DIA Labs in the Dominican Republic are part of a unique ecosystem that fosters innovation and entrepreneurship. They provide development opportunities for young people in the communities of Baní, La Vega, and Bonao through access to technology, collaborative spaces, training, and competitive seed funding. Young people gain the tools to develop their business ideas or launch social projects aimed at solving local challenges.   Rodrigo Iriani, Senior Manager of the DIA Program, reaffirmed the commitment to the community, commenting: “We are confident that the work we do through this partnership will provide the skills and tools necessary to develop leaders who will be instrumental in building an inclusive society. That is why, through the DIA Labs, we seek to provide our youth with opportunities that empower them and create the conditions necessary to improve their lives and those of their communities.”  The DIA Lab RD Innovative Projects Pitch Competition is just the first step in its entrepreneurial journey, which aims to improve participants’ quality of life, give back to the community, and make a difference in the lives of its people. Dominican Republic

Tegucigalpa, March 9, 2023. Fundación Terra, through its participation in the POETA Social Franchise (Program for Economic Opportunities through Technology in the Americas) is joining forces with the international organization The Trust For The Americas and, in collaboration with Microsoft and the Nasser Foundation, is inaugurating the Digital Skills Center (POETA) at the Institute for Sustainable Development in the village of El Hatillo. This is the first of four POETA centers that the Terra Foundation will establish in Honduras during 2023 and subsequently throughout the region. The POETA Social Franchise seeks to promote the social and economic inclusion of vulnerable populations in Latin America and the Caribbean through access to, use of, and adoption of technologies and comprehensive in-person and virtual educational strategies. Through training in digital and life skills, the POETA Centers help people build a better future through economic opportunities such as finding employment, advancing in their careers, launching a micro-business, or continuing their education. The establishment of the POETA Center at the Institute for Sustainable Development will benefit 18 nearby communities, including El Reparto, La Estanzuela, La Canaán, Lomas del Hatillo, Carpintero, San Antonio, Hatillo, Lo de Ponce, Corralitos, Limones, Matasano, Primavera, La Puente, Jutiapa, Piligüin, Cantadora, Crucitas del Picacho, and Las Matas. The POETA Center will serve approximately 35,000 residents, who will be able to access and use technology to strengthen their capabilities, skills, and competencies, with the goal of fostering economic growth and promoting employment and entrepreneurship opportunities in their communities. Lara Bersano Calot, Director of Communications for The Trust for the Americas, noted during the center’s opening ceremony that “the work of the digital skills centers we’ve developed at The Trust for the Americas began in Central America in 2004. Since then, we have reached more than 4 million people in 27 countries, and in 2023 we are very proud to inaugurate our 351st center together with the TERRA Foundation and Microsoft. The network of which the POETA Center at the Institute for Sustainable Development is a part consists of 351 organizations dedicated to improving the lives of hundreds of people in each of their communities. Through this network, you’ll have access to up-to-date technologies and content, Microsoft licenses, resources for personal and entrepreneurial development, and, above all, access to a team of professionals who work every day to devise solutions and methodologies to support each person in our region, empowering them and enhancing their capacity for development.” The POETA Center will be open during daytime hours from Monday through Saturday for children, youth, and adults from the various communities surrounding the Institute for Sustainable Development, providing them with access to education and training platforms. Access to content that includes, among other things: Additionally, Microsoft, as a partner of The Trust for the Americas, provides software licenses (Windows and Office Suite). The President of the Nasser Foundation, Architect Fredy Nasser, commented: ”We are pleased to open the doors of this POETA Center, through which we will continue our commitment to creating conditions that facilitate access to connectivity for educational purposes in the village of El Hatillo. We are confident that through this center, community members will acquire new skills and abilities that will enable them to access jobs that contribute to their economic growth.” For her part, Mariel Rivera, Executive Director of the Terra Foundation, stated: “At Fundación Terra, together with The Trust for the Americas, we will continue to join forces to implement the four POETA Centers in Honduras, to create comprehensive and inclusive educational opportunities that provide digital and life skills, with the goal of fostering citizens committed to the development of their communities.” For more information, visit: https://www.trustfortheamericas.org/programs/POETA/poeta-digispark Facebook: The Trust for the Americas Twitter: @Trust4Americas 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 allows us to engage with 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. As our region develops, The Trust continues to help overcome challenges through strategic partnerships that promote cooperation for sustainable results. About the POETA Social Franchise The POETA Social Franchise (FSP) stems from The Trust for the Americas“ flagship program “Program for Economic Opportunities through Technology in the Americas (POETA),” with the aim of replicating and expanding this model of successful practices with significant social impact in a standardized manner so that a greater number of organizations can offer their participants: high-quality resources, services, and benefits throughout the Americas. About the Terra Foundation: The Terra Foundation is a non-governmental development organization with extensive experience in implementing programs and projects in Honduras, Guatemala, El Salvador, and Nicaragua. Its social work focuses on objectives aimed at improving the quality of life, socioeconomic well-being, and the environment of our communities through four areas of action: quality education, social infrastructure, entrepreneurship, and the environment. Honduras