Costa Rica: An emerging leader in AI development in Latin America

In the last decade, Costa Rica has experienced accelerated growth in the field of technology, consolidating its position as a leading country in the development of digital solutions. Among the most dynamic areas is the development of AI in Costa Rica, a sector that has captured the interest of both the government and local and multinational companies.

The country has demonstrated a clear strategic vision to position itself as a regional hub in artificial intelligence (AI), combining public policies aimed at the ethical use of this technology, an advanced digital infrastructure, and an increasingly innovation-oriented business environment.

A pioneering policy framework: the first national AI strategy in Central America

In February 2023, Costa Rica took a momentous step by signing a letter of commitment with UNESCO, with the aim of developing a national artificial intelligence strategy based on ethical principles. This letter, also supported by the Andean Development Cooperation (CAF), laid the foundation for a comprehensive public policy on the use of AI. The initiative was part of an effort to align the country's technological advancement with human values, sustainability, and social inclusion.

As UNESCO highlighted on its official website, "Costa Rica will be the first country in Central America to have an artificial intelligence strategy" (UNESCO). The plan not only contemplates the regulation of this technology, but also the identification of projects, the organization of workshops, and the strengthening of national capacities.

In August 2023, the Costa Rican government officially presented the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy, marking a milestone in the region. MICITT Minister Paula Bogantes explained that this policy seeks to ensure that the advancement of AI is carried out in an ethical, inclusive manner, and focused on human benefit. During the presentation, Bogantes emphasized that this is an effort to reduce inequalities and promote sustainable development (Semanario Universidad).

AI Development in Costa Rica: An Expanding Ecosystem

The development of AI in Costa Rica is not just a government objective; it is also a business reality. According to data from the Costa Rican Coalition of Development Initiatives (CINDE), 75% of multinational service companies operating in the country are currently implementing artificial intelligence-based technologies, and 34% plan to continue investing in this area.

This phenomenon is no coincidence. Costa Rica offers several competitive advantages that make it an ideal location for AI research and development:

• Highly trained human capital, with an educational system that prioritizes training in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics).
• Advanced digital infrastructure, with one of the highest levels of internet access in the region (74% in 2018, with an increasing trend).
• Favorable business climate, driven by public policies that promote technological innovation.

Growing investment in AI also translates into greater demand for specialized talent, generating new skilled employment opportunities and positioning Costa Rica as an exporter of technological solutions.

A strategic destination for hiring AI providers

Thanks to this favorable environment, Costa RicaIt has become an excellent option for companies looking for AI development providers. Costa Rican companies are designing customized solutions in areas such as:

• Real-time process automation (RPA)
• Predictive analytics and data mining
• Virtual assistants and natural language processing
• Machine learning models and computer vision
• Recommendation platforms and intelligent search engines

In addition, local providers stand out for their ability to work in flexible collaboration schemes, such as outsourcing and nearshoring, with multidisciplinary teams that adhere to international quality standards.

The cultural affinity with markets like the United States and Europe, coupled with the convenient time zone, makes Costa Rica an ideal technological partner for AI projects. Many companies choose to establish development centers or innovation labs in the country, taking advantage of local talent and a stable environment.

AI Development in Costa Rica: Success Stories and a Vision for the Future

The country's commitment to the development of artificial intelligence is also reflected in specific projects that are transforming sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, education, and the financial industry.

For example, public universities such as the Costa Rica Institute of Technology (TEC) and the University of Costa Rica (UCR) have launched applied research programs in AI, working alongside private companies and non-governmental organizations. These partnerships are enabling the creation of solutions with social impact, such as intelligent medical diagnostic systems or adaptive educational platforms.

In addition, Costa Rican startups are emerging as key players in the regional ecosystem, developing innovative products that integrate AI and attracting foreign investment.

The national strategy presented by the government also provides for the creation of a specialized center for artificial intelligence, which will promote international collaboration, technological entrepreneurship, and equitable access to knowledge.

AI Development in Costa Rica: Ethics, Inclusion, and Innovation

One of the differentiating elements of AI development in Costa Rica is its ethical and human-centered approach. Unlike other countries where technology advances without clear regulations, Costa Rica has taken a firm stance on the need to guide the use of artificial intelligence based on principles such as:

• Transparency
• Accountability
• Non-discrimination
• Personal data protection
• Digital inclusion

This vision is consistent with the UNESCO Recommendation on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence, which was the basis for the commitment letter signed by MICITT.

Thus, Costa Rica is not only positioning itself as a technological developer, but also as a regional leader in the debate on the responsible use of AI.

The development of AI in Costa Rica is the result of a powerful combination: political vision, an innovative environment, skilled talent, and ethical commitment. These factors make the country a magnet for companies seeking to implement artificial intelligence-based solutions strategically and sustainably.

Costa Rica has demonstrated that, even as a small nation, it can boldly lead the way toward a humanly responsible technological transformation. And today, more than ever, it is consolidating its position as one of the most attractive destinations for collaborating with AI providers in Latin America.

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