Colombia pushes data-driven SMEs, tax incentives and AI in education

UCompensar director Natalia Arbeláez highlighted the need to democratize data analysis for Colombian small and medium enterprises, noting that many SMEs lack real‑time insight into cost overruns and growth opportunities.

Bogotá’s mayor Carlos Fernando Galán presented a "Ciudad Inteligente" package that would grant progressive exemptions on the Industry and Commerce tax (ICA) for firms entering strategic sectors and investing in productive assets, with discounts starting at 100 % in the first year.

McKinsey partner Felipe Child warned that while 92 % of Latin American students regularly use generative AI, university leaders fear superficial learning and job impacts, urging institutions to adopt agency‑oriented AI that supports, rather than replaces, human expertise.

A separate analysis stressed that modern boards must act as strategic brains, guiding organizations through rapid technological change, climate risks and geopolitical turbulence.

Cali’s council approved a new tax statute that cuts predial rates for most residential properties, reduces ICA penalties from 20 % to 5 %, and offers up to an 80 % temporary relief for businesses, especially new tech firms, to boost investment and employment.