Río Negro Province launches entrepreneurship program and reports $15.9 bn energy spending

The Province of Río Negro, through its Agency of Economic Development, opened registrations for the 2026 Emprendedores Río Negro program, a joint initiative with Banco Patagonia and Fundación Nobleza Obliga. The free call for applications runs until 30 June and targets aspiring entrepreneurs with online training on AI, finance, marketing, social media, negotiation and emotional intelligence. After the training phase, the 30 best projects will compete in regional semifinals, followed by an eight‑team final in October, where three winners will share a total of $5.5 million in seed capital and a special $600 000 award will recognize a gender‑focused venture.

In the energy sector, the provincial government highlighted that the Punta Colorada project alone spent more than $15.9 billion on local suppliers in the first quarter of 2026, involving 103 companies and creating over 530 direct jobs. Governor Alberto Weretilneck said the aim is to turn energy investments into lasting employment, supplier growth and regional development, outlining a strategy that includes supplier oversight, workforce training, financing and territorial coordination.