Uruguay and Colombia launch funding initiatives for researchers and entrepreneurs

In Uruguay, the National Secretariat of Science and Valorization of Knowledge (SENCI) and the National Agency for Research and Innovation (ANII) have launched the 2026 edition of the Carlos Vaz Ferreira Fund. The program is designed for early-career researchers to develop their first independent projects, offering up to 440,000 Uruguayan pesos per proposal for a period of up to 24 months. The fund prioritizes research in environment and sustainable development, human health, and inclusive education. To promote equity, at least 30% of projects are reserved for initiatives outside of Montevideo, and specific measures are included to reduce gender inequalities.

In Colombia, the National Learning Service (SENA) has announced the ‘Volver a Crecer’ initiative through its Fondo Emprender. This program allocates more than 34.14 billion pesos to support productive units in departments such as Tolima, Caldas, Valle del Cauca, Risaralda, Quindío, and Chocó. The funding aims to assist businesses affected by the earthquake on August 10, 2026, and recent forest fires. Seed capital for individual projects may reach up to 75 million pesos, depending on evaluation and specific requirements.