Latin American SME digital transformation efforts

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across Latin America are increasingly focusing on digital transformation, financial resilience, and specialized training to meet evolving market demands.

In Guatemala, industry discussions emphasize the need for SMEs to establish solid digital foundations and improve cash-flow management. The textile sector specifically faces pressure to adapt to smaller, more frequent orders with faster delivery requirements. Support initiatives, such as Walmart’s “Una mano para crecer” program, have been highlighted to assist qualifying businesses with training and improved payment terms.

In Costa Rica and Chile, government and private sector partnerships are launching structured programs to facilitate this transition. Costa Rican initiatives through the National Institute of Learning (INA) provide non-reimbursable funds and technical assistance for ICT service providers and green growth. Similarly, Chile’s Desafío Nacional MiPymes Digital program offers mentorship in digital marketing and business intelligence. Recent developments in Chile include Corfo seeking an entity to implement a digital assistance network in Aysén, while Bci has opened a new entrepreneurship space in Mercado Urbano Tobalaba.

Regional efforts have expanded to include specialized funding. In Mexico, Banco Santander and FIRA provide 2.4 million pesos in seed capital for green startups in the agricultural and food sectors. In Argentina, the Santa Fe provincial government has introduced a $4,000 million credit line to modernize taxi and remise fleets. Additionally, the Valparaíso Regional Productive Development Committee has approved 200 million pesos to support seven regional startups.