Tiny Aruba may not be known for much beyond its exotic vacations, but a new group of technology players in the Caribbean country are trying to make it known as the world’s ‘Silicon Beach.’
With the fourth annual edition of its ATECH Conference, Aruba’s ATECH Foundation will be a meeting point for some of the world’s brightest entrepreneurs and startups that revolve around a pitch competition with prizes up to $10,000. The conference kicks off on Oct. 25.
Since its creation in 2015, the conference being held at the Renaissance Convention Center in Oranjestad, Aruba has had a theme each year. This year’s overriding theme is all about identity.
Among the founders are Varelie Croes, who was recently named the Chief Innovation Officer for the Aruban government, and Tristan Every, co-founder of workspace Co.lab that works with startups, entrepreneurs, and creatives throughout the country. ATECH also works with notable companies like Rockstart, Start-Up Chile, and Citi Tech 4 Integrity.
Conference panels will discuss topics of business growth, startup investment, and marketing tools, among many other relevant talking points.
“Building momentum year after year, we’ve brought together world-class founders, visionary investors and change-makers from all over the world to Aruba,” said Aruba’s Chief Innovation Officer Varelie Croes in a recent press release. “When people first hear our story they are intrigued by what we are building here, but it is not until they spend a few days in paradise surrounded by like-minded peers that they realize there’s something special here. The disruptive tech meets happy island vibe surely is unbeatable, but the spirit of resilience and openness of our entrepreneurs is the real draw.”
ATECH President Tristan Every said his foundation was built out of a need for innovation on the island. Through a volunteer-based system it has now become one of the most important figures in the startup ecosystem of the entire Caribbean.
“By bringing in fresh ideas, and offering a venue to introduce the island’s innovative ideas to the world, ATECH* continues to help Aruba’s promising tech scene grow,” Every said. “And it now serves as the go-to resource for the island’s entrepreneurs – offering everyone invited a chance to reset, connect, and play.”
Travel and attendance will be covered for at least one team member of startups chosen for the event’s main competition. The grand prize winner will receive $10,000.
For more information on programming, speakers, and accommodations – and to reserve your tickets today – visit www.atechconference.com.
