In addition to the global movement towards building tech hubs for economic recovery and innovation, the Digicel Foundation and Pan Trinbago have partnered to inaugurate technology centers for three leading steel orchestras in Trinidad. The tech hubs, equipped with modern facilities, aim to foster learning, creativity, and community development within the steelpan community. This initiative is part of the Digicel Foundation's Technology in Education program, which seeks to bridge the digital divide by providing increased access to the internet and technological resources in underserved areas. The foundation has invested TT$540,000 in eight centers across local panyards, each equipped with five computers, a printer, furniture, air-conditioning, and a year of complimentary high-speed internet. The launch event, held at Pandemonium's panyard in Belmont, celebrated the new tech hubs as empowering spaces. The collaboration between the Digicel Foundation and Pan Trinbago demonstrates a shared commitment to empowering youth through education and technology, while enriching Trinidad's cultural landscape. These tech hubs aim to open new avenues for creativity, learning, and the preservation of Trinidad's cultural heritage in the digital age [0739c6cc].
In the face of challenges such as natural disasters and the COVID-19 pandemic, regions around the world are taking steps towards economic recovery and transformation. Puerto Rico, designated as a biotech hub by the Biden administration, is attracting major tech companies like Amazon, Microsoft, Oracle, and Meta Platforms. With a resilient economy, bilingual workforce, tax incentives, and a regulated banking system, Puerto Rico is establishing itself as a top tech hub in the world. Startups in AI and healthcare are thriving on the island, attracting entrepreneurs and investors with the promise of innovation and research and development (R&D) opportunities [cf0766e0] [21dc34d3].
Meanwhile, the US Virgin Islands (USVI) is also making strides in tech innovation and entrepreneurship. The Research and Technology Park (RTPark) is driving tech innovation and economic growth in the US Virgin Islands. Initiatives like Accelerate VI and the Idea Incubator program are fostering collaboration, nurturing startups, empowering local talent, and attracting investment. Accelerate VI provides resources and mentorship for tech entrepreneurs, while the Idea Incubator program supports the ideation and prototyping stages of startup development. RTPark connects startups, investors, industry experts, and academic entities, positioning the US Virgin Islands as a hub for tech innovation and investment [068892be].
On a broader scale, President Joe Biden hosted the Americas Partnership for Economic Prosperity Leaders’ Summit, where countries pledged financial contributions to support migration-impacted nations. The United States Department of State plans to organize semiconductor workforce symposiums and establish a fund for nature-based solutions. Peru's Executive Branch launched Plan Unidos, a program aimed at reviving the economy and boosting productive sectors, with a focus on water infrastructure, road maintenance, and public-private partnerships [3cf9ba81] [55ca9414].
In Central America, El Salvador is working with the United States to become a regional technology hub. Both countries are committed to improving the digital regulatory environment, enhancing cybersecurity cooperation, and ensuring the security and resilience of telecommunications networks. They aim to create open and interoperable networks and foster public-private dialogue [282e7c78]. The US Deputy Secretary of Commerce has pledged support for El Salvador's tech hub ambitions and discussed collaboration in the digital economy, cybersecurity, and health technology sectors with Costa Rican officials [3d323561].
Governor Mauricio Vila Dosal of Yucatán, Mexico, is promoting innovative professional careers and investment opportunities in the region. During his trade mission to the United States, he discussed the development of cybersecurity careers, industry 4.0 and 5.0 laboratories, and robotics classes for basic education. Vila Dosal emphasized the importance of preparing young people in technology, cybersecurity, and the English language to attract more and better jobs to Yucatán. He also explored opportunities for strengthening semiconductor supply chains between the United States and Mexico [5ccf14e6].
These initiatives across different regions highlight the global focus on building tech hubs, fostering innovation, and attracting investments. By leveraging technology, diversifying economies, and investing in education and infrastructure, these regions aim to drive economic recovery, create employment opportunities, and position themselves as leaders in the digital age.
In Trinidad, the Digicel Foundation and Pan Trinbago have partnered to inaugurate technology centers for three leading steel orchestras. These tech hubs aim to empower the steelpan community by providing access to modern facilities, learning resources, and the internet. The launch event, held at Pandemonium's panyard in Belmont, celebrated the new tech hubs as empowering spaces. The collaboration between the Digicel Foundation and Pan Trinbago demonstrates a shared commitment to empowering youth through education and technology, while enriching Trinidad's cultural landscape [0739c6cc].
In Tobago, the Tobago Performing Arts Company (TPAC) has partnered with The Underground Kingdom (UGK) to host the 'Bridge the Gap' dance masterclass on March 23 at the Shaw Park Complex. The masterclass aims to enhance Tobago's dance community by providing a platform for local dancers to develop their skills, engage in various dance styles, and network with the national dance community. The event will feature accomplished choreographers and dancers, including Matthew McClean and Kelsey McClean from UGK, Priscilla Gueverra, and Shakeil Jones from TPAC. Pre-registration is now open [7afe2cb1].