A Decade of Momentum: BE Fest and the Maturity of Puerto Rico’s Entrepreneurial Movement

I've had an intense few weeks, and I finally found a moment to reflect on the incredible experience I had at the 2024 BEFest, the hottest entrepreneurial event of the year, held in the vibrant city of Ponce.

At the festival, I connected with colleagues, learned from inspiring speakers, and witnessed firsthand the innovative initiatives that Ponce-based entrepreneurs are spearheading in the region. However, what truly struck me was the immense achievement of bringing together and engaging 1,800 attendees at a one-day destination event focused on entrepreneurship. It sounds simple, but it's anything but easy. The foundation of this success might be traced back a decade.

Ten years ago, Laura Cantero recalibrated Grupo Guayacán's direction and expanded its entrepreneurial programs, Carlos Cobian initiated the H3 Conferences, while Sebastian Vidal and Iván Ríos Mena will soon be launching Parallel18—all supported by renewed public policies that favored entrepreneurs. This era has also benefited from efforts driven by diverse players in the #entrepreneurial ecosystem, including Angiemille Latorre, Celina Nogueras, Dana Montenegro, Gloria Viscasillas, Luis Armando Torres, Nerma Albertorio, Rafael Lama, Sofia Stolberg, and Lucy Crespo's beginnings as the CEO of the Puerto Rico Science, Technology & Research Trust.

Returning to the BE Fest, it is crucial to acknowledge the remarkable work that Lucy has accomplished over almost ten years at the Trust, along with the commitment and dedication of her team. A special shoutout goes to Denisse Rodríguez Colón at Colmena66 for her unwavering commitment to the entrepreneurial ecosystem, along with her partners-in-crime, Jean Paul Gonzalez-Santini, for being an outstanding host, and Pedro Fernández Jerez for his production prowess at CUBE Events.

A significant part of the solution for Puerto Rico to move forward lies in solidifying its entrepreneurial base, which is connected to the global economy. Initiatives like the PR Science Trust's Parallel18 and Colmena66, as well as its signature event, BE Fest, are crucial for connecting and fostering a robust ecosystem. Kudos to everyone involved and all who paved the way for their hard work and dedication. Together, we can continue to "echar pa'lante" Puerto Rico. #SeguimosGuapeando 

**This article was first published on Antonio Duarte’s LinkedIn page.