David Collado and Diego Forlán highlight Dominican Republic’s sports tourism potential

Santiago.- Tourism Minister David Collado and former Uruguayan soccer star Diego Forlán highlighted the Dominican Republic as a prime destination for sports tourism in the Americas. Forlán praised the country’s natural beauty, hospitality, and sporting potential, recalling his third visit and a memorable 2021 trip to Miches with his family.

Minister Collado stressed that sports tourism is a growing driver of development and a tool to enhance the nation’s international image. He noted that events combining sport, talent, and hospitality help attract visitors from around the world.

During his visit, Forlán engaged in several promotional activities, including a soccer clinic at Cibao FC Stadium, where over 100 children interacted with the football legend. The event drew more than 500 parents and young fans, who had the chance to meet and celebrate the Uruguayan icon, further promoting the Dominican Republic as a vibrant sports tourism destination.

Dominican Republic tourism projects 80,000 additional cruise passengers

Cruise tourism in the Dominican Republic is booming, establishing itself as one of the leaders in the Caribbean thanks to increased demand, modern ports such as Amber Cove and Taino Bay in Puerto Plata, and a strategic approach driven by a cooperation agreement with the Florida Caribbean Cruise Association ( FCCA ).

This sector has experienced significant growth, tripling cruise passenger arrivals in the last decade and projecting even higher figures.

For this reason, Tourism Minister David Collado held several meetings with the leading CEOs of various cruise lines, guaranteeing an additional 80,000 cruise passengers to the Dominican Republic.

The meetings included Michael Bayley, CEO of Royal Caribbean; Dan Farkas, Executive Vice President and General Counsel of Norwegian Cruise Line; and Christine Duffy, President of Carnival Cruise Lines.

“To continue strengthening cruise tourism, with these ongoing meetings, we guarantee 80,000 additional cruise passengers to the Dominican Republic. Why don’t they come alone? We do the work, with the support of the private sector, always thinking about jobs for our people,” the minister posted on his social media.

Dominican Republic stakes bold claim at Top Resa fair amidst European market push

Paris.- The Dominican Republic is poised for an unprecedented showing at Top Resa, France’s premier tourism fair, signaling an aggressive push to reclaim and expand its share of the crucial European travel market. Tourism Minister David Collado, exuding confidence on Monday, declared the nation’s largest-ever delegation for the event, featuring over 30 industry co-exhibitors ready to make their mark.

Collado, personally overseeing the final preparations in Paris, underscored the strategic importance of this year’s participation. “We are laser-focused on recovering European tourists, and it was absolutely critical for the Dominican Republic to be the partner country for this fair,” he stated. “This is where all the major tourism players converge, not just from France, but from across the entire Old Continent.”

The minister’s optimism is backed by a robust agenda. He hinted at significant agreements on the horizon, with deals expected to be inked with airlines, travel agencies, and tour operators – all designed to funnel a greater influx of European visitors to the Caribbean gem.

Adding a fresh dimension to its appeal, the Dominican Republic plans to strategically unveil Miches, a burgeoning coastal region, as a model of public-private development. This move aims to position Miches as a prime new attraction for discerning European travelers.

The Dominican Republic’s presence at Top Resa is physically imposing, featuring a sprawling 400-square-meter exhibition stand. This expansive space is dedicated not only to intensive business meetings for co-exhibitors but also includes a 75-square-meter cultural showcase sponsored by Banreservas, alongside private press and meeting rooms.

As Top Resa, one of Europe’s three most significant tourism fairs, kicks off on Tuesday and runs through Thursday, the Dominican Republic’s ambitious delegation is clearly here to make a decisive statement: the Caribbean nation is back, and it’s ready to cement its status as the favored long-haul destination for French and wider European tourists.

Dominican Republic enjoys solid and sustainable macroeconomic stability, says Finance Minister

Santo Domingo.- The Minister of Finance and Economy, Magín Díaz, highlighted that the Dominican Republic is enjoying solid and sustainable macroeconomic stability, supported by US$14 billion in international reserves and an estimated US$4.8 billion in foreign investment. Speaking at the Master Lecture by Lic. Salvador Ortiz at the Pedro Henríquez Ureña National University (UNPHU), Díaz noted that these strong fundamentals have helped maintain a stable exchange rate, access financing on favorable terms, and keep country risk at historic lows.

The minister contrasted the country’s internal stability with global economic challenges, particularly U.S. trade and fiscal policies, which have slowed international growth. He pointed out that the U.S. economy is growing at half its historical pace and faces inflationary and debt pressures affecting emerging markets. Díaz also recalled that since 2001, the Dominican Republic has improved its sovereign debt issuance, moving from five-year bonds at 9% to terms of up to 40 years under better conditions, reflecting growing investor confidence.

Díaz reaffirmed his commitment to Goal 2036, aimed at removing growth constraints and preparing the country for eventual OECD membership through concrete fiscal, institutional, and social reforms.

Dominican Republic registers US$4.5 billion in foreign investment

Santo Domingo.- President Luis Abinader announced that the Dominican Republic reached US$4.523 billion in foreign direct investment (FDI) in 2024, and projects to exceed US$4.860 billion by the end of 2025, marking four consecutive years of record figures. The announcement was made during the “Investment Recognition” event organized by ProDominicana, which honored 11 companies for their contributions to FDI in the country.

Abinader emphasized that foreign investment is a key driver of economic growth, generating quality jobs, innovation, and sector diversification. Strategic sectors benefiting from FDI include tourism, energy, free trade zones, telecommunications, trade and industry, real estate, mining, and transportation. He highlighted projects like the new tourist center in Cabo Rojo, Pedernales, aimed at attracting visitors and improving local well-being.

The president also underscored the country’s commitment to sustainability and technological advancement, with 25% renewable energy generation and growing investment in high-tech industries such as semiconductors. He invited investors to continue seeing the Dominican Republic as a prime destination due to its macroeconomic stability, legal security, openness, and trust, calling the nation “fertile soil” for investment that drives wealth creation and transformation.

The government will inaugurate key projects in Puerto Plata to boost tourism.

Puerto Plata — President Luis Abinader leads an ambitious program of inaugurations in the province of Puerto Platathis weekend, September 6 and Sunday, September 7, aimed at improving mobility, strengthening education, boosting tourism, and offering residents better living conditions, thus reaffirming the Government’s commitment to sustainable development and the progress that transforms the region.

The works to be inaugurated by the president include the Villa Elisa-Punta Rusia-La Ensenada highway, the Playa Teco highway in Maimón, two schools, housing projects, a bridge, and tourism projects, including the Adompretur building, Infotep classroom and workshop facilities, in addition to the sidewalks and curbs in the historic center of Puerto Plata.

He will also visit the MIDE medical operation and the municipal landfill, meet with students, attend a presentation by the National Philharmonic, preside over the launch of the Graduation Program, and meet with the Punta Bergantín Project Development Commission.

Saturday, September 6

The president’s agenda began at 11:00 a.m. with the inauguration of the Villa Elisa-Punta Rusia-La Ensenada Highway, a strategic project that improves road connectivity and facilitates the transportation of people and goods in the region.

Following this, the president opened the Vuelta Larga Elementary School, strengthening the educational infrastructure and offering students a modern, appropriate learning environment, reaffirming the Government’s commitment to education and community development.

President Abinader then traveled to the municipality of Imbert, where he inaugurated the Saballo School, strengthening the community’s educational infrastructure and expanding learning opportunities for students. He also launched the Kosovo Housing Project, an initiative that provides decent housing and improves the quality of life for beneficiary families.

The governor also opened the Bajabonico Bridge in Altamira, connecting the communities of Los Bonilla, Rincón, Los Polanco, Bellaco, Alto de los Francisco, and Palmar Grande. He also inaugurated the Maimón–Playa Teco Highway. This road enhances access to one of the most popular destinations for both local and international tourists, thereby boosting tourism and regional development.

Likewise, the head of state inaugurated classrooms and workshops at the Technical-Vocational Training Institute (Infotep) for employees of the Free Trade Zone. This project modernizes educational and productive spaces, improves the technical training of workers, and strengthens the competitiveness of local businesses, contributing to the region’s economic and social development.

President Abinader’s Saturday event concluded with a performance by the National Philharmonic in Central Park, providing the community with a space for culture and recreation.

Sunday, September 7

The president’s agenda for Sunday begins at 10:00 a.m. with a visit to the medical operation organized by the Ministry of Defense. He will also preside over the launch of the Titling Program in the San Marcos neighborhood. He will also visit the municipal landfill.

Later, the president will hold a luncheon with 300 young students at the Sports Center, where he will exchange ideas on education, leadership, and community development, reaffirming the Government’s commitment to youth and the progress of the region.

In the afternoon, the head of state will inaugurate the new building of the Dominican Association of Tourism Press (Adompretur), strengthening the institution’s tourism and administrative infrastructure. He will also open the renovated sidewalks and curbs in the historic center, improving pedestrian mobility, safety, and urban aesthetics, benefiting residents, merchants, and visitors.

The president’s agenda on Sunday will conclude with a working meeting with the Punta Bergantín Project Development Commission to evaluate progress and plan the next steps of the initiative.

Puerto Taíno Bay expects nearly one million visitors in 2025

Puerto Plata.- Puerto Taíno Bay in Puerto Plata anticipates receiving between 900,000 and 950,000 visitors this year, with even higher numbers projected for next year, according to terminal manager Rigoberto Gómez.

Gómez noted that during the low season, the port receives between 9 and 15 cruise ships monthly, while in the high season, arrivals can reach up to 35 or 40 ships.

He highlighted that operations are running smoothly and that visitors are generally very pleased with the destination and overall experience.

Frontier operates its first flight between Puerto Plata and Puerto Rico

Puerto Plata, DR.- Frontier Airlines inaugurated a route between Puerto Plata and San Juan last Thursday, strengthening the connection between the neighboring islands of Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic.

“Frontier has proven to be a committed partner in the development of the tourism industry and the local economy. Initially, this new route will operate two direct flights,” said Willianette Robles, Executive Director of the Puerto Rico Tourism Company.

He indicated that the two weekly flights connecting Gregorio Luperón International Airport in the Dominican Republic with Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport in San Juan, Puerto Rico, represent an increase of 4,464 seats, which will have a local economic impact.

For his part, Josh Flyr, Vice President of Route Design and Operations for Frontier Airlines, commented that this new route adds an “affordable” option for Dominicans traveling to Puerto Rico.

“We are proud to be a partner in the tourism industry, a vital driver of economic development for Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, and other destinations we serve in the region,” he emphasized.

Finally, Jorge Hernández, president of Aerostar Puerto Rico, said he celebrates the expansion of Frontier Airlines with the introduction of this new direct route, according to a statement.

“This connection represents a valuable opportunity to continue boosting tourism and trade between our neighboring islands. At Aerostar, we remain committed to supporting the growth of routes that expand San Juan’s connectivity with the Caribbean and the Americas,” he concluded.

Barceló Group reports record profits in 2024

The Barceló Group closed 2024 with a historic profit of €301.8 million, marking a 56% increase and allowing the company to eliminate its debt entirely. According to its annual report, the tourism giant saw its strongest financial results in Spain, Mexico, and the Dominican Republic.

Spain led with €135.4 million in profits—a 58% increase over the previous year—followed by Mexico with €86.9 million (up 45.8%) and the Dominican Republic, which generated €37.2 million, nearly doubling its 2023 earnings of €21.2 million. Other profitable destinations included Aruba (€14.5 million), Costa Rica (€6.4 million), Guatemala (€5.4 million), the United States (€3.6 million), Egypt (€2.9 million), and the Czech Republic (€1.9 million), with additional markets contributing a combined €16.5 million.

However, not all operations were profitable. Portugal, despite reducing its losses from €29.7 million in 2022 to €4.1 million in 2024, remained in the red. Italy also saw a downturn, shifting from a €2.8 million profit in 2023 to a loss of €148,000, following the recent entry of Barceló’s Ávoris division.

Despite setbacks in select markets, CEO Simón Pedro Barceló highlighted the group’s overall exceptional performance and robust financial health heading into 2025.

Dominican Republic leads region in foreign investment

Santo Domingo.- The Dominican Republic has once again emerged as the top destination for foreign direct investment (FDI) in Central America and the Caribbean, maintaining its leadership for the third consecutive year, according to the UNCTAD World Investment Report. In 2024, the country attracted US$4.523 billion in FDI, surpassing the US$4 billion mark annually since 2022—a reflection of sustained investor confidence and a stable business environment.

Biviana Riveiro Disla, executive director of ProDominicana, credited the milestone to the country’s strong macroeconomic foundation, effective public policies, and institutional reforms under the leadership of President Luis Abinader. Despite a global 11% drop in FDI due to financial and geopolitical challenges, the Caribbean saw a 21% increase—driven largely by the Dominican Republic’s economic stability.

The country also accounted for nearly 50% of all FDI received by small island developing states (SIDS), which collectively totaled US$9 billion. Notably, the Dominican Republic led the region in renewable energy investment, particularly in solar and biomass projects, reinforcing its role in the global transition to sustainable development.

To support this momentum, ProDominicana continues to streamline investment processes through tools like the Single Investment Window (SIM), which integrates 26 institutions and manages 41 procedures. This platform has already assisted over 580 investors in high-impact sectors, further solidifying the nation’s reputation as a top

Tourism to boost Dominican economy with over US$21 billion contribution by 2025

Santo Domingo.- The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) forecasts that the Dominican Republic’s tourism sector will reach an all-time high by the end of 2025, contributing over US$21 billion to the national GDP. This would represent 15.8% of the country’s total economy, driven by a projected annual growth rate of 3.3%.

This outlook, based on the latest Economic Impact Research (EIR) conducted with Oxford Economics, underscores the country’s commitment to sustainable and resilient tourism development. The report also estimates that nearly 893,000 people—17.9% of the national workforce—will be employed in the tourism sector this year.

Additionally, international tourist spending is expected to total US$11.4 billion in 2025, while domestic tourism spending is projected to reach US$4.1 billion, highlighting the strength of both foreign and local tourism in the country’s economic landscape.

Apordom projects that the Dominican Republic will break the three million cruise passenger barrier in 2025

The Dominican Republic continues to consolidate its position as the region’s preferred destination, with 394 cruise ships in the first four months of 2025, far exceeding the annual figures recorded in previous years.

Thanks to structural improvements promoted by the current administration, the ships, which can accommodate more than 6,000 passengers, are successfully docking in ports such as Cabo Rojo in Pedernales. Of the 394 ships received this year, 19 docked in Pedernales alone.

The executive director of the Dominican Port Authority (Apordom), Jean Luis Rodríguez, reported this, assuring that the country is on track to break the three million cruise passenger barrier this year.

He also highlighted that a significant portion of the cruise ships received during this period were large-scale vessels, including several of the Oasis Class, the largest category in the world.

“Every time a cruise ship arrives in the DR, the average expenditure per cruise passenger is $100. Let’s take, for example, the Royal Caribbean cruise ship that arrived in Pedernales with more than 6,000 people on board, and we estimate that at least 2,000 of them went ashore. We are talking about nearly $2 million in direct consumption in the province.

This is reflected in restaurants, tour operators, taxi drivers, artisans… people who previously had no economic activity and are now working thanks to this dynamic brought about by cruise tourism,” he said. Rodríguez emphasized the achievement of the port of Cabo Rojo in recently receiving one of these Oasis-class cruise ships from Royal Caribbean.

The ship, with more than 7,000 people on board, docked without difficulty, confirming the operational capacity of this modern terminal.

“Three years ago, there were doubts about this project, and today we have a port that can simultaneously receive two Oasis-class cruise ships, something that very few destinations in the Caribbean can offer,” he said.

Puerto Plata eyes tourism leadership with expanded delegation at DATE 2025

Puerto Plata.- As part of its commitment to promoting and strengthening its position under the brand “Puerto Plata Siempre Real” (“Puerto Plata Always Real”), the destination will participate in the Dominican Annual Tourism Exchange (DATE) 2025, the country’s leading tourism marketing event. Taking place from May 14 to 16, 2025, in Punta Cana, Puerto Plata will aim to reaffirm its tourism leadership with a large and united delegation.

This year, Puerto Plata will feature an expanded delegation representative of its entire tourism value chain. The group comprises a diverse array of member companies from key associations, including the Puerto Plata Destination Tourism Cluster, the Association of Hotels, Restaurants, and Tourism Companies of the North (ASHONORTE), the Playa Dorada Hotel Association (AHPD), and the Sosúa and Cabarete Hotels and Restaurants Association (ASHORESOCA).

During the fair, the destination will showcase its varied, authentic, and sustainable tourism offerings. Active participants will include: Runners Adventures, Macoríx House of Rum, Ahmsa Marina, Ocean World Adventure Park, Hodelpa Hotels, Grupo Rescue, Hotel Marien Puerto Plata, Chukka – Wild Play, Lifestyle Holidays Hotels & Resorts, VH Hotels & Resorts, Banco Popular Dominicano, Nature River Park, Viva Wyndham, Manureva Tours, Brief SRL, and Hospitality Management Solutions representing Natura Cabana and Green Land.

Participants express enthusiasm for being part of this strategic platform, seeing it as an opportunity to forge alliances, attract new markets, and continue positioning the destination nationally and internationally. Puerto Plata’s presence at DATE 2025 underscores the strategic unity and commitment of its stakeholders towards collaborative promotion, sustainability, and the development of tourism in this competitive, authentic destination filled with real experiences.

Santiago becomes epicenter of Dominican tourism with Expoturismo 2025

Santiago de los Caballeros.- The tourism industry is gearing up for Expoturismo 2025, one of the most anticipated events of the year, set to take place from June 6 to 8 at the Hodelpa Gran Almirante Convention Center in Santiago. Now in its 28th edition, the trade fair promises innovation, networking, and new opportunities for tourism professionals and businesses both locally and internationally.

At a press conference on May 12, executive director Yomaris Gómez revealed that this year’s event is expected to set records in attendance and strategic partnerships. Ramón Paulino, president of the fair, announced tributes to two Santiago icons: Hotel Matum, marking its 70th anniversary, and the José de Jesús Marcano Botanical Garden, in recognition of their environmental and tourism contributions.

Expoturismo 2025 will feature top hotel brands including Meliá, Barceló, Bahía Príncipe, Viva Wyndham, and many others, along with over 300 travel agencies and tour operators. Airlines like Air Century, Copa Airlines, and Air Europa will also participate, as well as tourism clusters, hotel associations, and companies from various sectors such as gastronomy, technology, and transportation.

With strong institutional support from the Ministry of Tourism and key sponsors like Hodelpa Hotels & Resorts, Banreservas, and Santiago City Hall, Expoturismo continues to be a driving force in promoting Dominican tourism and fostering connections between industry leaders and the next generation of travelers and entrepreneurs.

TRS Turquesa Hotel in Punta Cana named among Forbes Travel Guide’s 2025 recommended hotels

Bávaro, La Altagracia.- The TRS Turquesa Hotel in Punta Cana, operated by the Palladium Hotel Group, has been named among the recommended hotels in the prestigious Forbes Travel Guide (FTG) Star Awards 2025, a recognition reserved for the world’s most exceptional luxury accommodations, restaurants, and spas.

Forbes Travel Guide is the only global rating system that independently evaluates luxury establishments through anonymous inspections based on up to 900 rigorous standards. TRS Turquesa, a five-star, adults-only resort, features 369 spacious suites—each over 40 square meters—with scenic views of gardens, pools, or the Caribbean Sea.

Guests at TRS Turquesa enjoy access to exclusive amenities, including four gourmet restaurants, six bars, two pools, a private beach, butler service, and the Zentropia Palladium Spa & Wellness Center. The hotel also offers access to neighboring Grand Palladium resorts and the acclaimed CHIC Cabaret & Restaurant, a vibrant dinner show with over 35 performers and a refined tasting menu.

Dominican Republic maintains record: 4.3 million visitors by April 2025

Santo Domingo.- Tourism in the Dominican Republic continues its upward trajectory, with 1,020,646 visitors recorded in April 2025, marking a 7% increase compared to April 2024. Tourism Minister David Collado shared the figures during a presentation in Santiago de los Caballeros, highlighting the sector’s consistent growth.

From January to April, the country welcomed a record 4,369,288 visitors, reflecting a 4% increase over the same period last year, 17% more than in 2023, and 50% more than in 2019. Of these visitors, over 3 million arrived by air, while nearly 1.3 million arrived by sea. Punta Cana Airport led air arrivals with 64%, followed by Las Américas (19%), Cibao (9%), Puerto Plata (6%), and La Romana (2%).

Collado also emphasized the success of the Holy Week period, during which 201,889 tourists visited, generating over US$242 million for the hotel industry and US$1.6 billion in agricultural sector purchases, with hotel occupancy surpassing 85%.

Punta Cana in top 3 of most underwhelming tourist cities globally

Santo Domingo.- Popular Dominican Republic resort destination Punta Cana has been ranked among the top three most underwhelming tourist cities worldwide in a new report by Radical Storage. The 2025 study, which analyzed a staggering 97,409 reviews from travelers across 100 of the globe’s most visited cities, reveals a significant disconnect between the idyllic image often portrayed and the actual experiences of visitors.

Punta Cana, renowned for its numerous all-inclusive resorts and stunning beaches, landed in third place on the list. The report highlights several key factors contributing to this dissatisfaction, including a perceived lack of authenticity, issues with deficient infrastructure, and the presence of aggressive vendors.

One particularly telling quote from a tourist in the report states, “A country that takes every dollar you have and then charges you to leave.” This sentiment underscores a feeling among some visitors that the tourist experience in Punta Cana is overly focused on extracting maximum financial gain, sometimes at the expense of genuine hospitality and value. Additionally, the city received the highest percentage of negative reviews mentioning rude service, accounting for 1.8% of the feedback.

Topping the list of underwhelming destinations were Cancún, Mexico, in the number one spot, and Antalya, Turkey, in second place. Cancún faced criticism for scams, inflated prices, and a lack of authenticity, while Antalya was flagged for over-commercialization and crowded beaches. Other cities in the top five included Beijing, China, and Orlando, USA, indicating that tourist disappointment can stem from a variety of factors across different types of destinations.

The Radical Storage report suggests that today’s travelers often arrive with high expectations, heavily influenced by carefully curated social media content and online travel guides. When the reality of a destination fails to live up to these idealized images, disappointment can be significant.

The findings for Punta Cana may prompt reflection among local tourism authorities and businesses on how to better align the visitor experience with the expectations of international travelers and address the specific concerns raised in the report.

Holy Week boosts hotel occupancy in Dominican Republic

Santo Domingo.- Aguie Lendor, executive vice president of Asonahores, reported that hotel occupancy rates in the Dominican Republic’s main tourist destinations have exceeded 90% during Holy Week. This surge is attributed to the overlap with the high travel season, which has increased demand in hotspots like Bávaro-Punta Cana, La Romana, and Puerto Plata.

Lendor noted that the eastern region, particularly Bávaro-Punta Cana, is experiencing the highest demand. Puerto Plata has reached a 94% occupancy rate, while La Romana is close behind at around 90%. Despite these high figures, hotel rooms are still available for last-minute travelers.

He clarified that a 90% occupancy rate does not mean all hotels are completely booked. “Some establishments are full, but others still have capacity,” Lendor explained, encouraging tourists to take advantage of the remaining availability, according to El Día.

Air Century launches new Santo Domingo–Bonaire route

Santo Domingo.- Air Century has announced a new seasonal route linking La Isabela International Airport in Santo Domingo with Flamingo International Airport in Bonaire, aimed at enhancing regional travel across the Caribbean. Starting June 18, the airline will operate weekly flights every Wednesday using its 50-seat MHI CRJ-200 aircraft. Introductory fares will begin at US$199 USD one way.

This new route marks a major step in improving accessibility between the Dominican Republic and Bonaire, offering a convenient and affordable travel option for both tourists and those visiting friends and family. It is expected to benefit cultural exchange and strengthen ties between the two islands.

The initiative is a joint effort between Air Century and the Bonaire Tourism Corporation. Officials from both sides expressed optimism about the route’s potential. Gregorio Matthew, Airport Operations Manager at BIA, emphasized the hospitality of the Dominican people, while Maarten van der Scheer, BIA’s director, highlighted the positive impact of competitive fares on travel accessibility for the Bonairean community.

Is the Dominican Republic the Silicon beach of startup culture?

The Dominican Republic has been setting the stage for startup culture for nearly a decade.
Is the DR startup ecosystem ready for global exposure?
Isn’t it called “Silicon Valley”?

The answer is: maybe.

The Dominican Republic is sending strong signals that it is becoming an international hub for innovation and entrepreneurship. Mirroring the USA’s Small Business Administration (SBA), enter RD-Emprende (DR does Business).

RD-Emprende is a sub-agency of the Dominican Ministry of Industry & Commerce (MICM), which launched in 2022. According to MICM, RD-Emprende brings together 38 entities that share resources to support the development of new companies. RD Emprende’s formation is part of a decade-long entrepreneurial movement in the Dominican Republic.

This movement was initiated in 2016 by then President Danilo Medina’s enactment of Entrepreneurship Law No. 655-16. This and other laws have been put into place to provide a very robust and comprehensive legal framework. This framework was built to make it easier for foreign businesses to operate within the DR for more substantial economic growth and development.
The Dominican president coined “Silicon Beach” BTW.

As part of a 2021 press release, President Luis Abinader announced “the urban development of 8.5 million square meters in Puerto Plata, where nine new world-class hotels and the “DR Silicon Beach” will be built.” This project is an “ecosystem of creativity and innovation where technology companies, national and international universities, research centers, corporations, and manufacturing will come together, and they will be able to set up shop and have all the facilities to develop their products and services.”

Between presidential announcements, friendly legislation, and public/private sector alliances, the DR still hasn’t produced a single economy-smashing tech startup or a startup culture that can rival its closest neighbor, Puerto Rico. Which, by the way, is home to Parallel 18, the largest international startup accelerator south of the United States.

So, what’s missing from the DR’s startup ecosystem?
In a big-picture view, it looks self-evident:

– Effective startup programming
– Mission, leadership, and vision
– Stronger collaboration within the corporate sector

In short, startup acceleration needs modernization. The incubation/accelerator scene in the DR is small but growing. Top acceleration programs include BOOST Acceleration Camp, CREE Banreservas, and Impúlsate Popular. The majority of these companies accept not only tech startups but SMBs as well.

In our analysis of acceleration programming in the DR, we observed a strong emphasis on mentorship, resourcing, and business formation. The problem is that the majority of industry leaders recruited to mentor startups are largely prestigious executives from big domestic industries. Great enterprise-level business savvy, but most lack real-world experience in startup growth.

As a startup in the Dominican Republic, revenue operations, accompanied by tactical support, world-class vendors, and experienced talent who have taken startups to market are still absent from the local ecosystem.

TechStars… is that you?
The most influential startup technology firms in the world, like Google, Amazon, and Uber, have internal innovation centers. The purpose is threefold:
1. Strategic and profitable venture capital investments that boost the company’s productivity, competitiveness, and market share.
2. Accelerate industry-focused technology from the talent that most closely drives industry innovation.
3. Remain at the competitive edge of market developments (remember Blockbuster vs Netflix?)

Large Dominican companies like Arajet in aviation and NewTech in software do not currently deploy VC initiatives to invest in or incubate startup technologies beneficial to tourism or nearshoring industries, respectively.

#PROVOKEVISIBILITY
In 2024, the #ProvokeVisibility Campaign was nominated by the United Nations World Summit Awards in the Dominican Republic to empower entrepreneurs’ economic growth and visibility on the Dominican startup scene. By creating a greater sense of pride and community around startup culture, more entrepreneurs will be effectively nurtured to world-class, economy-transforming status. In parallel, those same entrepreneurs provide modern resources, capital, and leadership to startups in the Dominican Republic.

A perfect example of the emphasis on the effect of startup culture is in many Asian countries, which place startup culture with celebrity status. This has led to rapid economic growth, industrialization, and national pride. Thus far, no one figure galvanizes Dominican startups like Steve Jobs did in the United States.

Laptop life: pick a beach!
The Dominican Republic is already prioritizing infrastructure, cybersecurity, and talent nearshoring on the list of strategic national interests. With greater collaboration and transparency among startup and innovation leaders, it will soon surpass Puerto Rico to become the region’s largest startup hub. Right now, for a scrappy and resourceful startup willing to take some extra steps, it’s a great location for digital nomads and startup founders alike.