Edition
Quick Access
TripBook
Complete event guide & participant directory
Exit Survey
Tell us how ACE Barranquilla went for you
- - Sign in at the registration desk to receive your badge and welcome materials.
- Ana María Badel, Head of International Affairs of the City of Barranquilla
- - Guided tour - Mallorquin Wetland EcoPark
- Welcome remarks
- Carlos Plata, Vice President of Investment, ProColombia
- H.E. Leandro Rizzuto, Ambassador of the United States of America to the Organization of American States
- H.E. Albert R. Ramdin, Secretary General, Organization of American States
- Alejandro Char, Mayor of Barranquilla
- Vicky Osorio, Executive Director, ProBarranquilla
- Institutional presentation by the City of Barranquilla
- Dra. Ana María Aljure, City Manager of Barranquilla
Foundever is a global leader in customer experience (CX) solutions, providing customer service, technical support, sales, and business process outsourcing services to leading brands worldwide. In Colombia, Foundever combines skilled talent, technology, and operational expertise to deliver high-quality customer experiences across multiple industries.
- - Foundever: Global Operations, Strategic Impact, and Market Presence
- - Panel Discussion: Developing Bilingual Talent for Global Opportunities
- Moderator:
- Paola Amar, Secretary of Education, Barranquilla
- Speakers:
- Celina Torres, Senior Business Unit Director, Foundever
- Reynaldo Villarreal, CEO, AudacIA
- Felipe villar, Director British Council Colombia
- César Antonio Berrio Remolina, Crack the code beneficiary
- Group photo
- Networking Lunch with City of Barranquilla, ProBarranquilla, Caribe Exponencial, Local Guilds, and Association
The Magdalena River has played a central role in Barranquilla’s history, economic development, and identity. In recent years, the city has undertaken an ambitious urban transformation to reconnect its residents with the riverfront, creating new public spaces, recreational areas, and opportunities for tourism, culture, and economic activity.
- Dra. Ana María Aljure, City Manager of Barranquilla
- Alex de Bedout, Puerta de Oro
- Group photo
A flagship of Barranquilla’s urban transformation, the riverfront reconnects the city with the Magdalena River, reestablishing it as a central driver of development. More than a public space, it is a living symbol of how strategic urban interventions reshape identity, strengthen community cohesion, and position the city as a vibrant Latin American destination.
- - Bus Tour
Luna del Río is a landmark attraction within Barranquilla’s Gran Malecón and an important component of the city’s broader urban transformation strategy. Overlooking the Magdalena River, the panoramic Ferris wheel offers visitors a unique perspective of the riverfront, the city skyline, and the surrounding natural landscape. Beyond its tourism value, Luna del Río reflects Barranquilla’s continued investment in high-quality public spaces, destination development, and urban infrastructure, strengthening the city’s positioning as a dynamic and competitive hub for business, tourism, and international engagement.
- Alejandro Char, Mayor of Barranquilla
- Group photo
Powerful example of how culture, art, and collaboration can drive urban transformation and strengthen community identity. Located in one of Barranquilla’s most emblematic neighborhoods, known as a cradle of Carnival traditions and Caribbean heritage, the initiative has transformed streets and façades into a vibrant open-air gallery that celebrates the city’s history, traditions, and cultural legacy. As a committed partner in local development, Alianza Team has supported spaces that foster community engagement, public-space revitalization, and cultural pride, helping create lasting social value.
- Herman Castellanos, Vice President, Retail Solutions, Alianza Team
- Carlos Montoya, City Manager Advisor
- Jhonny Insignares, Secretary of Culture, Barranquilla
- Group photo
Producer of high-performance architectural glass and aluminum systems for the construction and real estate sectors, Tecnoglass is a leading export-driven manufacturer with approximately 95% of sales in the United States, positioning Barranquilla as a strategic hub for North American building markets. Listed on the NYSE under TGLS as the first Colombian company to trade there and valued at over USD 4 billion, it reflects strong global investor confidence and the city’s capacity for world-class, innovation-led manufacturing from a Caribbean base.
- - Welcome remarks
- Andrea Zambrano, General Counsel, Compliance Officer and Head of Corporate Affairs at Tecnoglass
- - Site visit
- 1. Solartec
- 2. Alutions #3
- 3. Sorting #3
- - Networking Session
- Tecnoglass Showroom
- Group photo
AudacIA is the Center of Excellence in Artificial Intelligence and Robotics of Universidad Simón Bolívar in Barranquilla and has been recognized by the Organization of American States as a Center of Excellence in Transformative Technologies. It brings together academia, government, the private sector, and civil society to develop applied solutions using artificial intelligence, robotics, data analytics, and engineering. Its work addresses areas such as education, health, mobility, sustainability, and public services, positioning Barranquilla as an emerging hub for technology and innovation in Latin America.
- - Site visit of the AudacIA Center
- Showcasing its AI and Robotics capabilities, key initiatives, projects, and applied AI experiences.
- Group photo
- - Universidad Simón Bolívar Institutional Presentation
- - Applied AI: Successful Business Applications
- -VIU Clínica Oftalmológica Internacional
- -JR Power Quality
- -Daabon
- Executive Networking Lunch
Riwi and Blackbird Labs powered by Riwi form an integrated technology and talent ecosystem that connects skills development with real business needs. Riwi prepares high-performance technology talent through intensive technical training, practical projects, agile methodologies, English, and socio-emotional skills, while Blackbird Labs delivers B2B talent and software solutions in areas such as development, AI, automation, data, DevOps, integrations, and technology consulting. Together, they bridge training, professional growth, and business execution to create sustainable value for talent, companies, and the broader technology ecosystem.
- - Riwi: Building Talent and Strengthening Communities
- Paola Amar, Secretary of Education, Barranquilla
- Sara Pérez, Growth Market Leader
- Mauricio Moreno, Sales Manager
- María Alejandra Camargo, Regional Leader
- José Serrano, Business Developer
- - Site visit
- The delegation will be divided into three groups for the rotation through the different experience stations
- 1. From Coder to Developer – Conversation between a coder currently in training and a RIWI graduate/developer, highlighting the learning journey and career transformation.
- 2. Blackbird Labs: From Challenge to Measurable Value - How real-world challenges are transformed into innovative solutions and measurable business value.
- 3. Stories from the Ecosystem – Firsthand testimonials from individuals involved in RIWI operations and projects.
- 4. Barranquilla Learns – Introduction to the broader learning ecosystem and its contribution to talent development and regional growth.
- - Networking session
- Group photo
- Group photo
Strategically located at the mouth of the Magdalena River, the Port of Barranquilla is one of Colombia’s most important gateways to global commerce. Its privileged location and multimodal connectivity link the country’s principal inland waterway with the Caribbean Sea, facilitating access to major domestic and international markets. As a cornerstone of the region’s logistics and industrial ecosystem, the port strengthens trade competitiveness, attracts investment, and reinforces Barranquilla’s position as a leading hub for business and economic development in the Americas.
- - Safety briefing
- - Welcome remarks
- - Panel: From the Caribbean to the World: Logistics, Connectivity & Opportunities for Foreign Trade
- Elsa Noguera, Minister of Transportation of Colombia
- Manuel Buitrago, President, Port of Barranquilla
- Carolina Herrera, Director, Maritime and Port Chamber, ANDI
- José Curvelo, Office of Port Affairs, City of Barranquilla
- - Coffee break & Networking session
- - Panoramic port visit
- Group photo
Is a strategic industrial, logistics, and export platform located in Barranquilla, designed to support national and international companies seeking efficient access to global markets. Its proximity to the Port of Barranquilla, Ernesto Cortissoz International Airport, and major Caribbean shipping routes provides strong connectivity to the United States, the Caribbean, and other international destinations. The free trade zone offers modern industrial infrastructure along with tax and customs incentives that can improve operating efficiency and export competitiveness.
- - Opening Remarks: La Cayena Free Trade Zone as a Strategic Hub for Nearshoring, Industrial Growth, and International Investment.
- María Alejandra Henríquez, Head of Inbound FDI Attraction, ProBarranquilla
- - Panel Discussion: Barranquilla’s Nearshoring Advantage: Building Competitive Global Value Chains
- Moderator:
- Freisy Quintero, Communications Chief, La Cayena Free Trade Zone
- Speakers:
- Roberto Gutiérrez, CEO, Hada International
- David Gasull, VP International, Managing Partner at StepUp Andamios
- Philip Boulton, Founder, KANNOA
- Diego Corzo, President, Garsite Latam
- Lunch
- -Site visit:
- - Hada
- - Garsite Latam
- - Kannoa
- Group photo
AmCham’s mission is to promote trade, investment, and free enterprise, focused on the commercial interests of Colombia’s Caribbean region and the United States, while fostering business relations in hemispheric and global markets. With a 27-year track record and a network representing over 200 affiliated companies, AmCham serves as a key trade facilitator, offering market intelligence, business matchmaking, international trade missions, and strategic B2B connections between the region and the U.S.
- - Welcome Remarks. Official opening: AmCham Atlántico & Magdalena leadership, introducing the economic vision and trade potential of the region.
- - Presentation: U.S. Bilateral Work & Regional Opportunities. Keynote presentation highlighting strategic commercial initiatives, trade alignment, and cross-border expansion opportunities between the Atlántico/Magdalena region and the United States.
- - Strategic Networking Session: Targeted interaction connecting ACE delegates with member company executives, key local entrepreneurs, and investors to explore concrete trade, commercial partnerships, and investment pathways.
- - Welcome & Opening Remarks
- María Alejandra Henríquez, Head of Inbound FDI Attraction, ProBarranquilla
- - Powering Barranquilla’s Growth: Energy Projects and Investment Opportunities.
- Carlos Sarabia, Manager, K-YENA S.A.S.
- - Panel Discussion: Leveraging Energy Resources for Economic Growth and Competitiveness
- Moderator:
- Laura Carreño, Director of CatalHyst-BDI - German Federation of Industries
- Speakers:
- José Rosales, Commercial Manager, TEBSA
- Marcelo Alvarez, Vice President of Generation, Celsia
- Alfonso Vergara, CFO, Amazonica
- Promigas
- - Coffee Break and Networking Session
Universidad del Norte (Uninorte) is a leading private, non-profit university in Colombia’s Caribbean region. Its mission combines academic excellence, research, innovation, and social impact, with a strong commitment to advancing economic development and competitiveness of the Colombian Caribbean. Uninorte brings together multidisciplinary expertise in engineering and energy, coastal and marine sciences, sustainability, business and entrepreneurship, health, data science and AI, urban development, social sciences, and education. Its research ecosystem includes 45 institutional research groups, complemented by laboratories, technology-transfer capabilities, and programs that develop research talent.
- - Welcome Remarks
- Adolfo Meisel Roca, Rector of Universidad del Norte
- - Uninorte Research, Innovation & Collaboration Capabilities
- Javier Páez, Vice President for Research, Creation and Innovation.
- - Research & Innovation Showcase:
- Aymer Maturana, Blue energy
- Juan Camilo Restrepo, Coastal Resilience
- Carlos Arteta, Resilient Infrastructure
- Jorge Vélez, AI and Precision Medicine
- Edgar Navarro, Data for Public Health
- Daniel Rodríguez, Rediscovering Betoma
- Group photo
Promigas is a Barranquilla-based energy infrastructure company with more than five decades of experience connecting markets to reliable energy sources across Colombia and the region. A pioneer in the development of Colombia’s natural gas industry, the company transports more than half of the country’s natural gas through over 3,200 kilometers of pipeline infrastructure and, through its portfolio of companies, operates across natural gas transportation and distribution, LNG regasification, power generation and distribution, and integrated energy services for industry. Promigas also operates, through SPEC LNG, Colombia’s only LNG regasification terminal, a strategic asset that strengthens the reliability and security of the country’s energy supply.
- Group photo
- - Institutional Presentation
- Marco Sanjuan, Innovation Manager, Promigas
- - Site visit
- - Energy Innovation
- - Operation Control Center
- - Digital Hub
- - Networking reception
Known as the home of Colombia’s National Football Team, the Estadio Metropolitano blends football tradition with a bold new vision. Following its landmark 2026 renovation, the stadium emerges as a world-class venue with expanded seating, upgraded infrastructure, and an enhanced fan experience, reinforcing Barranquilla’s status as one of South America’s premier destinations for international sporting events.
- - Barranquilla, a City of Sport – City Strategy
- Daniel Trujillo, Secretary of Sports and Recreation, Barranquilla
- Group photo
Cultural and creative hub, where art, innovation, and Caribbean talent come together. Home to the District School of Arts, it serves as a dynamic space for artistic creation, learning, performances, and the development of the region’s creative industries.
- Jhonny Insignares, Secretary of Culture, Barranquilla
- - Site visit
- Group photo
- Lunch
Vibrant cultural institution that celebrates the history, traditions, music, dance, and creativity of the city’s internationally renowned Carnival. Through colorful costumes, interactive displays, audiovisual experiences, and historical exhibits, the museum offers visitors an immersive look at one of Colombia’s most iconic cultural celebrations. Located in the historic Barrio Abajo, the venue brings together exhibitions, costumes, music, dance, and community initiatives that showcase the creativity and cultural identity behind the Carnival. It also highlights the economic importance of Barranquilla’s creative industries, demonstrating how culture, tourism, entrepreneurship, and local talent contribute to the city’s international visibility and economic development.
- - Site visit
- Diana Acosta, Director of the Barranquilla Carnival
Casa del Carnaval is a cultural landmark dedicated to preserving, promoting, and celebrating the traditions of the Barranquilla Carnival, one of Colombia’s most important and internationally recognized cultural expressions.
- Alejandro Char, Mayor, City of Barranquilla
- H.E. Leandro Rizzuto, Ambassador of the United States of America to the Organization of American States
- Barbara Kotschwar, Director of Economic Development, Organization of American States
- - ACE Barranquilla Highlights
- - Announcement of the Next ACE Edition
- - Presentation of Certificates
- - Cultural exhibition of the Carnival of Barranquilla
- The service includes:
- VIP Direct Transfer: Travel from Barranquilla to Cartagena in a fully airconditioned tourist van.
- Totumo Mud Volcano Photo Stop: A brief stop to capture photos at this iconic natural landmark of the region.
- "Monuments of the Heroic City" City Tour: A private guided tour of the main landmarks: the iconic Cartagena sign, the Republican architecture of Manga Island, La Popa Monastery, and the imposing San Felipe de Barajas Fort.
- AllInclusive Admission: Reserved, skiptheline access to La Popa Monastery and San Felipe Castle.
- Curated Walking Tour (Afternoon): A historical walking tour through the colorful streets of the Getsemaní neighborhood and the Walled City, led by a certified bilingual guide.
- Onboard Amenities: Premium hydration provided throughout the entire journey.
- AllInclusive Service:
- Ground Logistics: Private roundtrip transfers (Hotel / Departure Port / Hotel).
- Speedboat Navigation: Secure and exclusive speedboat transfer.
- Signature Welcome: Premium welcome cocktail upon arrival.
- Optional Experiences
- Guided Snorkeling: COP 90,000
- Relaxation Massages: Starting at COP 100,000
- Oceanarium Admission: Adults: COP 40,000 | Children: COP 30,000
- Ecological Hiking: COP 90,000
- Curated Lunch Options:
- Highend buffet featuring traditional fish, fish fillet, chicken breast, bistec criollo (steak), pasta, or a special vegetarian menu. Includes dessert and singleorigin Colombian coffee.
- Beach Amenities: Sunbeds, beach towels, access to
Foundever
Day 1Casa Independiente
Day 1Magdalena River Cruise
Day 1Gran Malecón del Río
Day 1Luna del Río
Day 1Barrio Abajo - Museo a Cielo Abierto
Day 1
Tecnoglass
Day 2
AudacIA - Universidad Simón Bolivar
Day 2
Riwi Digital Innovation Center
Day 2Edificio Antiguo de la Aduana
Day 2
Port of Barranquilla
Day 3
La Cayena Free Trade Zone
Day 3Garsite Latam ZF
Day 3Stepup Andamios – Barranquilla Manufacturing Facility
Day 3Kannoa
Day 3Colombian American Chamber of Commerce, AmCham Atlántico & Magdalena
Day 3Energy Competitiveness Forum
Day 4
Universidad del Norte
Day 4
Promigas
Day 4Barranquilla Chamber of Commerce
Day 4Estadio Metropolitano
Day 5Fabrica de Cultura
Day 5
Casa del Carnaval
Day 5OPTIONAL visit to Cartagena
OptionalBarranquilla Marriott Hotel
CL 1A #25-40 Lote D7, Portal de Genovés, Puerto Colombia, Atlántico
Your stay
September 27, 2026
October 3, 2026
CL 1A #25-40 Lote D7, Portal de Genovés
Puerto Colombia, Atlántico
Reservations
Elber Berti and Walter Rojas
Rates and policies
The rate offered to the group is only valid when reservations are made through the link provided.
The deadline for the preferential rate is September 14, 2026.
STANDARD ROOM 1 person · taxes not included — USD $133 — Breakfast is included
STANDARD ROOM 2 people · taxes not included — USD $144 — Breakfast is included
Tax exemption for foreigners applies if the lodging rate includes breakfast and if the guest receives a “PT” stamp from immigration in their passport upon entering the country.
Cancellation policy. Non-refundable rate: once the reservation is confirmed, cancellations will not be accepted; any cancellation request will result in a penalty equal to the full cost of the stay.
Incidental charges. At check-in, guests are asked to provide a credit card as a guarantee for incidental charges, but no charges are made to the card. Guests must go to the front desk to check out and present their physical credit card or cash to pay for these charges.
SERVICES AND AMENITIES
Elegant Accommodations
Barranquilla Marriott Hotel offers 5-star comfort with family rooms and modern amenities. Each room features airconditioning, a wardrobe, and free WiFi.
Exceptional Facilities
Guests can enjoy a fitness center, year-round outdoor swimming pool, restaurant, and bar. Additional services include a paid shuttle, public bath, fitness room, 24-hour front desk, pool bar, family rooms, full-day security, bicycle parking, room service, tour desk, and luggage storage.
Dining Experience
The family-friendly restaurant serves brunch, lunch, dinner, and cocktails in a modern ambiance. Vegetarian options are available, and the barbecue grill offers a variety of meals.
Prime Location
Located 12 mi from Ernesto Cortissoz International Airport, the hotel is near attractions such as Del Norte University (16-minute walk), and Buenavista Shopping Mall (1.7 mi). Highly rated for staff, room comfort, and cleanliness.
AIRPORT INFORMATION
- International visitors arriving to Barranquilla typically use two main gateways on Colombia’s Caribbean coast:
- Ernesto Cortissoz International AirportPrimary airport for Barranquilla, located in Soledad, approximately 40 minutes from the Barranquilla Marriott Hotel depending on traffic, and offers the most direct access to the city.
- Rafael Núñez International AirportAlternative international entry point, located in Cartagena, is an approximate distance of 2 hours by road from Barranquilla.
- AIRLINESAvianca · American Airlines · Copa Airlines · Latam
VISA REQUIREMENTS
- Information for entering Colombia
- Please refer to the following link to review information on how to obtain a visa if needed:
- https://www.cancilleria.gov.co/tramites_servicios/visa/requisitos
GROUND TRANSPORTATION
- Transportation options from the airport include taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber, Didi, InDriver and Cabify.
- Guests who wish to book a private transfer in advance may contact Aviatur or Berlinas to arrange their transportation:
- AviaturMayra Caceres · mayra.caceres@aviatur.com
- BerlinasJuan David Ruiz Puerto · turismocosta@berlinasdelfonce.com
- Please mention that you will be joining ACE Barranquilla.
WEATHER INFORMATION
- DAYTIME HIGHS 32 °C · NIGHTTIME LOWS 25 °C · CHANCE OF RAINFALL 40 – 45%
- In late September and early October, Barranquilla experiences warm tropical weather, with average daytime highs around 90 °F (32 °C) and nighttime lows near 77 °F (25 °C). This period falls within the city’s rainy season, so participants should expect high humidity and occasional tropical showers or thunderstorms, which are often brief but can be intense.
- Despite the rainfall, sunny and warm conditions are still common throughout the day, with temperatures typically ranging from 25 °C to 32 °C (77 °F–90 °F).
- Lightweight clothing, comfortable footwear, and an umbrella or light rain jacket are recommended.
DRESS CODE
- The default dress code for ACE is business/business casual attire. It is recommended that participants wear comfortable shoes throughout the six-day program. More details about the dress code for each day and activity will be provided by the organizers closer to the event.
CURRENCY
- Pesos Colombianos (COP)
- 1 USD = $ 3,130 pesos (Ago 12, 2026)
VOLTAGE & OUTLET TYPE
- Standard voltage: 120 V (typical range 110–120 V)
- Standard frequency: 60 Hz
- Plug / outlet type: Type A and Type B
- Type A: two flat pins
- Type B: two flat pins + a round grounding pin
LOGISTICS AND BUDGET
- The Program Organizers will provide the following to selected participants at no cost:
- Local transportation by bus between program sites in the City of Barranquilla.
- VIP access to sites and experts.
- Meals during official program hours of ACE Barranquilla.
- Preferential rates at the official ACE Barranquilla hotel.
- Access to advisory support and facilitators from the City of Barranquilla, stakeholder institutions and authorities, as well as OAS officials.
- Logistical support and dedicated support from the ACE Committee for the duration of the program.
- Selected participants will be responsible for:
- Airfare to and from Barranquilla, Colombia.
- Booking and covering the cost of their hotel accommodations in Barranquilla for the duration of the program in the ACE-selected hotels.
- Airport-hotel transportation and hotel-airport transportation.
- Meals outside of program hours.
- Other miscellaneous expenses.
- Limited financial assistance may be available upon request and will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Smart Infrastructure and Strategic Investments
Barranquilla demonstrates how urban planning, land management, and infrastructure development can drive competitiveness by integrating environmental restoration, tourism growth, and real estate value creation into a model that offers valuable lessons for cities across Latin America.
Its approach emphasizes energy-efficient and resilient urban development while advancing solutions aligned with global trends in future-ready cities. Barranquilla’s strategic location, industrial capabilities, and sustained urban expansion continue to strengthen its position as a competitive platform for real estate, infrastructure, and urban innovation.
The city’s built-environment ecosystem is supported by more than 10,000 companies and 65,000 jobs spanning residential, commercial, industrial, and logistics activities.
Digital Services, Advanced Technologies, and Workforce Development
Barranquilla is advancing a strategy focused on strengthening human capital and expanding the skills required for a digital and globally connected economy. Efforts to enhance digital competencies and bilingual capabilities are helping address workforce gaps while supporting the needs of priority sectors.
Collaboration among industry, academia, and workforce development institutions supports the adoption of advanced technologies and the preparation of talent for emerging economic opportunities. This approach supports greater productivity, competitiveness, and readiness for digital transformation.
Industrial Value Chains, Nearshoring, and Trade Integration
Barranquilla is strengthening its role as a nearshoring destination in the Americas by leveraging its logistics infrastructure, industrial base, and connectivity to regional and international markets.
The city’s export-oriented industries, together with its strategic location and trade infrastructure, support investment attraction and integration into global value chains. These conditions create opportunities for companies seeking efficient access to markets while enhancing the region’s industrial and trade competitiveness.
Energy Competitiveness
Energy transition is increasingly integrated into Barranquilla’s competitiveness agenda, supporting the development of resilient infrastructure and new economic opportunities. The city is emerging as one of Colombia’s leading energy hubs, with more than 2,000 companies participating across the energy value chain.
Barranquilla has developed a modern and diversified energy mix.
Barranquilla has also been recognized by Germany’s Fraunhofer Institute as a potential hub for low-carbon hydrogen and Power-to-X solutions, reinforcing its potential as a hub for large-scale clean energy production, transformation, and export.
Culture, Sports, and the Creative Economy
Barranquilla leverages its cultural identity and sports infrastructure as assets that contribute to international visibility, tourism, and economic development.
The city’s creative and cultural ecosystem supports talent development, entrepreneurship, and the growth of creative industries. Together with sports-related assets and events, these strengths contribute to a broader strategy that advances competitiveness, innovation, and economic growth.