economy
May 6, 2026
This is how venture capital is: growth rounds face challenges, while early investment resists
Miguel Vanegas Torres, venture partner of Impacta VC in Colombia. Photo: Courtesy
TL;DR
- Venture capital in Latin America is showing signs of recovery after a period of adjustment.
- There is a growing interest in supporting startups with purpose that solve structural problems.
- Fintech and AI-based models are major investment opportunities in the region.
- Colombia is a key market, benefiting from public-private articulation and advanced regulations like the Fintech Law.
- The entrepreneurial ecosystem is maturing, with founders focusing on profitability and resilience.
- Early-stage investment remains active, while growth-stage rounds face challenges.
- Key sectors for investment include fintech due to financial inclusion gaps and AI for its potential.
- Strengthening legal certainty and increasing visibility for new entrepreneurs are crucial for Colombia's ecosystem.
- Startups need a strong team, a solid technological base, and a clear purpose to attract investment.
- The mentality of Latin American founders has shifted towards building global companies.
- The venture capital industry in Latin America is projected to have a positive year in 2026.
- Startups need to be visible and demonstrate traction to attract investment in the current market.