GEW 2025 brings free business events to boost innovation
Puerto Rico will join more than 180 countries in marking Global Entrepreneurship Week from Nov. 17-23, with a schedule of free events aimed at strengthening the island’s business ecosystem.
Coordinated by YEES and Colmena66, the initiative seeks to “create real connections, highlight growth opportunities and strengthen the country’s business ecosystem” through talks, workshops, forums and networking sessions.
Under the motto “Connect, Learn, Empower,” the week will serve as a meeting point for founders, investors, mentors and early-stage entrepreneurs. Organizers said the activities are designed for participants at all stages, from idea development to expansion and investment readiness.
“For YEES, Global Business Week represents much more than a celebration; it is the culmination of over a decade of collaboration between the local and global business ecosystem,” said Carlos Jiménez, YEES’s state coordinator.
“Through this partnership, we promote the acquisition of practical tools, real support and experiences that strengthen the development of every entrepreneur, regardless of their stage of growth. This way, we positively impact economic growth and promote the creation of wealth,” he said.
Bárbara Rivera of Colmena66 emphasized collaboration and access.
“For Colmena66, a supportive community is key to undertaking and driving Puerto Rico’s economic development,” she said. “This celebration allows us to highlight and centralize access to resources with events and workshops that educate and inspire our entrepreneurs to maximize their potential, thereby strengthening Puerto Rico’s economy.”
This year’s programming includes Parallel18’s DemoDay for its Generation 13 startups; virtual workshops by the Center for Entrepreneurs for first-time founders; a B2B sales and business development seminar at the Puerto Rico Manufacturers Association; an Artificial Intelligence BootCamp focused on business applications; and “Connect and Grow,” a community networking event.
Organizers encouraged entrepreneurs to take part in the weeklong agenda to help expand innovation, business creation and economic growth on the island.


