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Latin America and the Caribbean could significantly boost growth and reduce inequality through more competitive markets. Just how much? GDP per capita could jump by 11% and inequality could drop by 6%, according to the latest edition of the IDB’s flagship “Development in the Americas” (DIA) report series.
Drawing on new evidence, it shows how bold, well-designed policies can deliver real gains for consumers, workers, and businesses in telecommunications, banking, health, and other sectors.
The report tracks reforms underway – in a region where firms charge markups of 35% above cost, compared to 20% in more competitive markets – and it outlines three priorities to scale what works.
Learn more here. | | |
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Health care makes proven economic sense, with value we can measure in increased productivity and other indicators. But the real proof is the people whose lives are transformed.
In the Brazilian Amazon, the IDB, IDB Lab, and partners are delivering simple, low-cost solutions for eye care in places without medical infrastructure. Using a smartphone, a small camera attachment, and AI-powered image analysis, the “Village in Focus” project has provided more than 25,000 screenings in over 100 villages – as well as a replicable blueprint for inclusive health care innovations. Watch the project in action here.
And in Panama, the IDB is supporting the Ministry of Health and the National Secretariat for Disabilities to achieve universal neonatal hearing screening in all maternity wards. Meet the doctors, experts, and some of the young Panamanians who heard sounds for the first time in this video. | | |
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Where can you learn lessons from Argentina’s fiscal consolidation, discover how digital tools counter violence against women, and understand the value of transparency in the mining industry?
All in one place: the IDB’s revamped and consolidated blog site.
Find stories of development impact, fresh insights, and accessible research takeaways from our expert authors. Filter content by the topic and country of your choice – and follow the evolving discussion on improving lives in Latin America and the Caribbean. | | |
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El Salvador: Innovation in Action at GET Forum
The IDB Group’s flagship innovation event showcased regional entrepreneurs and the country’s status as an emerging hub for startups. Announcements included 10,000 scholarships to develop high-demand digital skills; a $3 million investment in early-stage startups; the regional GovTech Connect project; the first mapping of the venture capital ecosystem in the Caribbean; and a study on AI adoption.
Argentina: Advancing Urban Development
A $700 million credit line will expand access to basic services and promote orderly urban development, directly benefiting more than 100,000 households throughout the country.
Colombia: Expanding Private Credit in the Amazon
IDB Invest subscribed to Bancamía’s Amazon Bond, the first of its kind issued by a private financial institution, increasing access to financing for small businesses.
Brazil: Boosting Sanitation Services
A $2 billion credit line will promote universal basic sanitation, with an initial loan benefiting some 2.5 million people in Belo Horizonte.
The Bahamas: Enhancing Resilience to Flooding
Aligned with our ONE Caribbean program, the project will benefit nearly 300,000 residents of New Providence and millions of tourists with improved mobility in adverse weather conditions. | | |
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Over the past decade, the total value of contracts awarded to execute IDB projects reached about $31 billion – from transportation infrastructure in South America to water and sanitation services in the Caribbean.
Whether you are a new supplier or an experienced contractor, our newly streamlined procurement portal is your gateway to participating in projects that improve lives across Latin America and the Caribbean. Check your eligibility and prepare your bid using the resources here.
And learn about our BID for the Americas program, which is helping unlock diverse business opportunities in the region for companies from around the world. | | |
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Happy holidays and thank you for following our work all year! | |
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The Inter-American Development Bank Group (IDB Group) is the leading source of financing and knowledge for improving lives in Latin America and the Caribbean. It comprises the IDB, which works with the region's public sector and enables the private sector; IDB Invest, which directly supports private companies and projects; and
IDB Lab,
which spurs entrepreneurial innovation. | |
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