Cartagena’s Influence on My Investment Journey
Cartagena has played a crucial role in shaping my path as an angel investor. The city’s vibrant culture and entrepreneurial spirit have consistently inspired my investment decisions.
Every visit brings fresh insights, making it an ideal place for discovering promising ventures. As I shared on LinkedIn, my connection to Cartagena has been instrumental in my growth as an investor.
From Bogota to Cartagena: A Pivotal Journey
A single trip can change everything. Traveling from Bogota to Cartagena opened my eyes to Colombia’s dynamic startup ecosystem. The city’s energy made me reconsider local investment opportunities. While exploring, I encountered innovative startups and saw their potential firsthand. This journey marked the beginning of my deep interest in Colombian entrepreneurship.
The 2018 World Cup: An Unexpected Inspiration
The 2018 World Cup fueled my passion for investment. Being in Colombia during the tournament, I experienced firsthand the excitement and unity among people.
This energy made me more curious about the local startup landscape. Inspired by this collective enthusiasm, I began exploring opportunities to invest in emerging businesses in Latin America.
Latin America’s Startup Boom
LatAm startups are on the rise, offering unique investment opportunities. My experiences in Cartagena, Medellín, and Bogota have revealed:
- A thriving entrepreneurial mindset – Founders tackling real-world challenges with innovative solutions.
- A collaborative environment – The support networks among startups drive rapid growth.
- Venture capital interest – Global investors increasingly see LatAm as a region with untapped potential.
The region’s startup ecosystem is evolving fast, and I believe now is the time to be part of this transformation.
Discovering Rappi and Y Combinator
Rappi was a turning point in my investment perspective. Seeing its rapid growth and connection to Y Combinator made me realize the potential for disruptive startups in Latin America.
This discovery reshaped my investment strategy, leading me to explore more high-growth companies in the region.
Nubank: A Case Study in Fintech Innovation
Nubank is a standout success story. Its approach to digital banking transformed financial access across Latin America. Studying Nubank’s growth has provided key insights into:
- Scalability of fintech solutions – Leveraging technology to democratize financial services.
- Customer-first innovation – A user-centric model that enhances engagement.
- Market expansion strategies – How Nubank scaled from Brazil to the rest of the region.
This case study reinforced my belief in the power of fintech to reshape economies.
The Power of Networking in Investments
Strong connections shape better investment decisions. Throughout my journey, relationships with founders, investors, and mentors have provided invaluable insights. These connections often lead to opportunities I wouldn’t have discovered alone.
Collaborating with C. Alex Estevez
Working with C. Alex Estevez deepened my focus on LatAm startups. Our collaboration began after my trip to Colombia, and since then, we’ve identified exciting ventures that align with our investment vision.
This partnership has not only led to great investments but also personal and professional growth.
Engagement with Picap LATAM
Investing in Picap LATAM was a strategic move. Their approach to transportation in Latin America directly addresses the region’s mobility challenges. Supporting Picap reinforced my belief in:
- Localized innovation – Solutions tailored to specific market needs.
- Scalability in transportation – The potential for rapid expansion.
- Impact-driven entrepreneurship – Creating solutions that genuinely improve people’s lives.
Key Encounters: Daniel R., Hector N., and Harlyn Pacheco
Meeting these visionary founders solidified my decision to invest in LatAm. Their insights into the local market opened my eyes to the region’s untapped potential. This encounter was a defining moment in my journey as an angel investor.
Family Trips to Cartagena: A Personal Reflection
Cartagena holds deep personal and professional significance. Traveling there with my family has given me valuable moments of reflection and inspiration.
2018 vs. Recent Visits
The city has evolved. Comparing my 2018 visit to recent trips, I see:
- A shift towards modern entrepreneurship – More startups and tech-driven ventures.
- Stronger startup communities – Increased collaboration and innovation.
- A growing international presence – More global investors interested in Cartagena’s business ecosystem.
The Timeless Charm of the Old City
Cartagena’s old city remains a place of inspiration. Its architecture, history, and energy remind me why I invest in innovation. The city’s unique blend of tradition and modernity reflects the entrepreneurial journey itself.
Final Thoughts: Entrepreneurship and Friendship
Investment is about more than just returns—it’s about relationships. My journey as an angel investor has been shaped by meaningful connections and collaborations.
The support and insights from fellow investors and founders have made this path even more rewarding.
