The Council of Ministers has approved the “Startaruba – Phase 1 Ecosystem Analysis” action plan, marking a significant step in strengthening and structurally stimulating Aruba’s economy through innovation and entrepreneurship.
This project is part of the AVP-FUTURO 2025-2028 Government Program, directly aligning with Aruba’s commitment to creating a more resilient, diversified economy, as outlined in the Landspakket framework. The plan aims to prepare Aruba for future economic challenges and opportunities by focusing on innovation.
Aruba seeks to enhance its innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem more effectively. Recent analyses, including the Landspakket Aruba, the Deloitte Regional Development Report (2024), and the General Directorate for Kingdom Relations, indicate that the current ecosystem is fragmented and lacks the necessary conditions to facilitate growth for potential businesses.
As a result, the government has decided to begin with a comprehensive analytical phase before introducing management tools or scaling programs. Startaruba – Phase 1 will focus specifically on:
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Ecosystem analysis (including SWOT and stakeholder analysis)
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A strategic framework
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A roadmap for 2026-2027
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A proposal for an institutional framework
This phase creates a foundation upon which future decisions can be based and goals can be set.
Beyond its local relevance, this initiative is framed within the context of the Kingdom to develop an analytical methodology that could later be adapted for Curaçao and Sint Maarten. In this way, Aruba contributes to greater coherence and cooperation in the development of startup ecosystems in the Dutch Caribbean, while respecting the autonomy and real situations of each country.
The action plan clearly outlines the project’s scope. TWO-Nederland will finance Phase 1 exclusively, while future phases will be considered separately and require additional public and private financing. This confirms the government’s commitment to fiscal discipline, institutional clarity, and responsible management of public resources.
Minister of Finance, Economic Affairs, and Primary Sector, Geoffrey Wever, stated:
“If we want a strong and lasting economy, we must base our decisions on data, analysis, and long-term vision. Startaruba – Phase 1 is the foundation we need to ensure we make the right moves at the right time, with real impact on entrepreneurship, innovation, and economic growth for Aruba.”
With the approval of the action plan, the Government of Aruba reaffirms its structural and responsible focus on economic development, emphasizing collaboration, knowledge, and preparation for the future.
