StartAruba Opens Doors for Aruban Startups to Enter the US Market.
ORANJESTAD – StartAruba, in collaboration with the Consulate General of the Netherlands in Atlanta, the Ministry of Finance, Economic Affairs and Primary Sector, Impact Hub Aruba, Setar N.V., Aruba Bank, Frapa Real Estate, and other strategic partners, is launching an innovative mission to bring 10 Aruban startups to Atlanta.
The initiative aims to connect these startups with the US market, provide access to international training and workshops, enhance market knowledge, develop pricing strategies, attract investment, and drive product development.
This milestone marks a historic moment for Aruba, as it is the first mission organized specifically for startups. Participants will receive training facilitated by the Consulate General of the Netherlands in Atlanta and take part in Venture Atlanta, one of the largest innovation and technology startup conferences in the region. The program also includes meetings with investors and mentors, as well as visits to prominent Innovation Hubs and Tech Labs in Atlanta. Additionally, all participants will receive pitch training to help them effectively present their products and ideas to international audiences.
The startup mission is designed to strengthen local startups, expand access to the US market, and accelerate the growth of Aruban companies. Minister of Finance, Economic Affairs, and Primary Sector, Mr. Geoffrey Wever, highlighted this as a major achievement for the Aruban government, underscoring the island’s commitment to building a diversified and resilient economy.
StartAruba leader Michael Dooijes, who has over 15 years of experience working with startups in Silicon Valley, expressed his appreciation for the strong support from both the government and private sector partners, noting the significant entrepreneurial potential in Aruba.
Mary-Ann Falconi-Rasmijn, Managing Director of Impact Hub Aruba, will oversee participant preparation and provide mentorship to ensure startups are ready to showcase their ideas on an international stage.
StartAruba, the Government of Aruba, the Consulate General of the Netherlands in Atlanta, Impact Hub Aruba, Setar N.V., Aruba Bank N.V., Frapa Real Estate, the Department of Economic Affairs, Trade and Industry, the Aruba Chamber of Commerce, the Association of Netherlands Enterprise Agency (VNO), the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO), and Aruba’s diplomatic representatives in the US, support the mission.
Each startup will pay a $500 participation fee, while the Aruban government and sponsors will cover travel and accommodation costs for the selected participants.
Startups interested in participating can pre-register to receive updates. All participants must be officially registered with the Aruba Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Official registration opens on September 10 and closes on September 24, 2025. A selection committee will evaluate applications based on scalability, competitiveness, and innovation, followed by an online presentation with the committee.
Entrepreneurs can register at www.startaruba.com.
The mission will take place from October 13 to 17, 2025.
