The Trade and Investment Promotion Agency of Costa Rica (PROCOMER) is implementing a major workforce development drive on Aug. 7, 2026, introducing 10,000 free Google Cloud and Artificial Intelligence scholarships to address critical skill gaps in high-value industries. This initiative targets the growing demand for specialized talent in cloud computing, AI, and data analytics, sectors that are increasingly vital for the country’s nearly 1,000 multinational companies. By enhancing the technical proficiency of the local workforce, PROCOMER aims to sustain Costa Rica’s attractiveness as an investment destination for knowledge-intensive operations.

The new scholarships are part of the Talent Up initiative, a component of the BID Group’s “América en el Centro” program. PROCOMER is responsible for implementation alongside a network of strategic partners. The first 5,000 scholarships were awarded during the Talent Costa Rica Job Fair on May 15. The remaining 5,000 scholarships continue to be available, with participants informed about eligibility requirements and training pathways during the event. These efforts are designed to improve employment access in sectors requiring up-to-date digital expertise.

This push complements the existing Talent Development Incentive for Exporting Companies and Free Trade Zone (FTZ) businesses, a permanent co-financing program launched in 2023. Since its inception, the incentive has benefited 10,349 people, including those approved in the second application round of this year. Through four annual application periods and year-round submissions, more than 2,800 additional people are set to receive training in advanced manufacturing, medical devices, services, and other export-oriented industries. Key training areas include English language proficiency, cybersecurity, quality management, and medical regulatory affairs.

Sector-Specific Talent Demand

A study conducted by PROCOMER highlights evolving talent needs across strategic industries as companies adopt automation and sophisticated technologies. Multinational service companies are increasingly seeking professionals with expertise in artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and cybersecurity. In the medical device sector, demand is concentrated in quality assurance, regulatory affairs, engineering, and advanced manufacturing. Meanwhile, agribusiness and agritech opportunities focus on quality management, certifications, production processes, and agricultural technologies, requiring professionals who combine technical and technological expertise.

Laura López, CEO of PROCOMER, emphasized that these initiatives respond to the real needs of strategic economic sectors. “Programs like these strengthen employability and help Costa Rica remain an attractive destination for high value-added industries,” López said. She noted that continuous promotion of training and upskilling mechanisms is essential to create employment opportunities and attract new investment projects in advanced manufacturing, digital technologies, and specialized services.

What the Numbers Show

The scale of PROCOMER’s intervention underscores a structural shift in Costa Rica’s labor market dynamics. With 10,349 individuals already benefited by the Talent Development Incentive since 2023, and an additional 10,000 free scholarships now available, the agency is addressing a significant volume of specialized training needs. The concentration of demand in high-tech fields such as AI and cloud computing, rather than traditional roles, indicates that multinational companies operating in the country are moving up the value chain. This suggests that future competitiveness will depend heavily on the speed and quality of this upskilling pipeline, particularly in sectors like medical devices and advanced manufacturing where regulatory and technical expertise are paramount.