Uruguay al Mundo: A New Program to Encourage More Uruguayan Companies to Expand into International Markets

Uruguay is taking a new step to strengthen its productive development with the launch of Uruguay al Mundo, a program designed to help more micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises, as well as startups, grow through internationalization.

The initiative provides non-reimbursable grants of up to US$ 20,000 to boost expansion into foreign markets, strengthen exports, and promote the presence of Uruguayan companies in new markets. The call for applications will remain openuntil March 26, 2026, on a competitive basis and subject to the availability of funds. All information and the application form are available at uruguayalmundo.uy.

The program is the result of a collaboration between the National Development Agency (ANDE), Uruguay XXI, the National Agency for Research and Innovation (ANII), the Uruguayan Technology Laboratory (LATU), and the Ministry of Industry, Energy, and Mining (MIEM), within the framework of the Uruguay Innova program, led by the Office of the President in coordination with ministries, agencies, and specialized institutes.

The initiative aims to foster a more dynamic, innovative, and sustainable economy by strengthening the research and innovation ecosystem and supporting companies at every stage of the export process. Each institution contributes technical expertise and experience to build a comprehensive pathway that facilitates international expansion.

Two tracks based on stage of development

The program offers two tracks tailored to each company’s level of development and international reach.

The Export track is aimed at companies that manufacture in Uruguay and sell abroad or are looking to begin doing so. The support aims to improve their production capacity, adapt products to the requirements of target markets, and develop international sales channels. Under this track, funding can cover up to 80% of the project, with a cap of US$10,000, while maintaining the company’s main operations in Uruguay and expanding its reach through exports.

For its part, the Internationalization track is designed for companies seeking to take the next step and establish themselves abroad, whether by opening offices, setting up commercial operations, or developing production activities in other countries. In this case, financial support can cover up to 80% of the project, with a cap of US$20,000, supporting the adaptation and growth of the business model in new markets.

Boosting Growth

Companies that export tend to be more productive, incorporate innovation, generate higher-quality jobs, and contribute to diversifying the country’s export portfolio. However, many face barriers to making the leap into international markets, such as a lack of information, validation costs, unfamiliarity with markets, or the need for specialized technical support.

Uruguay al Mundo was created to bridge these gaps and make the path to internationalization clearer, more accessible, and more achievable.