The government of President Nayib Bukele continues promoting initiatives aimed at strengthening economic development and expanding opportunities for young Salvadorans through the launch of the “Up Digital: Your Talent Does Have a Future” project.
The initiative focuses on youth employment, digitalization, and support for startups and small businesses, providing tools and mentorship to help young people develop competitive digital skills. The program is funded with a €7.5 million investment donated by the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, reinforcing international cooperation in support of El Salvador’s digital transformation.
According to María Luisa Hayem, Minister of Economy of El Salvador, the project will also include the creation of an Innovation Center where young entrepreneurs will receive guidance from specialists and technology companies to help transform their ideas into viable business projects.
Through the program, approximately 2,500 young people between the ages of 18 and 35 will gain access to improved employment opportunities via the Opportunities Platform led by the Ministry of Labor of El Salvador, which connects trained digital talent with companies seeking skilled professionals.
Minister of Labor Rolando Castro highlighted that investing in young people is essential for building the country’s future and strengthening employability in the digital economy.
Meanwhile, Paul Steiner, president of the National Commission for Micro and Small Enterprises, emphasized that the project will also provide mentorship in entrepreneurship, business planning, and management to help emerging businesses grow.
The initiative will run for five years and will be supported by the El Salvador Agency for International Cooperation, whose director Karla de Palma noted that the program will promote digital transformation, job creation, and collaboration with the private sector.
With projects such as “Up Digital,” El Salvador continues strengthening its digital employment ecosystem, reinforcing the country’s position as a growing hub for innovation and economic development in the region.
