Startup Launchpad
CITI’s acceleration program for young businesses in Curaçao: coaching, practical workshops, and a pitch competition. Running since 2017.

Startup Launchpad 2026
About Startup Launchpad
What is Startup Launchpad?
Startup Launchpad is an intensive business acceleration program designed for entrepreneurs with an existing business.
Throughout the program, you’ll work alongside experienced business coaches and industry experts to strengthen every aspect of your company, from strategy and finance to branding, marketing, and growth.
You’ll leave with practical tools, valuable insights, and a clear roadmap for your business.
The 2026 group has started, and applications for this round are closed. Ask CITI about the next group.
Who it is for
Startup Launchpad is for entrepreneurs who:
- Have an existing business between 0 and 3 years old
- Want to grow their customer base
- Want to increase sales and profitability
- Need a stronger business strategy
- Want to improve their marketing and branding
- Want guidance from experienced professionals
- Are committed to taking their business to the next level
What you’ll learn
During the program you’ll work on topics such as:
- Business strategy
- Customer growth
- Marketing and branding
- Financial planning
- Pricing strategies
- Sales techniques
- Digital tools and AI
- Business operations
- Pitching your business
- Growth planning
Every session is practical, interactive, and immediately applicable to your business.
What each group receives
Each group receives:
- Expert coaching from experienced entrepreneurs and professionals
- Practical workshops focused on real business challenges
- Personalized guidance throughout the program
- Valuable networking opportunities
- Feedback from industry experts
- Access to the Startup Launchpad Pitch Competition
- The opportunity to compete for business support prizes
History
Startup Launchpad was launched in September 2017 by CITI and the Ministry of Economic Development, with EU financing through OCTA. HQ Rental Software won the first edition. The 2024 and 2025 editions focused on tourism.
At a glance
- For
- Entrepreneurs with an existing business that is 0 to 3 years old
- Focus area
- Business development
- Kind of work
- Program
- Editions
- 5 editions, 2017 to 2026
Earlier editions
- Ended
2025
Startup Launchpad 2025
The 8th edition: a six-month accelerator in three rounds, focused on tourism and hospitality, with a first pitch competition on 6 and 7 October 2025.
Read this edition - Ended
2024
Startup Launchpad 2024
The 2024 edition focused on tourism. Odile Micheletti of Kayenne Caribbean Ventures won the pitch competition.
Read this edition - Ended
2019
Startup Launchpad 2019
Applications were open until 27 September 2019. Up to five startups could win knowledge and technology vouchers of up to ANG 10,000.
Read this edition - Ended
2 November 2017 – 22 August 2018
Startup Launchpad 2017
The first edition. Fifteen entrepreneurs started on 2 November 2017. HQ Rental Software won the final on 22 August 2018.
Read this edition
Past events
Updates

Startup Launchpad 2026 has kicked off
Startup Launchpad 2026 is in Round One. The first pitch competition is on 29 October 2026 and will help decide which entrepreneurs move on to the next phase.

Odile Micheletti wins Startup Launchpad 2024
The owner of Kayenne Caribbean Ventures won the 2024 pitch competition with automation and management for vacation rentals.
Have an idea for Curaçao?
Want to join an activity, develop an idea or work with CITI? Let’s talk.
