Ecuador P2C Matchmaking Accelerator

Date: 7 May 2026 
Time: 09:00 – 12:00 (local time), followed by a networking lunch
Venue: Quito, Ecuador
Event Type: In-person

Leveraging collaboration to accelerate digital inclusion

The Ecuador Partner2Connect Matchmaking Accelerator, a high-level, results-oriented event, was held in Quito and brought together key representatives from government, the private sector, international organizations, and development partners to advance inclusive and meaningful connectivity and accelerate digital transformation. The Matchmaking Accelerator was organized by the International Telecommunication Union in collaboration with the Ecuador Ministry of Telecommunications and Information Society (MINTEL), and the Inter-American Development Bank. The event sought to translate Ecuador’s national digital priorities into concrete partnerships and implementable solutions.

In Ecuador, connectivity goes beyond coverage to include quality, affordability, resilience, and effective use, enabling people and institutions to fully benefit from digital technologies. It supports key sectors such as education, health, and entrepreneurship, while investments in fiber, 4G/5G, and emerging technologies create opportunities for modernization and growth. However, infrastructure alone is not enough. Sustainable progress depends on effective regulation, strong coordination across levels of government, and data-driven planning supported by clear indicators to address the country’s diverse realities.

Highlights from the session

Designed as a highly interactive platform, the Accelerator facilitated dialogue and alignment among participants. The programme featured a presentation of Ecuador’s strategic vision for digital transformation, followed by a dynamic segment highlighting new commitments and high-impact initiatives from Claro, ZTE, Internet Society (ISOC), Coursera, iamtheCODE, ASETEL, and Puntonet. Participants took part in thematic working groups on data and planning for meaningful connectivity, as well as infrastructure deployment and territorial coordination. Through structured discussions and peer exchange, the event helped identify partnership opportunities and address implementation challenges. A dedicated networking session further strengthened collaboration. By convening decision-makers and technical experts in a targeted setting, the Accelerator contributed to mobilizing resources and advancing inclusive and sustainable connectivity across the country.

Explore related resources and highlights from the event, including an official MINTEL article, social media posts from MINTEL Ecuador (Post 1, Post 2), and LinkedIn coverage with reflections from participants.

“For us, this meeting represented not only a successful workshop, but also a firm step toward building concrete solutions. It sends a clear message: when efforts are coordinated among the public sector, private sector, academia, and the international community, it is possible to transform complex challenges into opportunities for development.”
Carlos Eduardo Escobar M. – Deputy Minister of Telecommunications and Postal Affairs, MINTEL Ecuador
“This event reaffirmed the value of creating spaces for dialogue and multi-stakeholder collaboration, where governments, academia, the private sector, and partners can align priorities to advance meaningful connectivity, strengthen interinstitutional coordination, and encourage people to use technology in their daily lives.”
Miguel Aguilar – Director of Telecommunications Policy and Postal Affairs, MINTEL, Ecuador

Agenda

Opening interventions by representatives of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), and the Ministry of Telecommunications and the Information Society of Ecuador (MINTEL).

Presentation of a joint initiative by the ITU and the IDB to identify connectivity gaps, estimate investment needs, and strengthen national broadband planning through geospatial data and advanced analytics.

Overview of the regional initiative aimed at strengthening connectivity and promoting strategic investment in digital infrastructure.

Brief interventions from key stakeholders highlighting ongoing initiatives and new collaboration opportunities that contribute to Ecuador’s digital development.

Light refreshments and space for informal networking.

Participants will divide into thematic groups to identify practical solutions, strategic partnerships, and priority actions to accelerate the implementation of the National Digital Infrastructure Plan, building on the discussions throughout the day.
– Thematic group 1: Data and planning for meaningful connectivity
– Thematic group 2: Infrastructure and connectivity deployment

Presentation of the main results by rapporteurs, highlighting collaboration opportunities and areas requiring additional support.

Final reflections and presentation of next steps, including mechanisms to sustain engagement and follow up on progress.

Informal space to continue conversations, strengthen connections among participants, and identify collaboration opportunities.