GOVTECH SCALE

It is a program for startups and scaleups with a developed solution that seek to boost their B2G business strategy, validate their value proposition for the Government and connect with the public sector.

Escala GovTech is part of the GovTech Connect program , a regional initiative promoted by IDB Lab , coordinated by the Local Innovation Network and with Gobe Ventures as a technical partner for B2G scaling methodologies.

About the Call

The public sector represents a growing opportunity for technology companies with public value solutions, although entering this market involves different decision-making processes and mechanisms than other markets.  

This call seeks to select startups and scaleups to participate in the first cycle of the program in Argentina, strengthening their capabilities to develop B2G strategies.  

GovTech 2026 Scale

State:
Open
Start date:

03/08/2026

Deadline:

31/08/2026 (Midnight Arg)

Convening entity

CESIS (Center for Studies in Sustainability and Social Innovation, Faculty of Business Sciences) and Getting startedIAE (Entrepreneurship Center, IAE Business School).

Key information about the Call for Proposals

  • Startups and scaleups with a developed or validated technological solution, a committed team, and an interest in the public sector. 
  • With or without prior B2G experience: B2B or B2C organizations looking to expand also apply. 
  • Illustrative areas: artificial intelligence, data, cybersecurity, health, education, mobility, sustainability, citizen participation, digital services, public management. 

Both companies with B2G experience and B2B or technology startups that have not yet worked with the government, but have a solution with clear potential for the public sector, can participate.
Escala GovTech is open to any technology solution with public value.
 

  • August 31th | Application deadline.
  • Review of applications.
  • Confirmation prior to September 14th of the startups selected to participate in the matchmaking event.
  • September 28 | In-person pre-selection event with relevant actors from the ecosystem.
  • October 5 | Final selection of the 8 participating companies.
  • October 19-21 | Face-to-face modules.  
  • October – November | Online mentoring.   
  • Week of November 16 | in-person Demo Day.
  • Specialized training in B2G strategies and the GovTech ecosystem, including content on Smart Cities, sustainability and health, complemented by mentoring.
  • Activities to connect with the GovTech ecosystem. 
  • Access to public sector pilot funding for 2 of the 8 selected companies. Prior pilot work or submission of a mandatory pilot proposal is not required.  
  • Demo Day. In-person event in Buenos Aires to present startups and their solutions to relevant ecosystem players (public institutions, corporations, investors and experts)  
  • Relevance of the public problem.
  • Potential impact of the solution. 
  • Adoption potential and scalability. 

Terms and Conditions

FAQ

Participation in the program is free.
Travel and accommodation expenses for the activities are not included.
 
 

The program requires active participation . Selected companies commit to attending the in-person sessions.

The program does NOT involve a transfer of equity.

Yes, having a headquarters in the country is a requirement for participation.

The participation of key decision-makers from the startup or scale- up is recommended.

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