MIAMI - Curaçao stepped confidently onto the global stage at the 2026 edition of eMerge Americas, held April 23 and 24, as the only Caribbean island represented at this year’s conference. Its presence marked more than participation; it reflected momentum. Curaçao is steadily emerging as one of the Caribbean’s most forward looking, technology focused nations, and it is delivering that message with clarity and confidence.
Backed by a dynamic delegation of local companies, the island presented itself as a serious contender for regional leadership in innovation and advanced digital infrastructure. The mission was led by CINEX under the leadership of Miles Mercera, reinforcing a broader national vision aligned with the fourth economic pillar of the National Export Strategy, guided by the Ministry of Economic Development under Minister Roderick Middelhof.
Adding to the delegation’s visibility, national goalkeeper Eloy Room joined as ambassador, drawing significant attention from attendees and elevating Curaçao’s profile among international audiences. The booth carried the message “Small Island, Big Achievement,” highlighting how the smallest nation in the world qualified for the FIFA World Cup.
The mission commenced on April 21 with a networking reception hosted by the Consulate General of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, led by Lisette den Breems, at her residence. She welcomed the Curaçao delegation, engaged in direct discussions, and emphasized her role as a bridge between the islands and Miami, with an open invitation for continued collaboration.
On April 22, an Investors Roundtable was held in collaboration with Banco Sabadell, one of Spain’s largest banks with offices in Miami. This engagement built on an initial connection established in Curaçao with CINEX during the CHICOS Conference in 2025. Mr. Mercera and the delegation met with potential investors, highlighting key opportunities and positioning Curaçao as an attractive destination for investment.
During the conference days, April 23 and 24, Curaçao’s presence drew strong interest. Melissa Medina, CEO of eMerge Americas, and Manny Medina, founder of the conference, visited the Curaçao booth to engage directly with the delegation. The group was also joined by Jérôme Beeldsnijder, along with Mrs. Lisette den Breems, underscoring the importance of international partnerships in supporting Curaçao’s continued growth.
Curaçao arrived at eMerge Americas with a clear and compelling message: the island is not defined by a single strength. It is a nation where innovation, ambition, and cultural pride converge, positioning itself not only as a force in sport, but as a rising leader in technology and infrastructure across the Caribbean.