Gerardo Funes

With over 20 years of experience in trade, government, and business relations, I’ve built my career on effective communication, collaboration, and relationship-building. From facilitating high-profile international forums to advising on strategic communications and crafting narratives that resonate with diverse stakeholders, my focus has always been on creating meaningful connections to unlock opportunities across Latin America and the Caribbean.

At the IDB’s Productivity, Trade, and Innovation Sector, I leverage my expertise in strategic communications to deliver policy advice, technical assistance, and financial solutions that enhance productivity, trade, and innovation across the region. My ability to articulate complex ideas clearly and compellingly amplifies the impact of the Sector’s initiatives and drives stakeholder engagement.

Since 2015, I have coordinated Outsource2LAC, the region’s premier forum on knowledge-based services. This event explores the transformative impact of digital technologies on the global economy, connecting corporations, start-ups, entrepreneurs, and public-sector leaders to foster innovation and collaboration. Through expertly moderated discussions, strategic matchmaking sessions, and targeted outreach, Outsource2LAC drives growth in sectors like automation, FinTech, AgTech, video games, and e-commerce.

Previously, I served as Vice President of Communications and Director of the Binational Office at the United States-Mexico Chamber of Commerce in Washington, D.C., where I led strategic messaging for binational initiatives and advanced cross-border business relations.