Secretariat of Economy awards up to 250,000 pesos to 24 talents at InnovaFest; innovation is key to increasing national wealth

The Mexican Secretariat of Economy has honored 24 innovators with awards totaling up to 250,000 pesos during the Monterrey edition of InnovaFest 2026. The Premio a la Innovación Mexicana recognized projects based on their innovation level, viability, impact, sustainability, and clarity.

This year's event saw 2,911 projects registered. Eight early-stage projects received 150,000 pesos each, while eight advanced-stage projects were awarded 250,000 pesos each. An additional eight outstanding projects will receive prizes in kind and training. The distinguished projects span critical fields such as health, biotechnology, artificial intelligence, energy transition, environmental sustainability, advanced industry and manufacturing, circular economy, and precision agriculture.

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The ultimate goal is for innovation to gain ground and speed.

During the award ceremony, Secretary of Economy Marcelo Ebrard stressed the need for government support and impetus for the nation's innovators. He stated that accelerating innovation in Mexico is the only viable path to increasing national wealth. Ebrard explained that InnovaFest, with the support of strategic private sector allies, aims to fund and promote projects with the potential to drive national development.

Following the Monterrey event, InnovaFest is scheduled to hold editions in Querétaro, Guadalajara, Mérida, and Cuernavaca later this year, with the ultimate goal of "innovation gaining ground and speed." The Monterrey event featured 91 exhibition stands and facilitated networking opportunities between investment funds, investors, and startups. Entrepreneurs presented solutions in key areas, seeking financing, mentorship, and commercial acceleration.

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Innovating is not about having ideas, it is about solving real problems.