IDB Group Recognizes Projects in Costa Rica, Colombia, and Bolivia with 2026 Superheroes of Development Award

The projects honored by the IDB Group turned obstacles into results and provided insights for improving lives across the region

WASHINGTON — The Inter-American Development Bank Group (IDB Group) recognized three projects from Costa Rica, Colombia, and Bolivia as “Superheroes of Development,” an award it grants to initiatives that overcome obstacles and drive development, offering lessons for Latin America and the Caribbean.

“Superheroes of Development” showcases clients, partners, and implementing agencies that have found innovative solutions to challenges in implementing projects financed by the IDB, IDB Invest, and IDB Lab.

The winning teams were selected from six finalists across the region for their ability to adjust strategies, learn from experience, and maintain their focus on results, despite adverse conditions. Their experiences offer valuable lessons that can be applied in other projects to make development interventions more effective.

“These projects demonstrate that adaptability is one of the greatest strengths in executing development projects. When faced with unexpected challenges, the teams found new solutions, remained committed to beneficiaries, and generated lessons that can help improve future operations throughout the region,” said Lorena Rodríguez Bu, head of the IDB’s Knowledge and Learning Division.

The winners of the 2026 Superheroes of Development contest are:

Costa Rica: Expansion and Improvement of the Paquera Port Ferry Terminal, Puntarenas Canton / IDB. Partner: Ministry of Public Works and Transportation  – UEP INECO.
Upgrades to the Paquera ferry terminal improved the connection between the Nicoya Peninsula and the rest of the country, but the operator still lacked the capacity to run some key components. To avoid disruptions, the contractor temporarily took on certain functions while the operator developed the capacity to manage them. The project also showed adaptability by financing technical adjustments during implementation through internal budget reallocations, avoiding cost overruns and ensuring uninterrupted service.

Colombia: Bridging Colombia’s Digital Divide by Bringing First-Time 4G Connectivity to Over 1,200 Rural Communities / IDB Invest. Partner: Millicom International (Tigo Colombia, one of Millicom International's brands).

More than 70% of Colombia’s rural population lacked internet access because of limited infrastructure and the challenges of operating in isolated areas. To bridge this gap, Tigo turned to solar energy solutions, partnerships with specialized providers, and digital literacy programs tailored to the communities. By 2025, the project had brought 4G connectivity to 1,405 previously unconnected communities and benefited more than six million people. The experience shows that digital infrastructure has a greater impact when paired with initiatives that promote its effective use.

Bolivia: Pando Verde: Adaptive Management and Innovation for Value Chain Resilience in the Amazon / IDB Lab. Partner: Conservación Amazónica

In the Bolivian Amazon, increased informal açaí exports to Brazil drove up costs and put pressure on local producers and processors. The project responded by facilitating supply agreements, strengthening coordination along the production chain, and promoting organic certification of açaí pulp to access higher-value markets. As a result, production grew from 10.5 metric tons in 2022 to more than 300 metric tons between 2024 and 2026, generating income for hundreds of families and strengthening the capabilities of more than 1,100 producers and harvesters.