Carlos Mauricio Trujillo Bernal, a student of the Physical Therapy program at Fundación Universitaria María Cano – Neiva campus, was one of the winners of the “Seed Capital Line for Strengthening the Tourism Sector for a Greater Huila” competition, organized by the Huila Governor’s Office and InfiHuila. His venture, Alojamiento Campestre Tacuara SAS, was selected from among 84 proposals for its innovation potential and contribution to regional development.

Trujillo’s project successfully advanced through several phases of the selection process: registration, eligibility, business model evaluation, training, and finally, a pitch presentation before a panel of experts. As a result, he received a financial incentive of 15 million Colombian pesos (approx. $3,700 USD) to enhance the infrastructure and services of his rural lodging business, aiming to promote a more competitive and sustainable tourism sector in the department.

This achievement also highlights the commitment of Fundación Universitaria María Cano to nurturing entrepreneurial and innovative professionals. Through its Innovation and Entrepreneurship Unit, the institution encourages educational processes that foster real-world solutions and connect academic knowledge with the local economy and social dynamics of the Huila region.

The seed capital was awarded during a public event in Neiva, attended by representatives of the Huila Governor’s Office, InfiHuila, and the local entrepreneurial community. The ceremony emphasized the importance of supporting young innovators whose ideas energize strategic sectors such as tourism.

With this recognition, Carlos Mauricio Trujillo becomes an inspiring example of how higher education and entrepreneurship can work together to transform communities, generate employment, and create new opportunities in high-potential areas like Huila.

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