linktr.ee/startups506Costa Rica's startup ecosystem, in one place
Aspiring founders, pre-founders, founders, mentors, investors and allies building the 506. Apply to the community and join the conversation.
Who can join?
We're honest about who this is for and who it isn't. That's how the community stays useful.
This is for you if…
- You're building, want to build, or help others build in the 506
- Your project or contribution is focused on or tied to Costa Rica
- You come to contribute, not just extract
- You want to connect with people doing the work, not just talking
What the community is NOT
- A marketplace: no spam or people selling you services
- Networking for networking's sake: if you're not contributing to the ecosystem, it's not here
- A help desk: we're not here for free support or consulting, but to build together
Where are you?
It doesn't matter if you just have the spark or you're already making money: there's a place for you. Find where you fit.
- Aspiring
You've got the drive, not the start yet
You want to build but lack an idea, a team, or the first push. You're here to learn, connect, and find someone to build with.
Start with an event - Pre-founder
You're validating or building your first MVP
You're testing a real problem: talking to users, putting a team together, shipping your first version. You want honest feedback and people to build alongside.
Apply to the community - Founder
You already have a startup running
You have a product, users, or traction and want to scale. You're here to share your experience and surround yourself with people building for real.
Join as a founder
The cycle restarts. From founder you return to the starting line: every exit or new project brings you back to aspiring — now with experience.
All three stages are welcome. The only thing we ask is that you come to build.
The ecosystem actors
Everyone contributes differently to the ecosystem. Tap an actor to see how we help you and how you contribute.
The ecosystem
Each group has a purpose. Some are open, others require an application.
Plazatón 506 — once a month, everyone at the same table
The groups keep us connected online; the Plazatón brings us together in person in a highly collaborative space. The ecosystem's third place: building side by side, no hierarchy, for the joy of creating.
Plaza 506
The central plaza. General ecosystem conversation, open to newcomers and members.
Fundadores 506
Active founders only. Unfiltered conversations about building a startup in CR.
Criteria: Founder with an operating startup (MVP+), C-level role, CR focus.
Mujeres 506
A space for women in the ecosystem. Open with identity verification.
Eventos 506
Meetups, demo days and workshops of the ecosystem. Find out and organize.
Actores Externos 506
Investors, accelerators, government, academia and corporates that support the ecosystem.
Criteria: Organization with a track record or an active program supporting CR startups.
Upcoming events
View allWhat members say
“I landed my first pilot customer through a contact in the founders group. Worth gold.”
“The technical level in Builders 506 is real. I solved in an afternoon something stuck for weeks.”
“As an investor, I see early deals here before they reach anywhere else.”
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost?
Nothing. The community is and will stay free.
How long is the review?
We review applications within 24–48 hours.
What if I'm rejected?
We'll reach out with a note. You can apply again later when your circumstances change.
Can I be in several groups?
Yes. Open groups you join directly; closed ones require a separate application.
Do I have to live in Costa Rica?
Not necessarily, but your project or contribution must focus on or relate to the 506.
Who moderates the community?
A team of ecosystem admins. The rules are published and applied evenly.
How do events work?
They're announced in the Eventos 506 group and on this page. Anyone can propose one.
How do I report something inappropriate?
DM any admin. We take reports seriously.
Ready to join?
Apply once and we'll connect you to the right groups based on your role.
Apply to the community