Interview with Juan Manuel Chaves. The new era of collaboration: from dialogue to action.
Reddi Colombia has established itself as a strategic platform to transform knowledge generated in universities and startups into solutions that boost business competitiveness and sustainable development in the Pacific region.
From his role as a facilitator between researchers and entrepreneurs, it became clear how the connection flowed between those institutions that sought to develop projects to solve global problems such as climate change, loss of biodiversity, food insecurity, among others; that is, points of connection that further strengthened this collaborative work.
Under his leadership, Juan Manuel Chaves, an economist with a background in finance and innovation management, has strengthened Reddi’s role as a facilitator connecting researchers, entrepreneurs, and businesses. This work has enabled the emergence of projects aimed at addressing global challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and food security.
“More and more universities and companies understand that social and environmental challenges not only demand solutions, but also open up opportunities to create value and compete globally. Integrating technical, scientific, and business knowledge has become key. At Reddi, we promote programs that make this connection possible and transform collaboration into strategic and sustainable alliances.”
Xpanz by Reddi: from collaborative work to visible impact
With this purpose in mind , Xpanz by Reddi was created , a space designed to inspire, connect, and transform. Its fifth edition will take place on November 21st at the Hotel Dann Carlton in Cali, solidifying its position as the leading platform for showcasing the results of projects developed collaboratively by industry and academia.
For Juan Manuel, this version stands out for presenting consolidated alliances in strategic sectors such as agribusiness, food, health and energy, where Valle del Cauca has demonstrated a clear competitive advantage .
“As a region, we have tangible results that demonstrate our leadership in the bioeconomy. Xpanz is that opportunity to see it to believe it : a stage where universities and companies shine with success stories that inspire and show how collaboration becomes an engine of transformation for the entire ecosystem,” he explained.
More than an event, Xpanz is a meeting point designed to generate conversation and facilitate real connections between the actors in the science, technology and innovation ecosystem.
“It’s time for conversations to evolve and transform into alliances that change realities. Trust isn’t decreed: it’s built with results, and that’s precisely what we’ll demonstrate this year.”
Juan Manuel Chaves will be leading "The Future of Innovation: Connections that Transform," one of the conferences at Xpanz by Reddi. Registration is now open.
- November 21, 2025
- Ritz Room, Dann Carlton Hotel, Santiago de Cali
- 8:30 am – 12:30 pm
- FREE ENTRY
