WILLEMSTAD – A renewed sense of momentum and shared vision for the future of Curaçao’s capital filled the room during InvestInWillemstad 2025, held on Friday, December 5, as part of the Curaçao International Investment Summit (CIIS) at the Curaçao Marriott Beach Resort.
Board members, entrepreneurs, investors, creative professionals and international partners gathered to demonstrate that Willemstad is not only rich in history — it is actively shaping its future.
The event highlighted the city’s transformation from a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site into an ESG Living City: a place where heritage, entrepreneurship, digital innovation, sports, healthcare and culture reinforce one another within a modern, mixed-use urban environment. Sessions on heritage as an economic driver, wellbeing and sports, smart city innovation and the development of a vibrant day-and-night economy revealed clear pathways to making the historic center lively seven days a week.
A major milestone announced during the event was the creation of the InvestInWillemstad Facilitation Office, to be established in Scharloo under the leadership of CINEX. This new office will serve as the central hub for guiding investors and entrepreneurs through every step of the process — from permits to matchmaking to project acceleration.
Hans van Aalst, appointed last year as the Inner-City Quartermaster, delivered a progress update on his work strengthening the structure, governance and cohesion within the downtown districts. His role is crucial in ensuring that organizations such as SKO in Otrobanda, DMO in Punda, the Pietermaai Association and the emerging Scharloo district no longer operate in isolation, but instead unite as a single, coordinated urban alliance.
Another key announcement came from the TUI Care Foundation, which confirmed that starting in 2026 it will make substantial investments in greening the city center. This initiative is expected to enhance quality of life, safety, visitor experiences and business opportunities. The launch of Live Happy, Live Green underscored a commitment to livability and climate awareness, while the closing Investment Spotlights showcased that bold ideas are already materializing into real opportunities — from a revitalized sports district to creative redevelopment projects and upgraded market areas.
InvestInWillemstad will now become an annual feature of CIIS, ensuring that the city’s long-term vision continues to evolve into tangible outcomes for residents and businesses.
“Willemstad has the potential to become one of the most inspiring cities in the Caribbean. Today we set a new standard: collaborate, invest and act,” the organizers emphasized.