The Universidad Internacional Iberoamericana (International Ibero-American University, UNIB) served as the host institution for the “CUD in Your Town – Arecibo Regional Edition” event, an initiative of the United Retailers Center of Puerto Rico (CUD). The event’s objective was to provide guidance, resources, and practical tools to merchants, small- and medium-sized business owners, entrepreneurs, and independent professionals in the region.
The event took place at UNIB’s campus in Arecibo. Held in-person, the session brought together participants interested in strengthening their business operations, expanding their knowledge of key areas of business management, and accessing useful information for the sustainable growth of their projects.
As a collaborating institution and host of the event, UNIB provided a space for networking, training, and dialogue among representatives of the business sector, specialists, support organizations, and members of the entrepreneurial community. This collaboration reflects the University’s commitment to Puerto Rico’s economic development, the promotion of innovation, and the creation of learning opportunities linked to the real needs of the business community.
During the educational session, attendees participated in training workshops and received practical guidance on topics of high relevance to business competitiveness. Among the topics covered were the following:
- Legal issues, health, and insurance
- Access to capital and incentives
- Digital tools for business
- Human resources
- Personal branding and professional positioning
- Preparedness for severe weather events
These topics enabled participants to gain up-to-date information applicable to various business contexts, especially in a scenario where small and medium-sized enterprises require greater adaptability, strategic planning, and access to support networks. Additionally, the event provided a conducive environment for networking, fostering connections among business owners, entrepreneurs, professionals, and organizations committed to strengthening Puerto Rico’s business ecosystem.
The United Retailers Center of Puerto Rico (CUD) is a nonprofit trade organization that provides services, advice, and support to small and medium-sized business owners in the country. Through initiatives such as “CUD en Tu Pueblo,” the organization promotes direct access to resources, benefits, programs, and strategic partnerships aimed at improving the competitiveness and development of the commercial sector.
UNIB’s participation in this event aligns with its academic and social mission, which is focused on promoting educational excellence, innovation, and equal opportunities in access to knowledge. It also reinforces the University’s role as a space open to the community, capable of coordinating efforts with public, private, and trade organizations to address local challenges.
