Technology has become a key factor in the development for any country, and although everyone points to Silicon Valley in United States as a reference point, international experts suggest that Mexico could be the next technological protagonist, but with the support of the most visited city in the world, Tijuana.

Recently, journalist Stephen Keppel made a comparison between Latin American countries of who had the greatest potential in this sector. He evaluated several factors like the countries young talent, structures, investments, patent registration process to create a new company and location. The results showed that Brazil and Mexico had the most favorable conditions for development, but Mexico was superior because of its proximity to the United States, and because the main development centers where located in Tijuana and Monterrey.

Tijuana's case is special. With an election season that just ended, the candidates who were elected for Mayor and Governor of the State, Jorge Astiazaran (Mayor) and Kiko Vega (Governor), they are aware of this issue and talked about the support that they would provide for this sector.

VIDEO: Jorge Astiazaran talks about the support towards technological entrepreneurs

VIDEO: Kiko Vega speaking at BC Creativa

Tijuana has a business sector that has supported the technological development in this city. Institutions like Buscacorp, 3D Robotics, the National Chamber of Electronics Telecommunications and Information Technology, the creation of the BIT Center, the Hub Mind and the Startup Weekends are a few examples of the effort that has been made by these institutions to support local talent.

Also, noteworthy is the work of the U.S. Consulate who has organized the visit of students and U.S. professionals, in order to share proposals that will unite cities from both sides of the border that could result in the creation of a mega economic region, where the city of San Diego has also shown an interest in the creation of a binational business incubator.

It is crucial for government administrations to have within their cabinet's officials who specialize in these types of fields, because it is difficult to support something that one does not know or understand. Therefore, proposals like BC Creativa will add pieces to the puzzle that will help build this new technological landscape.

In regards of the level of education that is offered in Baja California, some of the major universities like the Autonomous University of Baja California (UABC) and CETYS University, already have excellent programs in these fields. The key now is to continue to promote the young talent in the region with financial support, infrastructure and more venues.

Will Mexico open this door? It may be, because the new Telecommunications reform also has a word on the subject, where part of this bill eliminates computer and technological monopolies, which could lead to better opportunities for developers in this field.

It's time for Mexico to make an effort and take the necessary steps to get to the next level.

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Brenda.Colon@sandiegored.com

Omar.Martinez@Sandiegored.com