The Americas Competitiveness Exchange (ACE) is the Premier Economic Development, Innovation, and Entrepreneurial Network of the Americas and is one of the leading High–Level programs of the Organization of American States (OAS). The program is offered by the Organization of American States as the Inter-American Competitiveness Network (RIAC) Technical Secretariat, with the support from the Government of the United States, through the U.S. Department of Commerce [the Economic Development Administration (EDA) and the International Trade Administration (ITA)] and the U.S. Department of State/Permanent Mission of the United States to the OAS. The objectives of the #ACXchange are: - Accelerate partnerships - Expand knowledge - Boost job creation - Nurture business development - Inspire new projects and initiatives - Support economic recovery - Empower communities Twice a year we select up to 50 top global and regional leaders through a highly competitive process. The selected VIP leaders will travel through different cities during a week to visit top innovation hubs, advanced research and technology centers, cutting-edge companies and business development organizations, and leading academic institutions. Who is eligible to be part of the week-long program: - Ministers, Vice Ministers, Ambassadors - Mayors and Secretaries - Chancellors and Vice Chancellors - Directors of Innovation - CEOs and Managers of Leading Companies - Presidents and Vice Presidents of Competitiveness and Innovation Councils - Senior Leaders of Regional Economic Development - Top Entrepreneurs Women and young professionals are encouraged to participate. We strive to achieve geographical, sectorial and gender balance in every group. Eligible applicants must be citizens of OAS Member States and Permanent Observer Countries to the OAS.