by Fabio Lupo, Prospecting and Partnerships Manager at IDIS
Representing IDIS, I participated in ImpactMinds: Collective Makers, promoted by Latimpacto, which brought together in Medellín, Colombia, more than 700 people from different countries and organizations committed to strengthening the impact ecosystem in Latin America. The event created a space for exchange and learning, where the social challenges of Latin America were at the forefront.
Brazilian delegation at ImpactMinds 2025
On the very first day, participants were invited to explore the city through visits to cultural institutions, communities, and local organizations. I chose the itinerary that included the Museum of Antioquia, where I had the opportunity to learn about the institution’s behind-the-scenes work, its educational programs, and to visit the Fernando Botero exhibition. The artist’s donations were fundamental to the museum’s recognition and relevance, highlighting the transformative power of cultural philanthropy.
Marcos Manoel, IDIS’s Director of Projects, who also took part in the event, chose to visit Comuna 13 — one of Medellín’s most emblematic neighborhoods, marked by a history of violence, but today a symbol of social transformation, urban art, and community resilience. The visit organized by the event allowed participants to discover local initiatives, graffiti murals telling the community’s story, and projects that foster inclusion and development.
Over the following days, I joined panels and workshops that addressed key topics for advancing private social investment and impact businesses. One highlight was the discussion on unlocking finance for initiatives that generate positive socio-environmental impact. The complexity of the issue was explored from different perspectives — from the role of blended finance and innovative instruments to the regulatory and cultural challenges that still restrict the flow of capital to transformative solutions.
Another recurring theme in the conversations was the importance of social investors trusting the organizations they support, recognizing them as experts in their causes and knowledgeable about the contexts in which they operate.
The event was also marked by a strong connection with Colombian culture. The generosity, warmth, and hospitality of the hosts created a welcoming environment that encouraged dialogue and the building of bridges between different actors in the fight against inequality in Latin America.
The closing session of ImpactMinds featured the participation of Brazilian Indigenous leader Vanda Witoto, who spoke about ancestry, territory, and resilience. It was also announced that the next edition of the event will take place in Manaus, Amazonas, Brazil, in 2026 — a symbolic and strategic choice that places the Amazon biome at the center of discussions on climate resilience and socio-environmental justice.
IDIS’s participation in ImpactMinds reaffirms our commitment to strengthening the impact ecosystem in Latin America and to seeking solutions that promote social justice, equity, and sustainability. We return with renewed ideas, potential partnerships, and the certainty that together we can unlock pathways to a fairer and more inclusive future.
