Evolution Free Zone: Where Economic Growth Meets Community Well-Being 

Discover How Evolution Free Zone Drives Economic Growth, Education, and Environmental Sustainability in Costa Rica’s Western Region 

November 2024. In a previous blog, we highlighted the importance of actively connecting with nearby communities to better understand their needs and realities. This outreach, conducted through meetings with Development Associations, educational centers, local governments, and neighbors, forms the foundation for building sustainable, long-term relationships that benefit all parts, our clients and the regions where we operate.  

With this initial step, we developed a sustainability plan, thus allowing us to define and prioritize our community support efforts. 

According to Boss Magazine, some key indicators of a business positively impacting its surroundings include stakeholder involvement, environmental stewardship, ethical practices, and social innovation. Inspired by CODE Development Group’s triple impact strategy, our approach at Evolution Free Zone prioritizes not only economic growth but also social and environmental well-being.  

This integral vision guides how we engage with communities such as Alajuela, San Ramón, Grecia, Atenas, Naranjo, Palmares, Poás, Zarcero, Sarchí, and other areas in the Western Region of Costa Rica. 

Employment and Economic Development 

A core component of our community involvement is quality job creation. In 2023 alone, we generated over 400 construction jobs, and we anticipate that by 2024 this number will surpass 1,000.  

Over the next 15 years, our High-Tech Business Park aims to create over 20,000 high-quality jobs in manufacturing, administration, and engineering fields through the companies operating in the park. This level of employment will profoundly impact local economies, providing steady income and opportunities for the region’s residents. 

Álvaro Carballo, President of CODE Development Group, shared that “By prioritizing the creation of quality jobs, we drive economic growth and ensure that the positive impact of our operations reaches the broader community. This approach aligns with our commitment to fostering a virtuous ecosystem, incorporating local suppliers and further strengthening the local economy.”

Education as a Pillar of Growth 

Education is another cornerstone of our commitment to local areas, as we believe it is a key pillar for growth. We have allocated resources to improve the infrastructure of four schools within our area of influence.  

One notable example is Silvestre Rojas School, in Grecia, where we painted walls and ceilings, enhancing the learning environment for over 430 students. By investing in educational infrastructure, we aim to create better learning environments for children and foster long-term growth in the region. 

Sports and Cultural Initiatives 

Our commitment to local well-being extends beyond education. In sports and cultural activities, we continue to make significant contributions.  

For example, we supported the Recreational MTB Race in Hacienda Trails, Grecia, contributing to infrastructure projects that benefit the Tacares community.  

In terms of cultural support, we contributed to the Zarcero Municipal Band’s participation in the Rose Parade in the United States, a prestigious event that showcases Costa Rican talent on an international stage. 

Environmental Stewardship 

At Evolution Free Zone, we actively implement practices that ensure environmental balance within our operations, while extending these sustainable approaches throughout our area of influence.  

In our commitment to ecological responsibility, we have partnered with the National System of Protected Areas, the Forest Reserve of Grecia, Alajuela, and other local organizations to advance environmental education. Workshops on biodiversity conservation and waste management reached schools in the area, benefiting over 100 students.  

These efforts are part of our broader mission to inspire environmental awareness and accountability across the region. 

Through collaboration with local organizations, we ensure that our initiatives are well-coordinated and produce a meaningful impact. By prioritizing sustainable business practices that benefit our employees, neighboring areas, and natural ecosystems, we strive to create lasting positive change in our operating regions. 

The future of our High-Tech Business Park promises even greater opportunities for collaboration, innovation, and shared prosperity, as we work together to build a better tomorrow for all.