The DIGEPYME division of the Ministry of Economy, Industry and Commerce (MEIC) is leading the SBDC project in Costa Rica. The initial consultation event "Knowing the SBDC Model and exploring the possibility of its transfer to Costa Rica" that took place in November of 2012 created awareness about the model among key stakeholders representing the public, private and academic sector who considered that the SBDC model could be adapted and adopted to the Costa Rican reality.

As a result of the consultation UTSA, in collaboration with the MEIC and other project partners, conducted the Certificate Training for Future SBDC Counselors and Directors that transferred the SBDC methodology and prepared professionals to manage and operate an economic impact producing SBDC.

The Costa Rican government adapted the model and transformed 6 of their Small Business Attention Centers (CREAPYME) into SBDCs and has 20 additional CREAPYME that provide basic information and refer clients to the pilot centers. Costa Rica has also implemented the Client Activity Tracking System (CATS) to track activities, evaluate performance and measure results.

A second round of Certificate Training was conducted in November 2013-February 2014.