While millions silently battle unemployment and search for purpose in uncertain times, a quiet revolution is unfolding in the lush green heart of Central America. In Costa Rica—a country better known for beaches and jungles than job creation—medical tech giants like Avna and Cirtec are igniting a wave of opportunity, proving that new beginnings often bloom where few expect. With over $5.5 million invested and hundreds of high-skilled roles on the rise, this tropical haven isn’t just attracting reality shows and spiritual seekers—it’s becoming a lifeline for those craving a second chance at meaningful, stable work.
In a bold move that signals the growing economic magnetism of Costa Rica, Avna Inc., a contract manufacturer of medical devices, has announced a $5.5 million expansion into the country’s Evolution Free Zone. The project includes a state-of-the-art 5,900-square-meter facility, promising a 116% boost in production capacity and 200 new jobs over the next three years. This is a welcome development at a time when global unemployment remains high, and many skilled workers are seeking new paths forward in industries that matter.
Avna, formerly known as Okay Industries, chose Costa Rica for its skilled labor force, stable business environment, and proven track record in medtech manufacturing. CEO Jason Howey emphasized the country’s unique ability to align innovation, quality of life, and community—an ecosystem ripe for sustainable growth. With over 90 multinational medtech companies already established there, Costa Rica now produces 42% of its exports from the medical and pharmaceutical sectors, amounting to $7.6 billion in 2023 alone.
But Avna is not alone. Cirtec Medical is also doubling down on Costa Rica, with a massive expansion aimed at accelerating the production of neuromodulation and interventional devices. The company’s strategy is centered on vertical integration—managing everything from R&D in the U.S. to device assembly in Costa Rica—cutting time-to-market and costs for customers. Cirtec’s move will offer even more jobs, stimulate regional development, and reinforce Costa Rica’s reputation as a medical device manufacturing powerhouse.
Meanwhile, the nation’s allure extends beyond factory floors. On another front, Reunion Costa Rica is expanding its popular Ayahuasca retreats, blending Indigenous wisdom with modern wellness techniques. With the appointment of a new full-time ceremonial leader and a beachfront campus dedicated to healing, Costa Rica is becoming a global center for both economic growth and spiritual rebirth—underscoring its dual appeal for the mind and the soul.
Even Hollywood has taken notice. ABC’s Bachelor in Paradise is relocating to Costa Rica for its tenth season, showcasing the country’s cinematic beauty and bolstering its tourism and hospitality sectors. This media exposure not only supports the local economy but also puts a global spotlight on Costa Rica as a place of possibility—for love, healing, and now, serious career prospects.
Costa Rica’s quiet rise is anything but accidental. Through foreign investment, skilled workforce development, and community-oriented business practices, it’s turning global uncertainty into a regional success story. For the unemployed watching from afar, it’s a reminder that transformation is real—and sometimes, the next chapter begins far from home, under foreign skies full of promise.
Key Highlights Table:
| Company | Investment (USD) | New Jobs | Industry Focus | Location |
| Avna Inc. | $5.5 million | 200 | Medical Devices | Evolution Free Zone, Grecia |
| Cirtec Medical | Not disclosed | 100+ est. | Neuromodulation, R&D | Coyol Free Zone, Alajuela |
| Reunion Costa Rica | N/A | N/A | Wellness / Retreats | Guanacaste, Costa Rica |
| Bachelor in Paradise | N/A | N/A | TV Production / Tourism | Likely Guanacaste/Nicoya |
How many jobs will Avna’s expansion in Costa Rica create?
Avna’s $5.5 million expansion in the Evolution Free Zone will create 200 new jobs in engineering, manufacturing, automation, and quality control over the next three years.
What is the size of Avna’s new facility in Costa Rica?
The new facility spans 5,900 square meters, with 5,200 square meters dedicated to production and the remaining space for administrative operations.
What does Avna manufacture in Costa Rica?
Avna provides medical device manufacturing services, including laser processing, plastic injection molding, overmolding, precision grinding, CNC machining, automation, and assembly technologies.
Why are medtech companies expanding to Costa Rica?
Costa Rica offers a highly skilled workforce, business-friendly environment, and cost-effective operations, making it a preferred hub for medical device OEMs. It hosts over 90 multinational medtech companies and exported $7.6 billion in medical and pharmaceutical products in 2023.
What is the Evolution Free Zone?
It’s a high-tech business park in Grecia, Costa Rica, designed to support life sciences, smart manufacturing, semiconductors, and knowledge-intensive services. It’s near the international airport and Route 1 for efficient logistics.
How is Cirtec Medical involved in Costa Rica?
Cirtec Medical is doubling its operations in Costa Rica, focusing on neuromodulation, interventional, and structural heart device manufacturing. The expansion aims to shorten product timelines and lower costs while creating more high-skill jobs.
What is Reunion Costa Rica, and how is it expanding?
Reunion is a not-for-profit plant medicine center offering Ayahuasca retreats. Starting in August 2025, it’s expanding its retreat calendar under the leadership of Wakana White Owl, a ceremonial guide with 40+ years of experience.
What impact does the filming of Bachelor in Paradise have on Costa Rica?
The reality show’s move to Costa Rica brings tourism revenue, local job opportunities, and global media exposure. It also supports hospitality businesses and strengthens Costa Rica’s image as a safe, beautiful filming location.
Real Tips for the Unemployed Dreaming Bigger:
- Follow the growth: Keep tabs on expanding industries like medtech—jobs in these sectors often require transferable skills like quality control, production, and logistics.
- Think global, act local: Consider remote roles with international companies or opportunities in countries investing in skilled labor, like Costa Rica.
- Learn and pivot: Upskill with online courses in automation, CNC machining, or project management—skills in demand at places like Avna or Cirtec.
- Don’t underestimate the power of wellness: Whether through retreats or community work, sometimes healing your mindset opens doors to new motivation and career clarity.
You’re not stuck—you’re preparing. And the world is a lot bigger (and more open) than you think.
