#322: Helping Companies Expand into Panama, Latin America, and Beyond with Mario Cortizo, USMA ‘13

Service Academy Business Mastermind

Need financing for your next investment property? Visit: https://www.academyfund.com/

Want to join us in San Antonio, TX on June 11th & 12th? Visit: https://www.10xvets.com/events

____

Mario Cortizo is the Founder and President of Maerco Consulting, helping companies expand into Panama and Latin America through strategic market entry, partnerships, and business development support. A West Point graduate and seasoned entrepreneur, Mario combines disciplined leadership with a deep understanding of regional growth opportunities.

His career highlights include leading business development for companies with over 200 million users, managing $2 billion infrastructure initiatives, and representing Panama in the 2022 Young Leaders of the Americas Entrepreneurship Program.

At Maerco Consulting, Mario specializes in diagnosing challenges, identifying new markets, and building partnerships that drive long-term success. With multicultural experience and fluency in four languages, he is uniquely positioned to help companies navigate the Latin American landscape.

Known for his hands-on leadership and commitment to innovation, Mario is focused on helping businesses expand, thrive, and create meaningful impact across borders.

In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with Mario about:

• West Point Legacy: Mario is the first Panamanian West Point grad since 1987, continuing his father's legacy.

• Founder of MI Consulting: He helps U.S. companies enter the Panama and Latin America markets.

• Strategic Panama Advantage: Panama offers tax incentives, U.S. dollar stability, and top-tier infrastructure to global businesses.

• Clients from Startups to Multinationals: His firm supports companies ranging from early-stage brands to tech giants with 600M+ users.

• Actively Seeking U.S. Partners: He's building the brand and welcomes referrals from businesses interested in expanding to Latin America.

Timestamps:

• 01:39 Journey to West Point

• 03:41 Starting MI Consulting

• 05:52 Why Panama is a Business Hub

• 11:31 Future Goals and Vision

Connect with Mario:

• LinkedIn

• Email: [email protected]

If you found value in today’s episode, don’t keep it to yourself—share it with a colleague or friend who could benefit. And if you’re a Service Academy graduate ready to elevate your business, we’d love for you to join our community and get started today.

Make sure you never miss an episode—subscribe now and help support the show:

• Apple Podcasts

• Spotify

• Leave us a 5-star review!

A special thank you to Mario for joining me this week. Until next time!

-Scott Mackes, USNA ’01