they get you 40k and u have to put in 4k from your own pocket (the 40k are in the form of reimbursements - u spend something, they give u back in the following

they get you 40k and u have to put in 4k from your own pocket (the 40k are in the form of reimbursements - u spend something, they give u back in the following month). U have to spend the 40k during the 6 months (can't spend it all in one month for instance) and of course, you have to spend it in business-related stuff, like salaries, software, marketing, etc (they won't reimburse coffee or if you buy a car!) The contract you sign is very clear: there are no strings attached apart from having to keep someone here for 6 months and presenting reports to get the reimbursements. So it's no "free lunch" - it's just a great example of what governments could (and should) be doing with their money. It fosters innovation, that alone is a huge return of investment for the country.. disclaimer: I'm in StartupChile's first class of 2011 (Novelo team from Brazil) and LOVE, LOVE, LOVE it. I'd be here even if they offered ZERO dollars!