Founded in 1989, BALAS is the first academic association to focus exclusively on business and economics in Latin America and the Caribbean. Scholars from around the world participate in the annual conference known for its solid academic standards and for being congenial, open, supportive and fun. In addition to the conference, BALAS produces special edition publications, doctoral consortia, case studies and awards programs. The objectives of BALAS are to foster education, encourage research, and provide a forum for the exchange of ideas and the discussion of Latin American issues that affect the business environment of both domestic and transnational enterprises. BALAS offers events, materials and networks to develop successive generations of academic and professional leaders focused on Latin America and the Caribbean.