In 2026, if you’re only collecting data and not doing anything with it, you are already 10 miles behind. Data is the new oil, and it’s all about operationalizing it.
If your team is lacking Data Science, it's only a matter of answering this question: is your team still looking at spreadsheets to understand what happened last month? If your answer is yes, then we should have a conversation.
In this article, we’ll explore the 2026 landscape for data science services and the key players helping LATAM businesses grow.
What is Data Science?
At its core, Data Science is a multidisciplinary field that utilizes scientific methods, processes, algorithms, and systems to extract knowledge and insights from both structured and unstructured data. You can check our data science beginner’s guide for more information.
What is important here is that data science in business is the bridge between "I think" and "I know." It combines statistics, specialized programming, and domain expertise to solve complex problems—like predicting which customers are about to leave (Churn Prediction) or identifying the exact price point that maximizes sales (Dynamic Pricing). As we often discuss in our data science consulting, it is the foundation upon which all reliable AI is built.
Data Science Landscape and Trends in 2026
The LATAM data scene has matured rapidly. Entering 2026, three major shifts are defining how data science companies operate in the region:
- Real-Time Insights: We are looking at instant results for quick adjustments. Companies are now demanding "Edge Analytics"—processing data where it’s created (like on a smartphone or a factory sensor) to get instant insights.
- From Messy to Clarity: Organizations are moving away from messy "Data Swamps" toward a "Data Mesh" approach, where data is treated as a product with clear ownership and quality standards. The more organized and cared for the data is, the better.
- Data Made for All: Thanks to Generative AI, non-technical managers can now "talk" to their data. The best data science company in this era is one that builds these intuitive interfaces so decision-making isn't bottlenecked by the IT department. Everyone should be able to read, understand, and interact the data.
Top 5 Data Science Companies in LATAM in 2026
The truth is, finding the right partner is about matching your scale with their expertise. Although I don’t personally know all Data Science companies in LATAM, I can provide some guidance on finding the right fit. Here are the leaders currently shaping the region:
Globant (Argentina/Global)
Let’s face it, few companies have such a strong footprint in AI like Globant at a global scale. Now, if you’re an enterprise that needs big help with a large amount of data, then their "Data Studio" is for you. For an enterprise-sized budget, they are the gold standard.
Digital Sense (Uruguay)
We like to think of ourselves as the "specialized strike team." We focus on high-impact, high-complexity projects where off-the-shelf tools fail. As a smaller company, our data science services team focuses its attention on precision, and data is an instrument for us. Our duty is to create the best environment for you to utilize that tool most effectively, aligned with your objectives.
If you need senior-level engineering and deep mathematical rigor, we are the company to go to. Our data science work has enabled us to work together with companies like ULTA Beauty and Tonal, dealing with marketing data, business strategies, and budget allocation.
Mu Sigma (Global with LATAM presence)
The particularity of Mu Sigma is its approach to "Decision Science." They bring a very academic approach to business problems, which, as a company rooted in academia, we are totally here for. For organizations that need a massive amount of "data crunching" combined with high-level management consulting, they may be your perfect ally.
NaN Labs (Argentina)
NanLabs focuses on working with data in a fast and real-time way. As we mentioned before, right now is not the time to wait when it comes to data. Why? Because it shows results. They particularly highlight industries like EV charging, connected mobility, and cybersecurity, which puts a greater focus on real-time solutions on the table. If you’re moving in this direction, then they could be the ones for you.
Zallpy (Brazil)
Our next-door neighbour, Brazil, also has incredible data talent. Zallpy has a strategic overview and is strong in the financial industry. For those seeking clear reports and effective management after deployment, Zallpy can be an excellent choice.
What Sets the Best Data Science Companies Apart?
Not all data science companies are created equal. The leaders in 2026 share three specific traits:
- Production-First Mindset: They don't just deliver a report; they deliver a working system. As we pointed out in our guide on In-house vs. Outsourcing, a model that stays on a laptop is a cost, not an asset.
- Domain Expertise: They understand that data science for a bank looks very different from data science for a mining company.
- Ethical Transparency: They provide "Explainable AI." You should know why a model made a decision, not just what the decision was.
Essential Criteria for Selecting a Data Science Consulting Partner
Before signing a contract with any of the data science companies listed above, ask these three questions:
- "How do you handle data quality?" Make sure they have a plan for cleaning your "messy" data. Taking the time to organize your data is essential, and having the skills to handle the job is vital.
- "What is your path to production?" Ask for a timeline of when the insights will be integrated into your actual business tools. We know that it takes time, but a clear roadmap will save you time.
- "Can you explain the ROI?" The best data science company will be able to estimate the impact of their work before they start.
Conclusion
There’s no time for waiting. The gap between data-driven companies and everyone else is widening.
In 2026, selecting a partner from the top data science companies in LATAM translates to a strategic move. Whether you need the massive scale or the targeted services we offer at Digital Sense, the key is to stop "collecting" and start making something off the data you have.
Looking for a reliable data science partner in LATAM? Then you should definitely contact us. Let’s turn your information into your most powerful weapon.
