Brazil Advances Science and Technology Funding with National and State Initiatives
Brazil is enhancing science and technology funding through Finep's national funding program, Espírito Santo’s new state innovation plan, and legislative reforms to boost education and research collaboration.
- • Finep announced R$ 3.3 billion in funding for science and innovation projects during an event at UFPI.
- • Espírito Santo launched its first State Plan for Science, Technology, and Innovation with over R$ 50 million in new funding programs.
- • Senator Izalci Lucas highlighted legislative progress supporting innovation, including patent participation and Fundeb education funding.
- • These initiatives reflect Brazil’s integrated efforts to strengthen the innovation ecosystem at national and state levels.
Key details
On March 23, 2026, the Federal University of Piauí (UFPI) hosted a significant event as part of the Finep pelo Brasil initiative, which aims to promote funding opportunities for science, technology, and innovation across Brazil. During the event, three funding calls were announced, allocating approximately R$ 3.3 billion from the National Fund for Scientific and Technological Development (FNDCT) to support innovative projects developed by companies in partnership with research institutions. The Finep program’s regional analyst, Douglas Costa, noted that Teresina, where UFPI is located, was the final capital city on this national tour expected to reach about 150 cities by the end of April. Vice-Rector Edmilson Moura underscored the crucial role of innovation to address real-world problems, while Secretary André Macedo called attention to the need for accessible funding to accelerate innovation ecosystems.
Additionally, the state of Espírito Santo launched its State Plan for Science, Technology, and Innovation (PCTI-ES), a collaborative strategy developed with input from academia, the public and private sectors, and civil society. Governor Renato Casagrande highlighted that this plan represents Brazil’s first state-level comprehensive science and technology policy, strategically positioning Espírito Santo as a technology producer rather than just a consumer. The plan includes new funding initiatives such as the Nova Economia Capixaba 2026, investing over R$ 40 million in innovation projects, and the Dr. Empreendedor program allocating R$ 10.6 million to support doctoral entrepreneurs.
On the legislative front, Senator Izalci Lucas spoke in the Senate about ongoing efforts to bolster science, technology, and education. He pointed out recent legislative reforms enabling researchers to participate in patenting and collaborate with companies, fostering innovation. Furthermore, he highlighted the approval of the Fundeb financing program which will enhance early childhood and vocational education. However, challenges remain in improving basic education, as many students still struggle with literacy and math proficiency.
Together, these developments reflect Brazil’s coordinated approach at national and state levels to expand funding and policy frameworks to stimulate scientific research, technological innovation, and education, reinforcing the country’s commitment to cultivating a robust innovation ecosystem.
This article was translated and synthesized from Brazilian sources, providing English-speaking readers with local perspectives.
