Brazil Advances Scientific Infrastructure with Landmark Investments and Inaugurations in 2025

In 2025, Brazil made significant strides in strengthening its scientific and technological infrastructure with major investments and strategic launches led by the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MCTI) and key state governments. The year's highlights include the launch of the country's first International Quantum Computing Center in Paraíba and an unprecedented R$ 2 billion investment in research and innovation programs.

On October 30, Paraíba inaugurated the International Quantum Computing Center, marking a historic moment in Brazil's science landscape. The center, backed by around R$ 80 million from the Paraíba state and federal governments, aims to establish the first quantum computer in Brazil. Governor João Azevêdo called the project "revolutionary," emphasizing its pioneering role in technology transfer, professional training, and applications across health, industry, agriculture, and digital security. The center will also process data from the Bingo radiotelescope, bolstering Brazil’s presence on the global innovation map.

Complementing this milestone, the MCTI committed approximately R$ 2 billion in funding for 2025, focusing on expanding scientific capacity and social impact nationwide. The Pró-Infra program received the most substantial allocation of R$ 1 billion to enhance research infrastructure in thematic sectors such as sustainable agriculture, health, urban mobility, digital transformation, bioeconomy, and defense. Additionally, R$ 92.8 million supported the Brazilian Artificial Intelligence Plan, which invests in AI applications spanning health, education, and data security, including the development of a Portuguese AI language model, SoberanIA.

Further efforts included a R$ 60 million investment in popularizing science through fairs and educational programs that promote inclusivity and accessibility. Another strategic initiative—the Repatriar e Fixar Talentos program—has a R$ 200 million annual budget designed to attract Brazilian scientists abroad back to the country, with over 2,500 researchers expressing interest to return.

These integrated efforts highlight Brazil’s strategic push toward innovation, technological development, and professional training to meet growing demands in digital technologies and cybersecurity, positioning the country as a leader in Latin America's scientific evolution.