Brazil Advances Youth Innovation with Amapá Startup and Feira Jovem de Negócios Iguassu Events

Brazil is ramping up efforts to foster youth entrepreneurship and innovation with two key initiatives set for July 2026. The Amapá Startup program, launched by the Amapá government, targets youth aged 16 and older, aiming to combat unemployment and stimulate the creative economy through workshops and innovation marathons in Oiapoque and Porto Grande. This initiative, backed by an investment of R$ 600,000, includes training on Artificial Intelligence application and will accelerate up to 80 innovative business ideas. It culminates in a Pitch Day offering cash prizes of R$ 5,000, R$ 3,000, and R$ 2,000 for top teams, aiming to equip young people with business skills as they finish high school, according to Edivan Andrade, Secretary of Science, Technology and Innovation.

Complementing this program, the Feira Jovem de Negócios Iguassu event on July 9, 2026, will celebrate 20 years of the Trilha Jovem project and 30 years of the Polo Iguassu. Organized by Instituto Polo Internacional Iguassu and Trilha Jovem in partnership with Itaipu Binacional and local stakeholders, the fair provides a platform for young professionals to connect with companies and showcase their skills, particularly in tourism and job market readiness. The event highlights two decades of impact in developing youth talents in Foz do Iguaçu and surrounding regions.

These initiatives demonstrate Brazil's dedication to youth professional development and entrepreneurship, combining strategic training, innovation support, and industry connections to cultivate the next generation of business leaders and innovators.