Brazil Boosts Innovation with Centelha 3 and Expands Vehicle Recycling Investment
Brazil advances innovation and sustainability with Centelha 3 startup funding and Porto's R$7 million investment in vehicle recycling expansion.
- • Programa Centelha 3 invests R$ 6.5 million to support up to 47 innovative projects in Mato Grosso do Sul, with each project eligible for up to R$ 139.6 thousand.
- • The Centelha 3 workshop in Ponta Porã on April 15 provides guidance on transforming ideas into businesses and proposal submission.
- • Porto invests R$ 7 million to expand Renova Ecopeças, increasing dismantling capacity to 10,000 cars per year and boosting revenue projection to R$ 80 million in 2026.
- • Recycled car parts are significantly cheaper and mostly recoverable, serving both mechanical workshops and end consumers with growing digital sales.
Key details
On April 15, 2026, Ponta Porã will host a crucial workshop for the Programa Centelha 3, designed to support individuals and startups under 12 months in turning innovative ideas into viable businesses. Coordinated nationally by the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MCTI) and partners, this program plans to invest a total of R$ 6.5 million, selecting up to 47 projects. Each initiative can receive up to R$ 139.6 thousand, including R$ 89.6 thousand as an economic subsidy and an additional R$ 50 thousand from the National Council for Scientific and Technological Development (CNPq) for technological support. The workshop, held at the Parque Tecnológico Internacional (PTIn), will cover proposal submission guidance, selection criteria, and offer Q&A sessions and ideation activities.
Meanwhile, Porto is investing R$ 7 million into expanding Renova Ecopeças, a vehicle recycling company aiming to scale its operations substantially. The expansion doubles the operational area to 9,500 m² and raises storage to 40,000 items, increasing the dismantling capacity to 10,000 cars annually. Renova Ecopeças expects to grow its revenue from R$ 70 million in 2025 to R$ 80 million in 2026, targeting a 20% yearly increase. Used car parts, which are 60% to 70% cheaper than new, constitute 85% recoverable stock that comes with a 90-day warranty. The firm serves an equal split of mechanical workshops and consumers, with 40% of sales through digital channels.
These initiatives demonstrate Brazil’s commitment to stimulating technological innovation and sustainable business growth. By supporting startups through the Centelha 3 program and expanding recycling operations, Brazil fosters environmental responsibility alongside entrepreneurial advancement.
This article was translated and synthesized from Brazilian sources, providing English-speaking readers with local perspectives.