Brazil Boosts Innovative Startups with GeneStart Program and Curitiba Business Round
Brazil supports startup innovation with GeneStart program closing registrations on February 15 and Curitiba hosting a major business networking event on February 10.
- • GeneStart program registrations close February 15, offering free mentoring and training for new innovative businesses.
- • GeneStart aims to reduce startup failure rates by providing technical support, supported by Sedec, Sebrae, and Fapesc.
- • Curitiba’s Business Round on February 10 will connect startups, investors, and entrepreneurs through pitches and networking at Bar do Alemão.
- • Vale do Pinhão initiative backs Curitiba’s event, which has attracted 10,000 participants since 2019.
Key details
Brazil is intensifying efforts to support and accelerate innovative startups through programs and networking events designed to reduce entrepreneurial risks and enhance business opportunities.
The Instituto Gene is nearing the application deadline for the GeneStart initiative, with registrations closing on February 15. This program provides free support to new and innovative businesses, offering mentoring, training, and access to an entrepreneurial ecosystem. Supported by the Secretary of Economic Development (Sedec), Sebrae, and Fapesc, GeneStart aims to transform creative ideas into sustainable ventures, lowering the failure rates for startups. Sedec Secretary Walfredo Balistieri highlighted that GeneStart is a strategic tool to convert Blumenau's creative potential into thriving businesses. Entrepreneurs with or without a registered company (CNPJ) can participate and receive qualified technical assistance to start on a strong footing.
Additionally, Curitiba is hosting the first Business Round event of 2026 on February 10 at Bar do Alemão in Largo da Ordem. This free event targets startups, investors, entrepreneurs, and innovation enthusiasts, providing a platform for pitches, showcasing new products and services, and guided networking. Organized by the Secretaria de Desenvolvimento Econômico e Inovação and Agência Curitiba de Desenvolvimento e Inovação under the Vale do Pinhão initiative, the event has attracted around 10,000 participants through 51 editions since 2019. It aims to foster connections that can drive growth and investment into the local innovation ecosystem.
Together, these initiatives reflect Brazil’s commitment to fostering a robust environment for startups and innovation by combining structured support and dynamic networking opportunities.
For more details on GeneStart, interested parties can reach out via [email protected] or call (47) 3321-7800. Registration for Curitiba’s Business Round is available online.
This article was translated and synthesized from Brazilian sources, providing English-speaking readers with local perspectives.
