Brazil Boosts Scientific Innovation with Major Investments and Global Recognition of Researchers
Brazil intensifies investment in science and technology while its researchers gain global recognition for innovative breakthroughs.
- • Finep increases investments in Mato Grosso do Sul from R$ 23 million to R$ 372 million between 2019-2026.
- • The 'Finep pelo Brasil' initiative launched 13 funding calls totaling R$ 3.3 billion nationwide.
- • Researchers Mariangela Hungria and Luciano Moreira named among Time's 100 most influential people.
- • Hungria’s natural fertilizers and Moreira’s dengue control method have broad national impact supported by CNPq.
Key details
Brazil is making significant strides in scientific innovation in 2026 through substantial investments and global recognition of its top researchers. Finep (the Brazilian Innovation Agency), in partnership with Sebrae, has dramatically increased its investment in Mato Grosso do Sul from R$ 23 million during 2019-2022 to R$ 372 million projected between 2023 and 2026, as part of the 'Finep pelo Brasil' initiative. This program aims to enhance science, technology, and innovation in the Central-West region by organizing 100 events nationwide and launching 13 funding calls totaling R$ 3.3 billion to support innovation projects across Brazil. During a recent visit to the Universidade Católica Dom Bosco (UCDB) in Campo Grande, Finep president Luiz Antônio Elias underlined the importance of these investments to foster equitable development through science and technology, highlighting seven projects in the region receiving R$ 42.6 million in funding.
In parallel with funding efforts, Brazil’s scientific community achieved remarkable international acclaim. Researchers Mariangela Hungria and Luciano Moreira were named among Time magazine's 100 most influential people worldwide. Hungria developed natural fertilizers using beneficial microorganisms, with her work resulting in over 30 bioinput products deployed on more than 30 million hectares in Brazil. Moreira pioneered a dengue control method using Aedes aegypti mosquitoes infected with Wolbachia, drastically reducing dengue cases in 17 municipalities and soon expanding to at least 15 more cities in collaboration with the Ministry of Health. Both scientists credit their success to support from Brazil’s Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation via CNPq, which has been essential for their careers.
Hungria emphasized, "Investing in research is investing in the future, but also in the present... creating conditions for young scientists to stay in science and turn knowledge into solutions for society." Moreira echoed this, acknowledging CNPq’s critical role from the onset of his scientific journey. Their international awards and national recognition underscore Brazil's commitment to advancing science and technology as pillars of societal growth and innovation.
This article was translated and synthesized from Brazilian sources, providing English-speaking readers with local perspectives.
