Brazil Doubles Science and Technology Investment to R$49.3 Billion from 2023 to 2026

Brazil has nearly doubled its investment in science and technology between 2023 and March 2026, allocating R$49.3 billion compared to R$26.3 billion spent from 2019 to 2022. This significant increase, announced by Luciana Santos, Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation, marks the most substantial funding effort in the country's history, signaling a strategic policy shift to boost innovation and reduce dependence on foreign technology and medical supplies.

A major portion of this investment supports universities, research institutes, and innovation projects, including advancing strategic initiatives that address Brazil’s technological sovereignty. Notably, the government funded the development of a fully domestic COVID-19 vaccine at the Federal University of Minas Gerais, alongside research on dengue vaccines. This focus extends to the health sector where investments aim to reduce Brazil’s $20 billion trade deficit by producing national medical equipment.

The Ministry’s plan also prioritizes technological industries such as microelectronics and semiconductors, with efforts to revive CEITEC, a state semiconductor company liquidated by the previous administration, now redirected to energy transition technologies in the automotive sector.

Central to these initiatives is the National Fund for Scientific and Technological Development (FNDCT), protected by a ‘‘zero contingenciamento’’ policy ensuring that its resources remain fully dedicated to strategic projects like the New Brazil Industry (NIB) and the Growth Acceleration Program (PAC). Approximately 64% of FNDCT funding supports these programs, fostering innovation in industrial sectors.

The Brazilian Artificial Intelligence Plan (PBIA) is another significant component, with planned investments reaching R$23 billion by 2028. It focuses on infrastructure, AI development, public service improvements, business innovation, training, and regulatory frameworks, leveraging high-performance computing to advance the field.

The government also succeeded in repatriating 2,500 researchers, especially in earth sciences, physics, IT, and health, helping to combat brain drain and strengthen domestic expertise. According to Santos, these efforts have revitalized both academic and technological communities, representing a robust commitment to Brazil’s scientific and innovation future.