Brazil Launches Major Science Funding Calls Focused on Energy Transition and Inclusivity in 2026
Brazil's Ministry of Science advances 2026 funding calls bolstering sustainable energy research and inclusive science events nationwide.
- • Prêmio Mercosul accepts submissions until August 31, focusing on decarbonization and energy transition with prizes up to R$60,000.
- • SNCT 2026 call closes July 3, offering over R$8 million for events promoting women in science under the theme 'Ciência delas'.
- • Funding mandates at least 30% of resources go to North, Northeast, and Central-West regions, and 30% of projects from Black or Indigenous proposers.
- • SNCT events, scheduled for October 26-November 1, must be free, with funding tiers for state, intermunicipal, and municipal levels.
Key details
The Brazilian Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MCTI) and the National Council for Scientific and Technological Development (CNPq) have announced significant funding opportunities for scientific research and events in 2026. These initiatives emphasize sustainable development, energy transition, and inclusivity across Brazil.
One key opportunity is the 19th edition of the Prêmio Mercosul de Ciência, Tecnologia e Inovação, open for submissions until August 31. This award focuses on the theme “Decarbonization and Energy Transition for a More Sustainable World,” encouraging researchers to develop innovative solutions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by promoting cleaner energy sources, energy efficiency, and sustainable fuels for transport. The competition offers five categories based on career stage—from high school students to senior researchers—and team integration, with prizes ranging from R$20,000 to R$60,000. Entries must be submitted in Portuguese or Spanish and student participants require a supervising professor.
In parallel, the call for support for events during the 23rd National Science and Technology Week (SNCT) closes on July 3. Under the theme “Ciência delas,” the SNCT seeks to amplify women’s participation in science through activities held nationwide from October 26 to November 1. Over R$8 million will fund approved proposals, with strict inclusivity parameters: at least 30% of funds are reserved for projects in Brazil’s North, Northeast, and Central-West regions, and 30% of projects must be led by Black or Indigenous proposers, as declared in their Lattes Curriculum. Funding lines cover state-level events up to R$200,000, intermunicipal up to R$60,000, and municipal or school-level up to R$20,000. Importantly, all supported events must be free of charge to ensure broad accessibility.
These coordinated efforts reflect Brazil’s commitment to advancing sustainable scientific innovation while fostering diversity and regional equity within the national research ecosystem.
This article was translated and synthesized from Brazilian sources, providing English-speaking readers with local perspectives.
