Brazil Launches New Initiatives to Empower Women and Indigenous Entrepreneurs

In 2026, Brazil is intensifying efforts to empower women and indigenous entrepreneurs through targeted financial and training programs. The Instituto Equatorial unveiled the Energia Feminina project, dedicating R$ 910,000 to train 784 women across seven states including Goiás, Alagoas, and Rio Grande do Sul. Training involves free courses in entrepreneurship, finance, marketing, and sustainability. Out of the participants, 364 will formulate business plans and gain access to seed capital plus mentorship. Janaína Ali, the project coordinator, highlighted the goal to transform participants’ realities and promote inclusivity, with priority given to women in CadÚnico and marginalized groups such as Black women, people with disabilities, and trans women. Supported businesses already include Yleus Ateliê Criações and Referência Preta, known for artisanal goods and Black representation fashion, respectively. Concurrently, Boa Vista municipal authorities launched ARI’KUTA CRED to bolster indigenous enterprise culture by investing R$ 150,000 in 50 indigenous businesses. Each business can receive R$ 3,000 in interest-free credit repayable over 12 months, with assessments and financial education provided by AME BV teams who visit communities to tailor support. Luciana Surita, AME BV director, emphasized understanding each entrepreneur’s unique context for responsible aid. Both initiatives seek to expand entrepreneurial opportunities and foster economic inclusion for underrepresented groups in Brazil.