Brazil's Cidade Empreendedora Program Enhances Small Business Access to Public Procurement

The Cidade Empreendedora program is making significant strides in Brazil by facilitating greater access for small businesses to public procurement processes in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul. Seven municipalities—including Antônio João, Tacuru, and Jaraguari—have completed their Annual Procurement Plan (PCA) for 2025, a strategic tool designed to prepare local companies for upcoming bids by outlining anticipated municipal purchases of goods and services. This initiative, operated by Sebrae/MS in partnership with the state government, supports municipalities in streamlining procurement procedures, improving efficiency, and legally prioritizing local small businesses in bidding notices according to supportive legislation.

Claudio Mendonça, director-superintendent of Sebrae/MS, emphasized that refining the bidding process and prioritizing local entrepreneurs enhances competitiveness and seamlessly integrates these businesses into regional development efforts. Since 2018, Cidade Empreendedora has benefited 45 cities by fostering sustainable economic growth and job creation, currently involving 36 municipalities divided into three action fronts based on their needs.

Complementing this, Barra dos Coqueiros municipality earned the Selo Ouro Sebrae de Referência em Atendimento for excellence in municipal services provided to entrepreneurs through the Sala do Empreendedor. This recognition underscores the city's commitment to nurturing a supportive entrepreneurial environment through quality service, training programs, and strategic assistance that drives business formalization and expansion.

Beyond public procurement, Brazilian small businesses are advancing technologically with AI playing a vital role in their financial and operational routines. Platforms like the AI assistant JIM are automating payments, auditing, marketing, and credit analysis, increasingly enhancing productivity and helping micro and small entrepreneurs thrive in the digital economy.

Additionally, the adoption of digital platforms like Telegram as strategic business tools is growing rapidly. With over 25 million self-employed in Brazil, many entrepreneurs are building private digital communities for direct engagement and sustainable recurring revenue—further supported by automation and demand for digital content.

Together, these developments highlight a multifaceted approach to empowering small businesses across Brazil—through better public procurement access, enhanced municipal support, innovative AI adoption, and dynamic digital entrepreneurship platforms.