Brazilian Cities Boost Local Entrepreneurs with Events and Millions in Funding
Upcoming entrepreneurial fair in Canoas and ongoing financing initiatives in Paraná highlight Brazil's commitment to supporting local business growth and innovation.
- • Canoas hosts Feira do Empreendedor on October 14 with workshops and networking for local entrepreneurs.
- • Estímulo fund has provided over R$ 5.5 million in credit to small businesses in Paraná, mostly in low-income areas.
- • The fund uses a Blended Finance model offering low-interest, no guarantee loans, totaling over R$ 360 million financially distributed nationally.
- • Efforts have created roughly 56,000 jobs and supported many entrepreneurs accessing credit for the first time.
Key details
On October 14, the Prefeitura de Canoas is set to host the Feira do Empreendedor, an event celebrating Brazil's Day of Entrepreneurship with a focus on local business support. Organized by the Secretaria de Desenvolvimento Econômico e Inovação, the fair, running from 9 AM to 3 PM, will gather local entrepreneurs for workshops and networking to spur innovation and strengthen Canoas’ entrepreneurial ecosystem. Sessions will include employability strategies, financial planning, business analysis, and insights on the MEI system, with contributions from organizations such as Sicoob and Sebrae.
Meanwhile, in Paraná, the Estímulo fund continues to provide impactful financial assistance to small entrepreneurs. Founded in 2020 in response to the pandemic, Estímulo has originated over R$ 5.5 million in credit in Paraná alone, supporting 18 cities and benefiting predominantly low-income areas (94%). The fund’s innovative Blended Finance model, combining donations and investments, allows it to offer some of the country's lowest interest rates without requiring real guarantees. Since inception, Estímulo has distributed over R$ 360 million across Brazil, aiding nearly 6,000 businesses, of which 54% include women in their ownership. Its support has positively impacted about 56,000 jobs, with a notable portion of entrepreneurs accessing credit for the first time.
These initiatives demonstrate Brazilian cities’ proactive roles in nurturing entrepreneurship through practical support, financial access, and community engagement, fostering sustainable local economies.