Brazilian Programs Boost Socio-Environmental Ventures with Funding and Networking Opportunities

Two major initiatives in Brazil are advancing support for entrepreneurs with socio-environmental impact projects. In Goiás, the third edition of the Negócios Inovadores de Impacto Socioambiental (NIIS) program, launched by the Secretaria de Ciência, Tecnologia e Inovação (Secti) and Hub Goiás, offers R$ 170,000 in prizes for innovative projects in the ideation phase targeting socio-environmental challenges in the Cerrado ecosystem. Registration runs from February 3 to March 22, with up to 20 projects selected. The program awards the top five solutions cash prizes ranging from R$ 45,000 for first place to R$ 20,000 for fifth, alongside an online acceleration journey. NIIS prioritizes four key areas: socio-bioeconomics and nature-based solutions, assistive technologies for disabilities and the elderly, circular economy, and income generation in vulnerable territories. José Frederico Lyra Netto, Secretary of Science, Technology, and Innovation of Goiás, emphasized that the program acts as a "transformation laboratory" addressing real regional challenges beyond just competition.

Meanwhile, the 3rd edition of MS Empreende Mais, held on February 2 in Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul, focused on connecting entrepreneurs via a business session. Organized by Sebrae with the State Government, over 50 entrepreneurs participated, generating R$ 2.9 million in business opportunities. The event garnered positive feedback highlighting its role in promoting networking and partnerships. Sebrae's 2025 efforts included 25 similar sessions engaging nearly 2,000 entrepreneurs and generating projected business deals exceeding R$ 373 million. The event also showcased the continued collaboration between Sebrae/MS and the State Government, particularly via the Cidade Empreendedora program, which strives to improve the entrepreneurial ecosystem in the region.

These initiatives demonstrate Brazil's growing investment in socio-environmental entrepreneurship, combining financial incentives, skill acceleration, and business networking to tackle sustainable development challenges in diverse regions.