Brazilian Small Businesses and Leve Saúde Prepare for Growth in 2026 Amid Market Challenges
Small businesses in Brazil show strong growth outlook and technology adoption for 2026, while Leve Saúde seeks investment amid high valuation expectations.
- • 87% of Brazilian small business entrepreneurs expect higher sales in 2025 year-end compared to 2024.
- • Over 30% of small businesses are integrating technology and automation to improve productivity.
- • Leve Saúde is seeking investment funds and willing to sell up to 20% stakes, valuing the company at 1 billion reais.
- • Challenges in hiring qualified professionals have led to internal training and retention incentives among small businesses.
Key details
As 2025 ends, Brazilian small businesses are optimistic about their prospects for 2026, despite facing inflation and difficulties in recruiting qualified staff. According to a recent Paychex survey, 87% of entrepreneurs expect year-end sales to exceed those of 2024, with 88% reporting revenue growth in the first ten months of 2025 compared to the previous year. To meet increased holiday demand, many small businesses have hired additional staff on temporary contracts while investing in internal training and retention programs to manage labor shortages. Notably, over 30% are adopting technology and automation, including artificial intelligence, to boost productivity and support expansion plans.
In parallel, Leve Saúde, a health services company valued at 1 billion reais, is seeking capital from investment funds to fuel further growth. Ulisses Silva, the company’s founder and president, is open to selling up to 20% of the business but has rejected current offers for not meeting his valuation expectations.
These developments underscore a broader trend of cautious optimism in Brazil's business sector, with growth strategies focused on operational efficiency, technology adoption, and capital investment. Entrepreneurs view expansions in 2026 as a continuation of investments made in 2025, aiming to capitalize on increased demand and improve competitiveness going forward.
This article was synthesized and translated from native language sources to provide English-speaking readers with local perspectives.
