Centelha 3 Program Workshops and Applications Expand Innovation Support Across Brazil

The Centelha 3 program is advancing its support for innovation and entrepreneurship with upcoming workshops and open application periods across Brazil, targeting aspiring entrepreneurs and innovative startups. This national initiative offers significant funding and mentorship opportunities to help transform ideas into viable technology-based businesses.

In the state of Mato Grosso do Sul, workshops for the Centelha 3 program will take place in the municipalities of Naviraí on April 22 and Nova Andradina on April 23, 2026. Organized by the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MCTI) and implemented locally by Fundect, these sessions will introduce the edital, provide detailed guidance on participation criteria, and assist attendees in structuring their proposals. They are open to individuals with innovative ideas and startups up to 12 months old, encouraging local entrepreneurs, researchers, and students to participate. The program in this region will invest a total of R$ 6.5 million, with each selected project eligible to receive up to R$ 139.6 thousand in combined economic subsidies and technology extension grants. Applications are open until May 11, 2026.

Meanwhile, in Santa Catarina, Centelha 3 is accepting submissions until May 4, aiming to spur innovative ventures within the state. Coordinated by the Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa e Inovação do Estado de Santa Catarina (Fapesc), the initiative plans to foster up to 42 new companies by providing financial support and mentoring services. The state’s total funding pool amounts to R$ 4.032 million, with individual projects eligible for up to R$ 146,000, which includes R$ 96,000 in subsidies and up to R$ 50,000 in scholarships. Applicants have no limit on the number of ideas they can propose. Results for the first phase will be announced on July 16.

The Centelha 3 program is part of the National Program for Supporting the Generation of Innovative Enterprises, coordinated federally by MCTI through Finep and collaborating with institutions such as CNPq and the CERTI Foundation. It aims to create a robust innovation ecosystem across Brazilian states by empowering entrepreneurs with resources and expert guidance.

These efforts reflect broader commitments across Brazil to nurture technological startups and encourage innovation-driven economic development, offering substantial funding and structured support to turn inventive ideas into market-ready products and services.