Festuris 2026 and São Paulo Entrepreneurship Forum Boost Brazil’s Economic Prospects

The 38th edition of Festuris, inaugurated on November 12 in Gramado, Rio Grande do Sul, is projected to generate R$ 600 million in business, up from R$ 552 million in 2025. This growth accompanies a 3.5% increase in participants, totaling about 18,000, with 834 national and international buyers—a 16% rise—and over 8,000 pre-scheduled business meetings, expanding by 30.5% from last year. The event's theme, “Real Relationships that Build the Future,” emphasizes human connections amid technological advancements in tourism.

Simultaneously, a special entrepreneurship forum held at the São Paulo Legislative Assembly highlighted the role of sports as a driver of business and social transformation. The event brought together public authorities, companies, startups, and investors to foster innovation and economic growth in the sports sector. Deputy Rui Alves emphasized integrating public management and private initiatives to position São Paulo as a hub for hosting major events like the upcoming FIFA Women's World Cup. Discussions addressed regulation, regional development, and featured a business fair showcasing startups.

Festuris CEO Marta Rossi advocated for public-private partnerships and environmental responsibility to sustain tourism's economic impact, while co-CEO Eduardo Zorzanello stressed maintaining hospitality alongside technological change. The São Paulo forum also featured former footballer Renato, emphasizing sports’ social benefits and calling for improved infrastructure investment.

These concurrent events underline Brazil's commitment to leveraging tourism and sports entrepreneurship as engines for regional development and economic growth in late 2026.