Innovative Initiatives Boost Diversity and Entrepreneurship in Brazilian Communities
Brazilian projects like Morro do Silício and regional fairs are fostering diversity and growth among entrepreneurs, especially women and marginalized communities.
- • Projeto Morro do Silício empowers Black women entrepreneurs, connecting around 200 participants and reducing informal businesses with 70% having formal registration.
- • The Cocais region hosted the first Feira de Negócios in 25 years, featuring 40 local exhibitors and various activities supported by Sebrae and government partnerships.
- • Access to credit remains a challenge for entrepreneurs in marginalized communities despite growth and digital expansion.
- • Events and projects emphasize innovation beyond technology, focusing on new production and sales methods.
- • Speakers like Daiane dos Santos highlighted the relationship between sports and entrepreneurship during the Feira de Negócios.
Key details
Two significant initiatives in Brazil are driving forward business development and promoting diversity in entrepreneurial activities within local communities. The Projeto Morro do Silício and the 1ª Feira de Negócios in the Região dos Cocais highlight the growing role of marginalized groups and regional entrepreneurs in Brazil's economic landscape.
The Projeto Morro do Silício, which has been active for six years, mainly promotes the leadership of Black women in business and fosters income generation with social impact in peripheral areas. Co-founder Cleuse Soares revealed that the project has connected around 200 entrepreneurs through WhatsApp groups, with more than 60 registered on its online platform. A significant achievement noted is the reduction in informal business operations, with about 70% of women now possessing a CNPJ business registration. However, access to formal credit remains a challenge, especially due to a lack of collateral. The project emphasizes that innovation extends beyond technology to rethinking production processes and digital tool use, aiding businesses in expanding beyond their local communities.
Meanwhile, from October 30 to November 1, the Cocais region hosted the first Feira de Negócios, organized by Sebrae Maranhão. This event, held after a 25-year hiatus, featured 40 exhibitors showcasing local products like artisanal cachaça, handmade cookies, footwear, and local startups. The fair included lectures, workshops, business rounds, and a credit arena, attracting a broad audience interested in entrepreneurship. Local entrepreneur Ana Paula praised the event and Sebrae's ongoing support, which has significantly contributed to her business growth. The event also underscored the importance of networking and partnerships, with speeches from notable figures like former gymnast Daiane dos Santos linking sports and entrepreneurship.
These initiatives underscore a broader commitment to strengthening entrepreneurial ecosystems in Brazilian periferias and regional hubs through targeted support, fostering diversity, reducing informality, and facilitating access to credit and mentorship. Both projects received backing from governmental and local entities, reinforcing their role in economic inclusion and community development.