Northeast Brazil Boosts Innovation with Profix-CB Program and NEON 2026 Event
Northeast Brazil advances innovation with the Profix-CB scientific program and the NEON 2026 entrepreneurship event, fostering research and business connections.
- • Profix-CB program launched in Piauí, Paraíba, and Sergipe to retain PhDs in key scientific fields.
- • Focus areas include biotechnology, artificial intelligence, and renewable energy with significant state funding.
- • NEON 2026, supported by the Alagoas government, is the largest innovation event in Northeast Brazil.
- • Event features workshops, business networking, and notable speakers including Juliette and Giovanna Antonelli.
Key details
Northeast Brazil is witnessing significant strides in innovation and entrepreneurship through two key initiatives: the Profix-CB program and the NEON 2026 event.
The Profix-CB program, recently launched in the states of Piauí, Paraíba, and Sergipe, aims to attract and retain PhDs in strategic scientific fields such as biotechnology, artificial intelligence, and renewable energy. This initiative is part of a concerted effort to decentralize scientific production and bolster local research networks, addressing regional inequalities. João Xavier, president of Fapepi, emphasized that Profix-CB offers a new dynamic for scientific development by enabling highly qualified researchers to focus on state-specific projects. Paraíba’s edition of the program includes a total funding allocation of R$ 54.67 million to support 31 projects, while Sergipe and Piauí are funding up to 24 projects with R$ 20.563 million and R$ 24.16 million respectively. Amílcar Rabelo from Paraíba highlighted the transformative potential of Profix-PB, particularly through projects like Ciquanta-PB, which will host Brazil’s first operational quantum computers.
Complementing these state-driven efforts, the Government of Alagoas is backing NEON 2026, the largest innovation and entrepreneurship gathering in the Northeast, scheduled from June 9-13 at the Maceió Convention Center. Organized by Sebrae, NEON 2026 is designed to foster connections among startups, investors, companies, governments, and academic institutions. The event features a broad program of workshops, mentorship, technical visits, and networking opportunities. Noteworthy speakers include Juliette, winner of Big Brother Brasil 21, actress and entrepreneur Giovanna Antonelli, and poet Bráulio Bessa. The Secretariat of Science, Technology and Innovation (Secti) will also host interactive sessions focused on technology as a tool for social transformation and startup creation. This marks the fourth edition of NEON, following successful events in São Luís, João Pessoa, and Teresina.
Together, Profix-CB and NEON 2026 illustrate Northeast Brazil’s expanding commitment to fostering an innovative ecosystem, encouraging scientific talent retention, and promoting economic growth through technology and entrepreneurship.
This article was translated and synthesized from Brazilian sources, providing English-speaking readers with local perspectives.
