Piauí's Programa Jovem Empreendedor Advances Youth Entrepreneurship with Credit and Training
Piauí's Programa Jovem Empreendedor mobilizes R$ 50 million to provide youth business loans, training, and mentorship, aiming to support 3,000 young entrepreneurs in 2026.
- • Programa Jovem Empreendedor targets youth aged 18-29 with credit, training, and mentorship.
- • R$ 50 million allocated, with credit lines up to R$ 20,000 at 0.99% monthly interest.
- • Over 2,300 participants recorded, aiming to reach 3,000 by 2026.
- • Training covers business planning, management, and marketing in partnership with Instituto Madrinha.
Key details
The Government of Piauí has launched Programa Jovem Empreendedor to empower young entrepreneurs aged 18 to 29 with access to credit, training, and mentorship. Launched in May 2026, the program has allocated R$ 50 million to support at least 3,000 youth across the state. So far, over 2,300 attendances have been recorded.
The credit line, managed by Badespi alongside Caixa Econômica Federal and Banco do Nordeste, offers loans up to R$ 20,000 per beneficiary at a low interest rate of 0.99% per month, partially subsidized by the state for punctual repayments. Financing is available for both startup ventures and existing small businesses. Beneficiaries must first complete mandatory training and mentorship to ensure sustainable business management.
Training modules, provided in partnership with Instituto Madrinha, cover planning, organization, management, and marketing. Marcelo Jannotti, president of Badespi, highlighted the program's comprehensive support, including credit simulation, detailed business plan development, and structured mentorship. Marcos Cunha, a 21-year-old tourism entrepreneur, praised the program for enabling him to secure R$ 15,000 to develop his business and emphasized the critical role of training.
Governor Rafael Fonteles emphasized that combining credit access with targeted training and mentorship will improve business outcomes and foster lasting entrepreneurial success among Piauí's youth. Interested applicants can access credit services through Badespi's WhatsApp or official website.
This article was translated and synthesized from Brazilian sources, providing English-speaking readers with local perspectives.
