Sebrae and Instituto Clima e Sociedade Partner to Boost Sustainable Small Businesses Amidst Belo Horizonte's International Tech and Clean Energy Collaborations

During the 31st United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP31) in Antalya, Turkey, Sebrae and the Instituto Clima e Sociedade (iCS) formalized a significant partnership aimed at improving climate financing access for small businesses from 2027 to 2029. This initiative is designed to support small enterprises in Brazil’s transition to a low-carbon economy by addressing the common barriers these businesses face in securing investments for sustainability projects. Sebrae’s Director of Administration and Finance, Margarete Coelho, emphasized the critical role small businesses play in contributing to sustainable economic solutions, calling their involvement essential in tackling current environmental and economic challenges.

The collaboration leverages Sebrae’s strong tradition in supporting entrepreneurs alongside iCS’s expertise in linking organizations, investors, and climate financing mechanisms. According to Lucca Rizzo, iCS’s Institutional Strategy Manager, Brazil holds considerable potential to convert the climate transition into economic growth and job creation. However, the lack of structured climate projects often hinders small and medium enterprises from attracting investment. The partnership will implement two key initiatives: the Green Innovation Journey, offering technical and financial support for project preparation, and support for the Bioeconomy Governance Executive Secretariat to strengthen institutional coordination and expand market access for biodiversity ventures. These efforts align with Sebrae’s larger strategy to promote the bioeconomy, especially in the Amazon region, where products like açaí and cupuaçu present promising economic and sustainable opportunities.

Parallel to these developments, Belo Horizonte is actively seeking international partnerships to enhance economic development, sustainability, and innovation. On November 11, a meeting at Belo Horizonte City Hall engaged Canadian institutions and companies, with participation from Aly-Khan Rajani, Consul General of Canada in Rio de Janeiro. Discussions focused on collaboration potential in clean energy, mining, and technology sectors. Belo Horizonte’s newly established Municipal Secretary of Business, Investments, and International Relations (SMNIR) aims to foster these international ties to attract investments and generate business growth. SMNIR operates through two subsecretaries, one for International Relations fostering foreign government dialogues and technical cooperation, and another dedicated to attracting investments and new business opportunities. This coordinated effort is designed to translate diplomatic engagement into practical advancements for the city’s economic landscape and sustainability goals.

Together, these initiatives underscore Brazil’s commitment to sustainable business development, capitalizing on both domestic partnerships and international collaboration to drive innovation, climate action, and economic diversification.