News

BretA 2026: Mission Participates in Retail Day and Visits Buenos Aires Innovation Park

Tue, 19 May 2026 14:41:04 GMT

Espírito Santo delegation strengthens connections with the Argentine innovation ecosystem and expands opportunities for Brazilian retail tech companies.

The Brazilian Retail Techs in Argentina (BretA 2026) mission continues to connect innovation developed in Espírito Santo with the international market. On Wednesday (13) and Thursday (14), the 11 participating retail tech companies attended the 24th Retail Day — the leading B2B retail event in Argentina, held in Buenos Aires — and also visited the Buenos Aires Innovation Park, where a pitch session took place.

The program focused on exchanging experiences, building strategic connections, and creating business opportunities between Brazilian companies and Argentina’s innovation ecosystem.

“During the visit to the Innovation Park, we had a pitch session between Brazilian and Argentine companies, which created very important connections for future partnership projects,” highlighted Dieyniele Andrade, Director of Business and Management Control at the startup Infinite Foundry.

The tech company uses digital twins to simulate store layouts and logistics flows before physical implementation, validating investments and anticipating operational bottlenecks. According to Dieyniele, the agenda at the Innovation Park opened opportunities for collaboration in the areas of chemical formulation and dynamic simulations.

“Participating in the entire BretA mission provided Infinite Foundry with strategic connections and opportunities for investment and collaboration between Brazilian and Argentine startups,” the director stated.

Espírito Santo Gains Recognition in Argentina’s Innovation Ecosystem

Julia Faita, International Cooperation Coordinator at the Buenos Aires Innovation Park, highlighted Espírito Santo’s innovative potential during the visit by the delegation. According to her, the initiative strengthens ties between the Brazilian and Argentine innovation ecosystems and expands opportunities for startups from both countries to connect.

“Many people believe Brazilian innovation is concentrated in São Paulo, which is why it is important to discover the talent and solutions being developed in states such as Espírito Santo,” Faita said. “I was impressed by the solutions presented, which go far beyond traditional retail,” she added.

The coordinator also emphasized the importance of international cooperation in strengthening technological development across South America.

“Connections should not be only local, but also international. The partnership between Brazil and Argentina is cultural, economic, and strategic, and creating these innovation bridges is essential,” she highlighted.

“Brazil is a reference not only because of the size of its market, but also because of its talent and innovation. Hosting this delegation here was extremely important for strengthening opportunities and bringing our ecosystems closer together,” she concluded.

Espírito Santo Tech Company Supported by Fapes Presents Sales Campaign Solution to the Argentine Market

Specialized in incentive campaign management, the Espírito Santo-based startup Monnera is participating in the mission by presenting its platform focused on automating sales goals and reward programs for sales teams. The solution aims to increase employee engagement and boost business performance.

According to Alexandre Rodrigues, COO of Monnera, the mission has helped validate the solution’s potential within the Latin American market.

“We brought our sales campaign solution to Argentina, and it has been very interesting to realize that the market is similar to Brazil’s, especially because of the reward culture within pharmacies,” he stated.

“We have already started conversations with at least five partners to develop the market across Latin America,” added the COO. He also emphasized the importance of Fapes’ support for the company’s participation in the international mission.

“Without the economic grant, the curation process, and the training sessions carried out before the trip, we certainly would not have achieved the same results. I am grateful for the opportunity to participate and expand our possibilities for connections and business outside Brazil,” Alexandre Rodrigues concluded.

What is BretA 2026?

BretA 2026 is part of Brazilian Startups Worldwide (BSW), an internationalization program created by Fapes. The mission is promoted by the Foundation in partnership with Fecomércio Espírito Santo, Bcome.global, Sebrae, the Innovation Diplomacy Program (PDI) of Brazil’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Mobilização Capixaba pela Inovação (MCI).

Press Information:

Fapes Communications Office
Samantha Nepomuceno | Igor Gonçalves
+55 (27) 3636-1867 | +55 (27) 3636-1858
comunicacao@fapes.es.gov.br

Fapes Joins ERC–CONFAP 2026 International Call to Support Mobility of Researchers from Espírito Santo in Europe

Tue, 19 May 2026 14:32:41 GMT

The initiative will support researchers from Espírito Santo in scientific missions linked to excellence projects funded by the Horizon Europe program.

The Espírito Santo Research and Innovation Support Foundation (Fapes) has joined the ERC–CONFAP 2026 international call, an initiative promoted by the National Council of State Research Support Foundations (Confap) in partnership with the European Research Council (ERC). The call aims to support the mobility of PhD researchers based in Brazil to work with research teams in Europe connected to projects funded by the ERC.

The initiative is carried out under the Implementation Agreement signed between the European Commission and Confap, originally established under the Horizon 2020 program and currently in force within Horizon Europe 2021–2027. The proposal seeks to strengthen the internationalization of science, technology, and innovation developed in Brazilian states by promoting the integration of researchers into multidisciplinary excellence projects at the forefront of knowledge.

Through its participation in the call, Fapes will support up to three projects involving researchers from Espírito Santo. The maximum funding per proposal will be US$ 6,000, totaling an investment of up to US$ 18,000 through resources from the Espírito Santo State Science and Technology Fund (Funcitec). The funding may be used to cover airfare, travel insurance, daily allowances, and monthly stipends related to the scientific missions.

Approved scientific missions may be carried out over periods ranging from 6 to 12 months, or through short-term technical visits, provided they are linked to ERC-funded projects open to Brazilian researchers.

Among the main eligibility criteria, applicants must hold at least a PhD degree, be affiliated with a higher education, research, technology, or innovation institution located in Espírito Santo, and reside in the state. Each researcher may submit only one proposal under the call.

Interested applicants must submit their proposals by July 10, 2026, through the Confap platform. After the eligibility analysis, approved researchers will gain access to the list of ERC-funded projects open to receiving Brazilian researchers. The call schedule foresees the start of international mobility activities beginning in October 2026.

Service Information

ERC-Confap 2026 Call (in English): click here to access the English version of the call
Fapes Guidelines: click here to access
Confap Publication: click here to access
Confap Submission Platform: click here to access
Application Deadline: July 10, 2026
Start of Approved Projects: from October 2026 onward

Questions regarding the call may be directed to: internacional.confap@gmail.com
Questions regarding Fapes guidelines may be directed to: global@fapes.es.gov.br

With information from Confap.

Press Information:

Fapes Communications Office
Samantha Nepomuceno | Igor Gonçalves
+55 (27) 3636-1867 | +55 (27) 3636-1858
comunicacao@fapes.es.gov.br

Brazilian Embassy in Argentina Hosts Espírito Santo Delegation from BretA on the Third Day of the International Mission

Tue, 19 May 2026 14:26:23 GMT

The State Government, through Fapes, partners with Brazil’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs through the BSW Program.

The third day of the Brazilian Retail Techs in Argentina (BretA) mission, promoted by the Espírito Santo Research and Innovation Support Foundation (Fapes) in partnership with Fecomércio-ES, was marked by pitch presentations from Espírito Santo-based tech companies at the headquarters of the Brazilian Embassy in Argentina.

The 11 startups participating in the mission — 10 of them from Espírito Santo — presented their retail solutions to Argentine companies with support from the Embassy. The meeting was organized by Bcome Global in partnership with the Innovation Diplomacy Program (PDI) of Brazil’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

“The BretA mission is part of the PDI Program, created in 2017 based on three pillars. The first is to promote Brazil as an innovative nation. The second is to strengthen the integration of Brazil’s innovation ecosystems with those of other countries. And the third is to encourage the internationalization of Brazilian companies. The BretA mission brings together exactly these three objectives,” explained Ernesto Mané Jr., head of the Science, Technology and Innovation Promotion Sector (SECTEC) at the Brazilian Embassy in Argentina.

“We have been together since the very beginning: in the development of the project, the publication of the call for applications, the selection of companies, the training sessions, the support with contacts here in Argentina, the construction of the agenda, and now these pitch presentations. Seeing all of this become reality fills us with pride and joy,” he added.

For Elton Moura, Fapes’ Director of Innovation, the partnership between the Foundation and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs strengthens the internationalization strategy for Brazilian startups.

“Through the BSW [Brazilian Startups Worldwide] and Fapes Global programs, Fapes found in the PDI Program a partner that shares the same goal: taking Brazilian innovation to the world. This partnership with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been essential to the success of our international initiatives. Since the first mission, BiG [Brazilian Indtechs in Germany], in 2023, we have relied on embassy support to open doors and create connections for Brazilian and Espírito Santo-based startups,” Moura highlighted.

Minas Gerais Startup Based in Espírito Santo Presents Innovative Solution for Bars and Restaurants at the Brazilian Embassy in Argentina

Leandro Rodrigues, CEO and CIO of Checkbits — a tech company that ensures standardization and compliance with operational routines in bars and restaurants through digital checklists with photographic evidence and geolocation, eliminating failures that compromise profitability — presented his pitch at the Brazilian Embassy.

“Everything has been extremely important for us because we are not only seeking to validate our solution, but we are also building real connections with potential partners and clients, and that has been incredibly valuable. Here at the Embassy, we also had the opportunity to meet startups from Argentina,” commented Leandro Rodrigues.

According to him, Fapes’ support during the mission has been fundamental.

“We know that startups need funding and support in order to validate their products at any stage, whether in the solution phase or market phase. Without Fapes, we would not have been able to be here experiencing all of this. These are connections that might otherwise take years to establish, and everything is happening within just a few days.”

Secti Delivers Books on Public Administration to the Head of SECTEC at the Brazilian Embassy in Argentina

The Secretariat for Science, Technology, Innovation and Professional Education (Secti) is also part of the Espírito Santo delegation on the BretA mission. Juão Vitor Silva, advisor to Secti, is accompanying the entire agenda and took the opportunity during the visit to the Brazilian Embassy to deliver books to the head of SECTEC that showcase the actions and results of Espírito Santo’s state administration.

“Through publications from the UniversidadES system publishing house — a partnership between Secti and Fapes — we were able to present part of Espírito Santo’s public management experience here at the Brazilian Embassy in Argentina. The mission also strengthens the connection between Brazilian and Argentine companies through the BSW and Fapes Global programs. Beyond expanding these partnerships, it is an opportunity to present Espírito Santo, its fiscal stability, social responsibility, and all the work the State Government has developed in recent years,” the advisor stated.

What is BretA 2026?

Press Information:

Fapes Communications Office
Samantha Nepomuceno | Igor Gonçalves
+55 (27) 3636-1867 | +55 (27) 3636-1858
comunicacao@fapes.es.gov.br

Innovation Mission in Argentina: Fapes’ R&D&I Partnership with Conicet Highlighted During BretA 2026

Tue, 19 May 2026 14:12:33 GMT

The mission runs through May 16 and will take Brazilian and Espírito Santo-based tech companies to Retail Day, the world’s largest retail tech trade show.

Brazilian Retail Techs in Argentina (BretA) is moving at full speed, with 11 Brazilian tech companies — 10 of them from Espírito Santo — visiting key institutions that promote Research, Development, and Innovation (R&D&I), while also participating in business matchmaking sessions with Argentine entrepreneurs. The mission continues through May 16 and is promoted by the Government of the State of Espírito Santo through the Espírito Santo Research and Innovation Support Foundation (Fapes), alongside strategic partners.

On Monday (11), the second day of the mission, the delegation visited Unicen – Universidad Nacional del Centro de la Provincia de Buenos Aires, home to the Scientific and Technological Center of the National Scientific and Technical Research Council (Conicet). The agenda stems from a partnership established between Fapes and Conicet through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), which enabled the launch of an unprecedented research call in Espírito Santo: the Pilar Network – Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR).

“In previous meetings with Fapes, we identified many shared interests and saw a major opportunity to strengthen ties with Brazil, a country with which we already have a historically positive relationship. This partnership strengthens institutional bonds, expands collaboration, and opens pathways for innovative solutions and new business opportunities. We are very happy to be part of this process,” highlighted Alejandro Zunino, director of Conicet Tandil’s Scientific and Technological Center.

Commenting on the synergy between Brazilian companies, universities, and innovation ecosystems in Argentina and Brazil, Alejandro Zunino emphasized the importance of institutional connections in strengthening cooperation between the two countries.

“There is already a very close relationship between Argentina and Brazil, including in professional training and knowledge exchange. When institutions such as Fapes and Conicet connect, it creates more strength and structure for new partnerships, increasing the chances of generating innovation, business opportunities, and solutions with real social impact,” he stated.

Espírito Santo Auto Parts Tech Company Sees Opportunities with Conicet

Kenit, a tech company focused on the auto parts sector that uses data intelligence to optimize purchasing and inventory management — reducing shortages and eliminating excess tied-up capital — is part of the Brazilian delegation on the mission.

José Brittes, co-founder and CEO of the startup, said he was particularly interested in the visit to Conicet Tandil because of the artificial intelligence technologies being developed there and how they are being applied in the market. According to him, the exchange with Argentine researchers was very positive, especially due to similarities with the work the startup already carries out alongside major technology companies.

“From what was presented, they share the same goal of developing internal technologies to support tech companies. I was able to ask questions about how they are creating these solutions and bringing them into practical market applications, which is a major challenge. Technology often remains in the theoretical field, and transforming it into something applicable is complex. It was a very positive exchange,” he commented.

The startup is among the eight selected companies that received financial support from Fapes to participate in the mission. For the entrepreneur, the Foundation’s support goes beyond financial investment.

“Fapes’ support is important not only because of the funding, but also because of the entire experience the mission provides. It is an opportunity for startups to think bigger and move forward in the internationalization process,” he concluded.

Visit to Conicet Tandil Leads to New Partnerships Between Espírito Santo and Argentina

Following the delegation’s visit to Unicen, the Fapes delegation participated in a meeting with representatives from Conicet Tandil. The meeting aimed to formalize a new partnership between Fapes and the Council focused on innovation.

According to Elton Moura, Fapes’ Director of Innovation, the meeting was highly productive and opened up new partnership possibilities between the institutions.

“This conversation created a major opportunity for us to jointly develop mobility projects, both by bringing Argentine researchers to Espírito Santo and sending researchers from Espírito Santo to work here in Argentina. The idea is also to expand this exchange to extension projects, innovation initiatives, and startups,” he highlighted.

Also participating in the meeting were Administrative and Financial Director Lucia Araujo; Financial Planning and Budget Manager Geanderson Campos; and members of the Fapes Global program team, Giulia Brunoro and Isabela Sfalsin.

Fapes Featured Prominently in the Mission Agenda

Still on the second day of the mission, Fapes delivered an institutional presentation to the delegation and representatives of the Tandil Business Chamber. For Elton Moura, the moment was important to showcase the work being carried out in Espírito Santo in the fields of science, technology, and innovation.

“It was an opportunity to present the initiatives of the State Government, through Fapes, and also demonstrate the strength of Espírito Santo’s innovation ecosystem and our partners, such as SECTI, Sebrae, MCI, Fecomércio, Bcome Global, Findes, and several other institutions,” he stated.

What is BretA 2026?

Press Information:

Fapes Communications Office
Samantha Nepomuceno | Igor Gonçalves
+55 (27) 3636-1867 | +55 (27) 3636-1858
comunicacao@fapes.es.gov.br

BretA 2026: Innovation Mission to Argentina Promoted by Fapes Begins This Week

Tue, 19 May 2026 13:58:00 GMT

Brazilian Retail Techs in Argentina aims to foster lasting connections between Brazilian retail tech companies and the innovation ecosystem of the neighboring country.

Eleven Brazilian retail tech companies are in Argentina for an international innovation mission promoted by the Government of the State of Espírito Santo, through the Espírito Santo Research and Innovation Support Foundation (Fapes), in partnership with Fecomércio-ES. BretA 2026 – Brazilian Retail Techs in Argentina – began last Sunday (May 10) and runs through May 16.

Of the 11 Brazilian companies participating, 10 are from Espírito Santo, reinforcing the strength of the state’s innovation ecosystem. Among the Espírito Santo-based tech companies, eight are participating in the mission with financial support from Fapes.

“The expectations for this mission are very positive, especially because it is the first one carried out in Latin America. Bringing Brazil and Argentina closer together has always been one of Fapes’ goals,” highlighted Elton Moura, Fapes’ Director of Innovation.

According to Moura, Espírito Santo had already been strengthening ties with the neighboring country through initiatives that resulted in the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Fapes and Conicet (Argentina’s National Scientific and Technical Research Council). The partnership also led to the first research call under the Pilar Network.

“Now, we are taking another important step by promoting connections between Brazilian startups and the Argentine market, which shares similarities with Brazil but also has its own characteristics and many opportunities,” Elton concluded.

For Lucia Araujo, Fapes’ Administrative and Financial Director, the mission strengthens the Foundation’s internationalization strategy. “Fapes has been expanding its actions, and strengthening ties with Latin America was already a step we wanted to take. We are very optimistic about this mission and believe that startups from Espírito Santo will have the opportunity to showcase the state’s full potential to Argentina and the international market,” she stated.

André Spalenza, coordinator of the Fecomércio-ES Trade Observatory, is part of the Espírito Santo delegation participating in the mission. For him, the initiative represents an important opportunity to strengthen the retail and services sector.

“We have very positive expectations, especially because of the strength of the institutions involved, such as Fapes and Fecomércio-ES. Commerce and services play a highly relevant role in the economy, and a mission like this opens doors for new business opportunities, connections, and internationalization. We believe the participating retail techs will have the opportunity to strengthen relations between Brazil and Argentina and demonstrate the potential of our sector,” he pointed out.

The mission is also carried out in partnership with Bcome Global, a company dedicated to the internationalization of innovative businesses. Claudio Goldbach, the company’s coordinator, spoke about the importance of Fapes in making BretA possible:

“It is fundamental. From the moment Elton Moura realized that internationalization programs could change people’s lives and, consequently, the lives of companies, he joined forces to make it happen. As a result, he demonstrated the value of these initiatives to everyone involved and to the State,” emphasized Goldbach.

Mission Begins in the City of Tandil

On Sunday (10), Monday (11), and Tuesday (12), the Brazilian delegation carried out technical and cultural visits in the city of Tandil, a tourist destination in the province of Buenos Aires, located about 350 kilometers from the federal capital. The city offers attractions related to gastronomy, religion, and ecotourism, and is also home to a Conicet unit.

“Tandil’s main economic sectors are similar to those of Espírito Santo. In addition, Conicet opened its doors to receive the entire delegation and present how research and innovation work hand in hand. For these reasons, Tandil was chosen as the starting point of our mission,” explained Giulia Brunoro, a member of the Fapes Global team.

Espírito Santo Company Brings Sustainable Solutions to Argentina

GreenWay, an Espírito Santo-based impact tech dedicated to developing sustainable solutions through microalgae biotechnology, focusing on decarbonization and the circular economy, is participating in its second international mission promoted by Fapes. Israel Soares, the company’s leader, shared his expectations:

“During the BitS mission to Spain, we had the opportunity to close two very important cooperation agreements for the company, in Portugal and Spain. This allowed us to diversify our portfolio of services and products and also gain confidence that our solution has global scalability,” he said.

“After BitS, we began looking for new missions aligned with our purpose. In BretA, we saw a major opportunity to operate in the Argentine market with solutions focused on decarbonization and reducing climate impacts. We believe in the potential of the country’s agricultural sector, especially regarding technologies for carbon capture and methane emission reduction. Our expectation is to replicate the positive results achieved during BitS,” added Soares.

Startup from Linhares Bets on Smart Hiring Solutions

IAJob, a startup from northern Espírito Santo, is participating for the first time in an international mission promoted by the State Government. Mirella Souza, the company’s founder and CIO, is bringing to Argentina an AI solution that reduces retail hiring time from 23 days to just 24 hours, using technology to recruit operational staff quickly and efficiently.

“I believe all this networking and collaboration between countries makes a huge difference. Bringing technological innovation from Linhares, in the interior of Espírito Santo, to Argentina will make a significant impact on the growth of both IAJob and entrepreneur Mirella. My expectations are very high,” commented the CIO.

Mirella Souza also highlighted the importance of the State Government’s support for participating in the mission: “I would not be here without this support. Fapes’ financial grant made all the difference and made it possible for me to participate in the mission, something I would not have been able to do on my own. It is an honor to have been selected. I am living this experience intensely to make the most of this opportunity.”

What is BretA 2026?

Press Information:

Fapes Communications Office
Samantha Nepomuceno | Igor Gonçalves
+55 (27) 3636-1867 | +55 (27) 3636-1858
comunicacao@fapes.es.gov.br

Fapes Conducts Mission to Germany and Expands Opportunities for International Cooperation in Health, Innovation, and Technology

Tue, 19 May 2026 13:40:55 GMT

The Foundation’s delegation carried out institutional visits through an agenda organized in partnership with the Brazil-Germany Chamber of Commerce and Industry (AHK).

In April, the Espírito Santo Research and Innovation Support Foundation (Fapes) conducted the Fapes-AHK Germany Mission 2026, a strategic initiative aimed at identifying opportunities for international cooperation in the fields of healthcare, innovation, professional education, and technological development. The agenda, developed in partnership with the Brazil-Germany Chamber of Commerce and Industry (AHK), included institutional visits to research centers, university hospitals, innovation agencies, and technical education institutions in the state of Baden-Württemberg, Germany — one of Europe’s leading technology hubs.

Throughout the mission, the Espírito Santo delegation — which included members of Fapes’ Executive Board and representatives from the Secretariat for Science, Technology, Innovation, and Professional Education (Secti) — had access to world-class experiences, with emphasis on solutions in hospital innovation, oncology, neurosurgery, assistive technologies, health techs, and professional training models. Key visits included institutions such as the Fraunhofer Institute for Systems and Innovation Research, the University Medical Center Freiburg, the University of Mannheim, the innovation agency BioPro Baden-Württemberg, the University Hospital Tübingen, and the Robert Bosch Hospital.

During the visits, innovative initiatives with potential application in Espírito Santo were identified, including the use of wastewater analysis for epidemic tracking, integrated healthcare innovation platforms, smart hospital environments equipped with patient-monitoring sensors, as well as advanced robotics and medical diagnostic solutions. The German model of integration between research, healthcare delivery, and technological development — especially in the hospital sector — also stood out.

In the field of innovation, the mission highlighted the role of platforms connecting universities, research centers, and companies, such as Inspire and Cubex, in addition to the strong international network fostered by BioPro. These experiences pave the way for startups and technology-based companies from Espírito Santo to join global innovation networks, particularly within the healthcare sector.

Another key aspect was the delegation’s contact with the German dual education model, which combines technical education with hands-on training in companies and is internationally recognized as a benchmark in professional qualification. The experience may support future adaptations and partnerships aimed at workforce development in Espírito Santo.

“We had the opportunity to learn from highly advanced models and identify concrete paths for cooperation that can generate real impacts on the development of our state, especially in strategic areas such as healthcare and technology,” highlighted Fapes Director-General Rodrigo Varejão.

Among the opportunities identified are potential partnerships in oncology with German hospitals, exchanges in neurosurgery and stroke treatment, collaboration in epidemiological surveillance, and connections between companies from Espírito Santo and international institutions such as the Bosch Group and BioPro. Initiatives aimed at integrating health techs from Espírito Santo into global innovation ecosystems are also under evaluation.

The mission also resulted in the definition of strategic next steps, including the articulation between hospitals in Espírito Santo and German institutions, the development of a portfolio of startups with internationalization potential, and the beginning of discussions on cooperation in technical education.

“The Fapes-AHK Germany Mission 2026 reinforces Fapes’ role as a facilitator of international partnerships and a driver of public policies focused on science, technology, and innovation, expanding Espírito Santo’s opportunities for global integration and strengthening its STI ecosystem,” Varejão added.

Press Information:

Fapes Communications Office
Samantha Nepomuceno | Igor Gonçalves
+55 (27) 3636-1867 | +55 (27) 3636-1858
comunicacao@fapes.es.gov.br

BiG 2026: International mission begins in Germany and strengthens connections between Espírito Santo indtechs and the European market

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 13:43:40 GMT

The delegation will carry out activities in Europe through April 25.

The Brazilian Indtechs in Germany (BiG 2026) officially began this Wednesday (15), an initiative promoted by the Espírito Santo Research and Innovation Support Foundation (Fapes) that has been consolidating itself as a strategic bridge for the international integration of Brazilian indtechs. The mission takes place in Germany and brings together innovative companies in an agenda focused on building connections, generating business opportunities, and advancing the internationalization of technological solutions.

The initiative is carried out in partnership with Bcome.global and includes the participation of four indtechs from Espírito Santo: Actiz, Endelevo, iNeeds, and VixTeam. Each company receives funding of up to R$50,000, granted by Fapes, to support mission expenses and encourage the international expansion of their technologies.

The opening session took place in the German city of Frankfurt, at the headquarters of Banco do Brasil, marking the beginning of the Brazilian delegation’s activities on European soil. The meeting brought together institutional representatives and created a favorable environment for the first connections between the Brazilian innovation ecosystem and the German market.

The first day featured institutional presentations from partner organizations, such as Frankfurt’s Marketing Agency and the Consulate General of Brazil in the city, in addition to pitches from Espírito Santo indtechs and other invited Brazilian organizations. The presentations highlighted the companies’ technological potential and created opportunities for dialogue with key stakeholders from the European ecosystem.

Espírito Santo’s potential showcased

The program also included an institutional segment featuring remarks from Fapes and the Secretariat of Agriculture, Supply, Aquaculture, and Fisheries (Seag), reinforcing Espírito Santo’s commitment to promoting innovation and supporting the international integration of its companies into global markets.

The event also received support from Brazil’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Brazilian Consulate in Frankfurt, within the framework of the Innovation Diplomacy Program—an initiative that strengthens the international presence of Brazilian technological solutions. This institutional backing enhances the mission’s credibility and contributes to building strategic bridges between Brazil and Germany.

Over the coming days, the delegation will continue with an intensive schedule of activities, including technical visits, business matchmaking sessions, and meetings with potential partners.

Mission track record

BiG reaches its 2026 edition supported by significant results achieved in recent years, consolidating itself as one of the country’s leading initiatives for the internationalization of innovative companies. Since its first edition in 2023, the program has steadily expanded its reach and impact within the European industrial and technological ecosystem.

Across its first three editions, BiG has facilitated more than 300 strategic connections and generated over R$9 million in business opportunities. In 2026, the initiative returns with companies seeking to expand their international operations alongside new participants entering the European market, reinforcing the leadership of Brazil—and Espírito Santo—within the global innovation landscape.

What is Fapes Global?

Fapes Global, a program that expands Brazilian Startups Worldwide (BSW), is an initiative led by Fapes aimed at strengthening Espírito Santo’s integration into the international Science, Technology, and Innovation (ST&I) ecosystem. Aligned with the Foundation’s strategic guidelines, the program focuses on expanding the reach of research and innovation from Espírito Santo by connecting with global networks, promoting knowledge exchange, attracting investment, and generating new opportunities for researchers, institutions, and companies.

With a cross-sectoral approach, Fapes Global supports the development of strategic partnerships with funding agencies, universities, research centers, multilateral organizations, and innovation hubs worldwide. In addition, the initiative contributes to the design and execution of international programs and missions, boosting the internationalization of startups and innovation environments and positioning Espírito Santo as increasingly competitive on the global stage.

Internationalization hotsite now live

Espírito Santo is moving closer to becoming a hub for science, technology, and innovation connected to the world. To support this goal, the Espírito Santo Research and Innovation Support Foundation (Fapes) has launched an exclusive hotsite featuring calls for proposals and programs dedicated to the internationalization of research and innovation produced in the state: Global Fapes.

The hotsite is designed for researchers and national and international education and research institutions interested in scientific and technological cooperation; companies seeking innovation and global partnerships; public managers and policymakers monitoring internationalization initiatives; students and scholarship holders looking for exchange and training opportunities abroad, among others.

Learn more about the Global Fapes hotsite:
www.global.fapes.es.gov.br

Press Information:
Fapes Communications Office
Samantha Nepomuceno | Igor Gonçalves
+55 (27) 3636-1867 | +55 (27) 3636-1858
comunicacao@fapes.es.gov.br

Fapes Hosts Italian Delegation and Strengthens International Partnership Through Espírito Santo Microelectronics Project

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 13:07:00 GMT

Meeting is one of the outcomes of the Confap & MAECI 2024 call.

The Espírito Santo Research and Innovation Support Foundation (Fapes) hosted, this Thursday (09), representatives from the Institute for Microelectronics and Microsystems (IMM-CNR), Italy, in a visit that marks progress in international cooperation around a research project from Espírito Santo approved under the Confap & MAECI 2024 call. The initiative was made possible through the Foundation’s participation in the international call, which connects Brazilian researchers with leading Italian institutions.

The delegation included IMM-CNR Research Director Claudia Wiemer and researcher Roberto Mantovan, who met with Fapes Director-General Rodrigo Varejão in a meeting that represents one of the developments of the project “Hybrid Superconductor/Topological Insulator System: A Promising Spin Valve Device (HYSPID)”, coordinated by Professor Edson Passamani Caetano from the Federal University of Espírito Santo (Ufes), who was also present.

“The approval of a project from Espírito Santo enabled this mission of researchers to Espírito Santo, bringing the research conducted here even closer to that carried out at a world-class reference laboratory,” highlighted Rodrigo Varejão.

The project is part of the field of Condensed Matter Physics and Advanced Materials and operates at the frontier of knowledge in microelectronics, focusing on spintronics — a new generation of technologies that uses the electron’s spin, rather than its electric charge, to transmit and process information.

In practice, the partnership between Brazil and Italy brings together complementary expertise. On one side, researchers from Espírito Santo at the Espírito Santo Center for New Materials (NNMES), at Ufes, specialize in generating polarized spin currents from superconducting structures. On the other, the Italian group at IMM-CNR excels in producing high-quality topological insulating materials. The integration of these capabilities will enable the development of innovative hybrid devices.

During their stay in Espírito Santo, the Italian researchers are also participating in the “International Seminars” event promoted by Ufes, expanding scientific exchange and knowledge sharing between the teams.

Technology May Revolutionize the Electronics Industry

Research coordinator Professor Edson Passamani Caetano, who holds a PhD in Physics from the Brazilian Center for Research in Physics (CBPF), explains that the project includes the construction of devices capable of converting spin current into electric current.

“This represents an important advancement from both fundamental and technological perspectives. It is an emerging field in which information transfer is much faster and involves lower energy loss,” explained project coordinator Edson Passamani Caetano.

The technology under development is still in the research phase but shows strong potential to revolutionize the electronics industry. Devices based on spintronics could enable equipment with greater storage capacity, higher processing speed, and lower energy consumption, in addition to applications in strategic areas.

“We are working with cutting-edge technology that does not yet have immediate commercial applications but could profoundly transform electronic devices in the future. This is a global research trend, and we are part of this movement,” added the researcher.

According to Rodrigo Varejão, international cooperation is strategic for positioning Espírito Santo in emerging technological fields. To support the research exchange, Fapes is funding the project with approximately R$300,000 from the Espírito Santo State Fund for Science and Technology (Funcitec).

“We are talking about a central theme for global technological development, such as microelectronics and chips. This type of partnership opens important prospects not only for research but also for the State’s economic development, especially considering future demands from industrial sectors,” he stated.

Press Information:
Fapes Communication Office
Samantha Nepomuceno | Igor Gonçalves
+55 (27) 3636-1867 | +55 (27) 3636-1858
comunicacao@fapes.es.gov.br

Fapes Joins Call for Proposals to Develop Joint Projects Between Scientists from Espírito Santo and the United States

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 16:53:26 GMT

Applications for the CONFAP–Brasillinois 2026 call are now open and will remain available until May 26.

The Espírito Santo Research and Innovation Support Foundation (Fapes) has announced its participation in the CONFAP–Brasillinois 2026 call, aimed at supporting joint research projects between Brazilian scientists and universities in the state of Illinois, United States.

This call is part of the cooperation agreement established between the National Council of State Funding Agencies (Confap) and the University System of Illinois, formalized on November 13, 2025, to strengthen international collaboration in strategic areas of knowledge. Submitted proposals must address one of the following priority areas:

Climate, sustainability, and agriculture;
Public health and medicine;
Democracy and inclusion.

How to Apply

Applications are now open, and proposals must be submitted in English through the Confap and Brasillinois platforms (links available in the Service section of this article) by May 26. Applicants must meet the eligibility criteria for the Regular Research Grant modality, as described in Service Instruction No. 082/2025.

Fapes will support up to two projects involving researchers from Espírito Santo, with a maximum funding amount of US$ 20,000 per project, totaling US$ 40,000, funded by the Espírito Santo State Science and Technology Fund (Funcitec). Each selected project may last up to 24 months.

The selection process will be conducted by Confap in partnership with the University of Illinois System. If projects from Espírito Santo are selected, Fapes will contact the applicants to register the projects and submit the required documents through the Sigfapes platform.

Service Information

Application websites for the CONFAP–Brasillinois 2026 Call:
Confap platform and Brasillinois program platform

Fapes Guidelines: Click here

Submission deadline: May 26, 2026

Questions about the call:
internacional.confap@gmail.com

Questions about Fapes guidelines:
global4@fapes.es.gov.br
parcerias@fapes.es.gov.br

Press Information

Fapes Communications Office
Samantha Nepomuceno | Igor Gonçalves
(27) 3636-1867 | (27) 3636-1858
comunicacao@fapes.es.gov.br

Fapes Joins Call to Support Joint Projects Between Scientists from Espírito Santo and the United States

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 12:17:14 GMT

Applications for the CONFAP–Brasillinois 2026 Call are now open and will run through May 26.

The Espírito Santo Research and Innovation Support Foundation (Fapes) has announced its participation in the CONFAP–Brasillinois 2026 Call, aimed at supporting joint research projects between Brazilian scientists and universities in the state of Illinois, United States.

The call is part of the cooperation established between the National Council of State Funding Agencies (Confap) and the University of Illinois System, formalized on November 13, 2025, to strengthen international collaboration in strategic areas of knowledge. Submitted proposals must address the following priority areas:

Climate, sustainability, and agriculture
Public health and medicine
Democracy and inclusion

How to apply

Applications are now open, and proposals must be submitted in English through the Confap and Brasillinois platforms (links available in the Service section below) by May 26. Applicants must meet the eligibility criteria of the Regular Research Grant modality, as described in Service Instruction No. 082/2025.

Fapes will support up to two projects involving researchers from Espírito Santo, with a maximum funding amount of US$20,000 per project, totaling US$40,000, funded through the Espírito Santo State Science and Technology Fund (Funcitec). Each selected project will have a maximum duration of 24 months.

The selection process will be conducted by Confap in collaboration with the University of Illinois System. If projects from Espírito Santo are among those selected, Fapes will contact the applicants to register the projects and upload the required documents to the SigFapes platform.

Service

Application websites for the CONFAP–Brasillinois 2026 Call:
Confap platform and Brasillinois program platform

Fapes guidelines: click here

Submission deadline: May 26, 2026

Inquiries about the call:
internacional.confap@gmail.com

Inquiries about Fapes guidelines:
global4@fapes.es.gov.br / parcerias@fapes.es.gov.br

Press Information

Fapes Communications Office
Samantha Nepomuceno | Igor Gonçalves
+55 (27) 3636-1867 | +55 (27) 3636-1858
comunicacao@fapes.es.gov.br

BitS: Fapes Promotes National Mission for Brazilian and Espírito Santo Impact Techs at Smart City Expo Curitiba 2026

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 16:12:00 GMT

BitS: Fapes Promotes National Mission for Brazilian and Espírito Santo Impact Techs at Smart City Expo Curitiba 2026

Curitiba, in the state of Paraná, was selected based on a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between Fapes and Fundação Araucária.

Between March 24 and 27, three companies from Espírito Santo participated in an innovation mission promoted by the Espírito Santo Research and Innovation Support Foundation (Fapes). This was the national edition of Brazilian Impact Techs in Spain (BitS), an international mission that took place in the second half of 2025 in Spain and was supported by Fapes through the Brazilian Startups Worldwide (BSW) Program.

The national mission is part of the BitS call launched by FindesLab in partnership with Fapes, Mobilização Capixaba pela Inovação (MCI), and BCome Global in 2025, which selected Brazilian and Espírito Santo-based impact techs for the mission to Spain. The initiative aimed to accelerate the development of startups that had already undergone internationalization, expanding their connections in regions across Brazil identified by Fapes as strategic.

The delegation traveled to Curitiba (Paraná), where it participated in an intensive program during Smart City Expo Curitiba 2026, considered the largest smart cities event in the Americas.

During the program, the companies took part in immersion activities at Pinhão Hub and Smart21 Announcements, the official kickoff of the mission with the Curitiba Agency for Development and Innovation (Ag.Cwb), and technical visits to the Curitiba Institute for Urban Research and Planning (IPPUC), Digital Wall, Urban Farm, and Hypervision.

The agenda also included a full day dedicated to business matchmaking, pitch sessions, and networking activities at the Fundação Araucária booth during the event. On the final day, the delegation engaged in industrial networking and conducted a technical visit to the Industry Technology Park of the Federation of Industries of the State of Paraná (FIEP).

One of the Espírito Santo companies participating in the mission was GreenWay, an impact tech dedicated to developing sustainable solutions through microalgae biotechnology, focusing on decarbonization and circular economy strategies. According to Mariana Cricco, Commercial Director of the company, “the national mission opened valuable opportunities for strategic decision-making and demonstrated, in practice, how Fapes’ support contributes to the recognition and acceleration of startups from Espírito Santo.”

“Through our pitch, we were able to present our business model, connect with relevant players, approach potential partners, and participate in rounds that have already turned into real business opportunities. Taking part in the mission opened important paths for GreenWay and reinforced how essential it is to be in an environment with qualified networking to drive growth,” added Mariana Cricco.

Fapes–Fundação Araucária Partnership

Fapes signed the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Paraná State Research Foundation after hosting a workshop in Vitória, at the Foundation’s headquarters, with the participation of representatives from Fundação Araucária’s internationalization team.

“Internationalization has been one of the priorities of the current Fapes administration due to its role in strengthening research in Espírito Santo and supporting innovative ventures in the state,” said Rodrigo Varejão, Director-General of Fapes.

“In this context, we sought a partnership with Fundação Araucária, the research foundation of Paraná, which is recognized as a reference in this field. Together, we established an agreement of intent to exchange experiences and best practices, with the goal of developing joint internationalization initiatives in both research and innovation,” explained Varejão.

Through this MoU, Fapes coordinated the participation of Brazilian and Espírito Santo-based impact techs in the national BitS mission during Smart City Expo Curitiba 2026.

What is BSW?

The Brazilian Startups Worldwide (BSW) Program, created by Fapes, supports startups in achieving international success across four verticals:

Industry, through industrial tech companies (indtechs)
Commerce and Retail, through retail tech companies
Agribusiness, through agrifood tech companies
Impact Businesses, through impact tech companies

Each mission is carried out in a different country with an active innovation and technology ecosystem related to the selected vertical.

“Our idea is that Italy, for example, will be the country where we take agrifood tech companies. We are studying the next destinations based on the vertical of each mission. The model will always include participation in a major sector event, training sessions, networking, mentoring, connections with the local market, and cultural immersion,” explained Elton Moura, Fapes Director of Innovation.

Moura also emphasized that all missions are supported by Brazilian embassies:

“It is important to highlight that BSW is directly connected to the Innovation Diplomacy Program (PDI) of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which aims to promote Brazil’s image as an innovative nation,” he added.

Press Information:
Fapes Communications Office
Samantha Nepomuceno | Igor Gonçalves
+55 (27) 3636-1867 | +55 (27) 3636-1858
comunicacao@fapes.es.gov.br

BiG 2026: Espírito Santo Companies Selected for Internationalization Mission to Germany with Support from Fapes

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 16:10:00 GMT

Industrial tech companies from Espírito Santo receive subsidies of up to R$50,000 to connect with the European innovation market; the Foundation’s leadership will also carry out an institutional agenda.

Another edition of Brazilian Indtechs in Germany (BiG), an initiative promoted by the Espírito Santo Research and Innovation Support Foundation (Fapes) that has been consolidating itself as a strategic bridge for the internationalization of Brazilian industrial tech companies, is approaching. The international mission, organized in partnership with Bcome.global, will take four companies from Espírito Santo to participate in the 2026 edition, scheduled to take place from April 15 to 25 in Germany.

In total, ten Brazilian companies will join the BiG 2026 delegation, four of which are from Espírito Santo and have been selected to receive direct support from Fapes: Actiz, Endelevo, iNeeds, and VixTeam. The companies selected by the Foundation will receive subsidies of up to R$50,000 per company to support mission-related expenses and foster the internationalization of innovative solutions developed in the state. The funding comes from the Espírito Santo Science and Technology Fund (Funcitec).

The first international mission of 2026 is part of the FAPES Global program, which selected Germany as the destination due to the strong connections established with German institutions during the 2023 and 2025 editions. According to Fapes Director-General Rodrigo Varejão, in addition to supporting the participation of Espírito Santo-based technology companies, this year’s BiG also aims to strengthen the Foundation’s internationalization agenda in Science, Technology, and Innovation (ST&I).

“To achieve this, we developed an unprecedented partnership with the Brazil–Germany Chamber of Commerce (AHK), which was responsible for jointly building an institutional agenda with us involving universities, technical education schools, applied research centers, innovation hubs, and technology-based companies located in the state of Baden-Württemberg,” explained Varejão.

During the mission, the delegation will take part in an intensive schedule that includes technical visits, institutional meetings, and networking activities with key players in the European industrial and technological sectors. A major highlight will be participation in Hannover Messe 2026, the world’s largest industrial technology trade fair, held from April 20 to 24.

For Fapes Director-General Rodrigo Varejão, more than just an international mission, BiG has established itself as an acceleration platform for innovative Brazilian companies, helping expand their global competitiveness and positioning Espírito Santo as an emerging hub of innovation on the international stage.

“By connecting Espírito Santo to one of the most advanced ecosystems in the world, Fapes contributes to fostering qualified partnerships that support the development of ST&I in Espírito Santo and create new business and innovation opportunities for companies in the state,” he emphasized.

Mission Track Record

BiG reaches its 2026 edition supported by strong results achieved over recent years, consolidating itself as one of the leading initiatives for the internationalization of innovative companies in Brazil. Since its first edition in 2023, the program has steadily expanded its reach and impact within the European industrial and technological ecosystem.

Across its first three editions, BiG has facilitated more than 300 strategic connections and generated over R$9 million in business deals. In 2026, the initiative returns with companies seeking to expand their international presence and new participants entering the European market for the first time, reinforcing the leadership of Brazil—and Espírito Santo—in the global innovation landscape.

What is Fapes Global?

Fapes Global, a program that expands the Brazilian Startups Worldwide (BSW) initiative, is designed to strengthen Espírito Santo’s integration into the international Science, Technology, and Innovation (ST&I) ecosystem. Aligned with the Foundation’s strategic guidelines, the program focuses on expanding the reach of research and innovation from Espírito Santo by connecting it to global networks, promoting knowledge exchange, attracting investments, and generating new opportunities for researchers, institutions, and companies.

With a cross-cutting approach, Fapes Global supports the development of strategic partnerships with funding agencies, universities, research centers, multilateral organizations, and innovation hubs around the world. In addition, the initiative contributes to the design and execution of international programs and missions, accelerating the internationalization of startups and innovation environments while positioning Espírito Santo as an increasingly competitive player in the global arena.

Press Information:
Fapes Communications Office
Samantha Nepomuceno | Igor Gonçalves
+55 (27) 3636-1867 | +55 (27) 3636-1858
comunicacao@fapes.es.gov.br

European Research Council (ERC) Selects Project from Espírito Santo in International Call

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 16:07:49 GMT

Fapes joined the European call and will support a project from Espírito Santo with €6,000.

Research from Espírito Santo reaches Europe. The final results of the ERC 2025 Call, which supports Brazilian PhD researchers in projects funded by the European Research Council, have been announced. Among the 19 approved projects, one is from Espírito Santo and will receive €6,000 from the State Government, through the Espírito Santo Research and Innovation Support Foundation (Fapes), to be carried out at the University of Cantabria, in Spain.

The project titled “Nanoparticles in Situ Surface Growth for Direct Fabrication of Functional Patterned Nanomaterials (NANOGROWDIR ECT)” will be coordinated in Brazil by Jairo Pinto de Oliveira, a professor at the Federal University of Espírito Santo (Ufes) in the field of Nano and Biotechnology. The research is part of the ERC panel on Synthetic Chemistry and Materials.

“Our project aims to develop a new generation of optical biosensors that are more sensitive and portable, with potential applications in food safety and public health,” explained the Ufes professor.

“The support from Fapes is essential because it enables a strategic international collaboration with a leading research group in Europe, allowing not only access to advanced infrastructure but also the generation of high-level knowledge. This type of funding is crucial to strengthening research in Espírito Santo, expanding Ufes’s international presence, and generating solutions with real societal impact,” the researcher added.

The selection process was supported by Brazilian state research foundations (FAPs), through participation in the international call. In Espírito Santo, Fapes allocated €18,000 to fund up to three projects from the state. The funding comes from the Espírito Santo Science and Technology Fund (Funcitec).

“It is very rewarding to see yet another project from Espírito Santo approved in an international call. Supporting cooperation between countries and strengthening research networks is one of Fapes’ priorities. This result demonstrates the strength of scientific production in Espírito Santo and our capacity to operate and generate knowledge at the international level,” said Fapes Director-General Rodrigo Varejão.

What is the ERC Call?

The call is conducted under the Implementing Arrangement (IA) signed between the European Commission and the National Council of State Research Funding Agencies (Confap) in October 2016, within the framework of the Horizon 2020 program, and currently in force under the Horizon Europe (2021–2027) program.

Press Information:
Fapes Communications Office
Samantha Nepomuceno | Igor Gonçalves
+55 (27) 3636-1867 | +55 (27) 3636-1858
comunicacao@fapes.es.gov.br

Former Fapes Fellow Has Thesis Recognized as the “Best in the World” at International Social Work Conference

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 16:06:49 GMT

Award-winning study will also be published as a book soon.

Researcher Aline Elisa Maretto Lang, a graduate of the Graduate Program in Social Policy (PPGPS) at the Federal University of Espírito Santo (Ufes) and a former fellow of the Espírito Santo Research and Innovation Support Foundation (Fapes) through the Procap call, had her doctoral thesis titled “The Silence of Stones Has No Height: Early Childhood in UNICEF Discourse” evaluated as the best in the world by the Research Committee of the International Association of Schools of Social Work, one of the leading academic organizations in the field.

With this recognition, Aline will receive the PhD-based Abstract Award during the organization’s World Congress, which will take place in Kenya in June 2026. The award brings international recognition to research developed in Espírito Santo with the support of state public funding. The thesis critically analyzes how early childhood came to occupy a central place in international agendas and how the discourse of the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) differentiates public policy guidelines according to countries’ levels of economic development.

The research showed that, particularly from the 1990s onward, childhood began to be presented in international documents as a “window of opportunity” to break cycles of poverty and promote economic development. However, the study highlights that this discourse takes on different meanings: while in countries considered developed the perspective of rights prevails, in nations classified as developing there is a stronger emphasis on poverty reduction and the preparation of future labor forces.

“This award represents not only an individual achievement, but also recognition of the relevance of research produced in Brazil, especially studies that critically analyze social policies and the discourses that guide the protection of early childhood,” Aline stated.

According to the researcher, understanding these differences is essential for the development of more just and context-sensitive public policies. “When childhood is treated primarily as an investment in the future, there is a risk that policies will be guided mainly by economic efficiency criteria, leaving the guarantee of rights and broad social protection in the background. We cannot apply international guidelines automatically without considering social, economic, and regional realities,” she emphasized.

The award expands the international visibility of scientific production from Espírito Santo and opens opportunities for dialogue with researchers from different countries. For Aline, participating in the World Congress will be an opportunity to present the research results, strengthen academic networks, and bring the name of Espírito Santo into the global debate on social policies and childhood.

Public Funding as the Foundation of the Achievement

The researcher highlighted that the scholarship granted by Fapes was decisive for completing her doctoral studies and, consequently, for achieving international recognition.

“The scholarship was fundamental in allowing me to dedicate myself fully to the research. As a woman, a mother of two young children, and a researcher, this support ensured the minimum conditions necessary to carry out the study with quality. It was a decisive factor in enabling the thesis to reach this level of recognition,” she said.

She also emphasized the importance of public funding for fields such as Social Work, where scientific production is predominantly carried out by women.

“Public funding creates real conditions for permanence and stability so that researchers can develop, complete, and disseminate their studies. It democratizes knowledge production and ensures that critical analyses of inequality, poverty, and social rights are not limited to those who have their own financial resources,” Aline Elisa Maretto Lang added.

Research to Be Published as a Book

The impact of the work is also reflected in the publication of the thesis in book format. According to Aline Elisa Maretto Lang, the work will be published by Navegando Publishing House in both digital (open-access) and printed versions, further expanding the reach of the reflections developed during her doctoral research.

“During the thesis defense, when the committee began commenting on the work, I had my first great and gratifying surprise when they said that my thesis had the quality required to be published as a book. I received the news with great joy, but also with surprise, because I did not realize the magnitude of what I had accomplished,” she explained.

“The initial forecast is that the book will be officially launched in Espírito Santo in August, during the National and International Meeting on Social Policy (ENPS/EIPS), organized by the graduate program to which I belong,” the researcher added.

Second Consecutive Recognition

In 2024, during a conference held in Panama, the Graduate Program in Social Policy (PPGPS) at Ufes also topped the award rankings with the abstract titled “Reproductive Rights and Female Sterilization in Brazil,” developed by researcher Leila Marchezi Tavares Menandro.

The common link between the two consecutive awards is coordinator Maria Lúcia Teixeira Garcia, who highlighted the collective work carried out by the PPGPS and the support provided by Fapes.

“It is the result of collective work by faculty members, students, administrative staff, and alumni to offer postgraduate education of excellence, with an international perspective while remaining committed to local issues. International awards confirm that we are on the right path, but this recognition also brings new challenges,” the coordinator stated.

“The support provided by Fapes is essential to the excellence achieved by the PPGPS, as illustrated in Aline’s case. The Fapes scholarship ensured the completion of her studies. In addition, through other calls, Fapes created opportunities for internationalization activities. Therefore, the award received by Aline belongs to the PPGPS and also to Fapes,” Maria Lúcia Teixeira Garcia emphasized.

For Fapes Technical-Scientific Director Celso Saibel, the international recognition of former fellows reinforces the Foundation’s strategic role.

“We work to strengthen graduate education, train highly qualified human resources, and promote the internationalization of science produced in Espírito Santo,” he concluded.

Press Information:
Fapes Communications Office
Samantha Nepomuceno | Igor Gonçalves
+55 (27) 3636-1867 | +55 (27) 3636-1858
comunicacao@fapes.es.gov.br

Final Results BretA2026: Espírito Santo Companies Dominate Selection for International Retail Innovation Mission to Argentina

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 16:00:44 GMT

The BretA2026 mission is part of the Brazilian Startups Worldwide (BSW) Program by FAPES.

The list of 11 retail techs selected for the next stage of the Brazilian Retail Techs in Argentina – BretA2026 reinforces the strength of Espírito Santo’s innovation ecosystem. Among the companies chosen to advance in the program, ten are based in Espírito Santo. They will now undergo an intensive training phase in preparation for the international mission to Buenos Aires, scheduled to take place from May 10 to 16.

Promoted by the Espírito Santo Research and Innovation Support Foundation (FAPES), in partnership with Fecomércio-ES, BretA2026 prepares retail techs to operate in international markets and connect innovative solutions to the commerce, services, and tourism sectors in Argentina.

The Espírito Santo companies will receive financial support from FAPES to participate in the mission, which acts as a bridge for the expansion of Brazil’s innovation ecosystem, combining cutting-edge technology with the market expertise required to navigate the Argentine business landscape.

Meet the Selected Companies:

Checkbits: Ensures standardization and compliance with operational routines in bars and restaurants through digital checklists with photo evidence and geolocation, eliminating failures that impact profitability. For more information, click here.

Foozi: Optimizes the supply chain by connecting establishments to suppliers and reducing the average cost of acquiring inputs. For more information, click here.

Futuriza: Boosts fashion e-commerce by replacing traditional photo shoots with AI-generated virtual models, reducing production costs by 30% and accelerating collection launches. For more information, click here.

Gerenciar: Using artificial intelligence, the solution eliminates manual inventory control in restaurants, reducing waste by up to 70% through voice-command management and WhatsApp alerts. For more information, click here.

GreenWay: Works on the structural decarbonization of retail chains by integrating climate traceability and verifiable environmental impact projects. For more information, click here.

iaJob: Reduces retail hiring time from 23 days to just 24 hours, using AI to recruit operational staff quickly and accurately. For more information, click here.

Infinite Foundry: Uses digital twins to simulate store layouts and logistics flows before physical implementation, validating investments and anticipating operational bottlenecks. For more information, click here.

Kenit: Focused on the auto parts sector, uses data intelligence to optimize purchasing and inventory, reducing stockouts and eliminating excess tied-up capital. For more information, click here.

Monnera: A specialist in incentive campaign management, the platform automates goal tracking and reward calculations, ensuring sales team engagement and real revenue growth. For more information, click here.

Takeat: A platform that replaces multiple systems by integrating operations, finances, and loyalty management to generate predictable growth in food service establishments. For more information, click here.

Value: A white-label loyalty platform that combines cashback, points, and personalized campaigns to increase customer retention and average ticket size. For more information, click here.

What is BretA2026?

BretA2026 is part of the Brazilian Startups Worldwide (BSW), an internationalization program created by FAPES. The mission is promoted by the Foundation in partnership with Fecomércio Espírito Santo, Bcome.global, Sebrae, the Innovation Diplomacy Program (PDI) of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Espírito Santo Innovation Mobilization (MCI).

The central objective of BretA2026 is to establish long-term connections between Brazilian retail techs and the innovation ecosystem of the neighboring country. The program will culminate in a seven-day international mission in Buenos Aires, which will include participation in Retail Day 2026, one of the leading B2B events in the retail sector in Latin America, as well as business matchmaking sessions and technical visits.

Text: Fecomércio-ES, Agência Buuk, and FAPES Communications Office

Press Information:
FAPES Communications Office
Samantha Nepomuceno | Igor Gonçalves
+55 (27) 3636-1867 | 3636-1858
comunicacao@fapes.es.gov.br

BretA2026 Announces Pre-Selected Retail Techs for International Mission: 14 from Espírito Santo

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 15:26:37 GMT

Companies from Espírito Santo are competing for five spots with financial support of up to R$ 60,000 from Fapes.

BretA2026 – Brazilian Retail Techs in Argentina – has concluded its initial application phase and announced this Friday (16) the list of technology-based companies pre-selected to advance in the program’s activity schedule. In total, 28 Brazilian retail techs were pre-selected, 14 of which are from Espírito Santo.

Representatives from four Brazilian regions — Northeast, Midwest, Southeast, and South — are moving on to the next stage. The pre-selected companies from Espírito Santo remain in the running for up to five spots that will receive financial support of up to R$ 60,000 from the Espírito Santo Research and Innovation Support Foundation (Fapes) to cover the costs of the international mission. The remaining companies will compete for the other 10 available spots.

Below is the list of pre-selected retail techs and their respective states:

Retail Techs	UF
AlterVision	RS
Capim Pimenta	BA
Checkbits	ES
Colecta	RS
Ecomilhas	SP
Eletrodara Gestão de Energia	RS
Foozi	ES
Futuriza	ES
Gander	SP
Gerenciar	ES
GreenWay	ES
iaJob	ES
iNeeds	ES
Infinite Foundry	ES
Inside the Box	SC
Just Travel Viagens e Turismo	BA
Kenit	ES
Monnera Marketing de Incentivo e Fidelização	ES
Okylla	PB
Polus Brasil	DF
PRICE SURVEY	MG
Speach	ES
Takeat	ES
Te Atende	ES
The Fashion Office	ES
Value	PR
Vem de Rotas	MA
VOX EPOWER	RJ

Next Selection Phase

The 28 pre-selected startups will participate in the first phase of the internationalization training stage, focused on business and marketing, scheduled to take place between January 26 and February 20.

Each pre-selected retail tech will receive targeted training for two specific professionals: the CIO (Internationalization Leader) and the CMO (Marketing Leader). During this period, companies will be required to complete mandatory deliverables, which will be rigorously evaluated by the organizers based on quality and punctuality criteria.

The learning tracks were designed to prepare entrepreneurs for the real challenges of internationalization, covering essential topics such as cultural differences and practical guidance on how to — and how not to — conduct business outside Brazil.

In addition, the training will provide support for prior prospecting efforts, teaching strategies for outreach and scheduling meetings, as well as offering practical tips to ensure alignment and success during the international mission.

At the end of the entire process, each company will have finalized its One-page presentation in both English and Portuguese, ensuring a global-ready sales tool.

After this stage, the highest-ranked retail techs will present before an evaluation panel that will select up to 15 companies for the international mission phase in Argentina, scheduled from May 10 to 16, 2026.

Final Results

The final list of selected companies will be announced on February 27, and the official list of participants in the international mission will be released on March 7.

What is BretA2026?

BretA2026 is part of the Brazilian Startups Worldwide (BSW), an internationalization program created by Fapes. The mission is promoted by the Foundation in partnership with Fecomércio Espírito Santo, Bcome.global, Sebrae, the Innovation Diplomacy Program (PDI) of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Mobilização Capixaba pela Inovação (MCI).

The main objective of BretA2026 is to establish lasting connections between Brazilian retail techs and the innovation ecosystem of Argentina. The program will culminate in a seven-day international mission in Buenos Aires, which will include participation in Retail Day 2026 — one of the leading B2B retail sector events in Latin America — as well as business matchmaking rounds and technical visits.

SERVICE:

Pre-Selected Companies for the BretA2026 – Brazilian Retail Techs in Argentina Mission

Click here to learn more.

Press Information:
Fapes Communications Office
Samantha Nepomuceno | Igor Gonçalves
+55 (27) 3636-1867 | +55 (27) 3636-1858
comunicacao@fapes.es.gov.br

CONFAP & MAECI Call: Espírito Santo Project Approved to Collaborate with Italian Institution

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 15:25:53 GMT

Fapes will provide approximately R$ 300,000 to support a research exchange developed at Ufes in partnership with the Institute for Microelectronics and Microsystems in Italy.

The year 2026 began with positive news for the internationalization of research in Espírito Santo. The National Council of State Research Support Foundations (CONFAP) announced last week the results of the CONFAP & MAECI 2024 Call, which aims to support joint research projects between Brazil and Italy. A study funded by the Espírito Santo Research and Innovation Support Foundation (Fapes) is among the ten projects approved nationwide.

The approved project, titled “Hybrid Superconductor/Topological Insulator System: A Promising Spin Valve Device (HYSPID)”, is coordinated by Professor Edson Passamani Caetano from the Department of Physics and Chemistry at the Center for Exact Sciences of the Federal University of Espírito Santo (Ufes). The bilateral cooperation in the field of Physics of Matter and Advanced Materials will be carried out in partnership with the Institute for Microelectronics and Microsystems (IMM-CNR), located in the city of Catania, Italy, under the co-coordination of Italian researcher Roberto Mantovan.

The project’s main objective is to combine the key scientific advances achieved by both teams into a single innovative device designed to explore spin-triplet current conversion. To enable the research exchange, Fapes will provide approximately R$ 300,000 in funding from the Espírito Santo State Fund for Science and Technology (Funcitec).

Fapes Director-General Rodrigo Varejão celebrated the project’s approval in the international call, the result of the Foundation’s partnership with CONFAP and the Italian organization MAECI. “Supporting the internationalization of research is strategic for strengthening science in Espírito Santo, expanding its reach and increasing its relevance on both the national and international stage,” he emphasized.

Service:

– Final results of the CONFAP & MAECI 2024 Call: click here to check the list.

Press Information:
Fapes Communications Office
Samantha Nepomuceno | Igor Gonçalves
+55 (27) 3636-1867 | +55 (27) 3636-1858
comunicacao@fapes.es.gov.br

BretA2026 Selects 14 Retail Techs for the Next Phase of the Program

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 15:25:16 GMT

The organization of the Brazilian Retail Techs in Argentina (BretA2026) program announced this Friday (27) the official results of the technology-based companies selected to advance to the next phase of the schedule. Following a rigorous evaluation by the selection committee, 14 startups were deemed eligible to join the international mission in Argentina, having met all required eligibility and technical capacity criteria.

The first training phase included the development of the Internationalization Canvas, completion of the program’s official One-page document, and refinement of performance metrics. The program’s main objective is to register 300 qualified connections — including partnerships, investors, and market validations — by the end of 2026.

According to the official schedule, the retail techs that sign the Commitment and Adhesion Agreement in the coming days will move on to the second training stage, which will take place from March 9 to May 8. This period will focus on intensive preparation for the international mission to Buenos Aires, scheduled for May 10 to 16, 2026. During the mission, the companies will seek to establish reciprocal ties and commercial partnerships.

The full list of retail techs selected for the international mission is available on the program’s official website.

What is BretA2026?

BretA2026 is part of Brazilian Startups Worldwide (BSW), an internationalization program created by Fapes. The mission is promoted by the Foundation in partnership with Fecomércio Espírito Santo, Bcome.global, Sebrae, the Innovation Diplomacy Program (PDI) of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Mobilização Capixaba pela Inovação (MCI).

The main objective of BretA2026 is to establish lasting connections between Brazilian retail techs and Argentina’s innovation ecosystem. The program will culminate in a seven-day international mission in Buenos Aires, including participation in Retail Day 2026 — one of the leading B2B retail sector events in Latin America — as well as business matchmaking sessions and technical visits.

Text: Agência Buuk

Press Information:
Fapes Communications Office
Samantha Nepomuceno | Igor Gonçalves
+55 (27) 3636-1867 | +55 (27) 3636-1858
comunicacao@fapes.es.gov.br

Fapes Promotes European Union Mission Across the Interior of Espírito Santo

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 15:24:37 GMT

The mission included delegates from France, Slovenia, Belgium, and the Czech Republic.

Strengthening the internationalization of scientific research in Espírito Santo was the main objective of the mission promoted by the Espírito Santo Research and Innovation Support Foundation (Fapes) with representatives from European Union member countries. The agenda was led by Dhallys Mota Nunes, Science, Technology and Innovation Policy Officer at the European Union Delegation to Brazil, and by Fapes’ Technical-Scientific Director, Celso Saibel, and took place from February 24 to 27.

“Fapes had previously promoted a mission in the state capital, and now we wanted to showcase the research and innovation potential we have in the interior of Espírito Santo. There are several education and research institutions carrying out excellent, high-quality work that can establish connections with Europe,” emphasized Celso Saibel.

Laboratories and research centers located from north to south of Espírito Santo were visited during the mission, which traveled through the cities of Linhares, Marilândia, Santa Teresa, Venda Nova do Imigrante, Alegre, and Piúma.

“It was one of the best ideas a State Research Foundation has ever had. Decentralizing the agenda is also a priority of the European Commission, so that opportunities for scientific and technological cooperation and research mobility with the European Union reach not only capital cities but also inland regions. This agenda allowed us to see beautiful places in Espírito Santo, with outstanding researchers and major research centers and institutions, such as those developed by Incaper, the National Institute of the Atlantic Forest (Melo Leitão Museum), Ufes, and Ifes,” said Dhallys Mota Nunes.

The EU Delegation officer continued: “This mission demonstrated not only to the European Union, but also to its member states, the potential for scientific collaboration between Brazil and the European Union.”

Layla Pinheiro, Head of Economic, Environmental and Scientific Affairs for Slovenia in Brazil, was part of the mission. It was her first time in Espírito Santo, and she was impressed by the research conducted in the state.

“Espírito Santo has incredible potential, especially in coffee production. There are several studies underway to track and confirm sustainability, which is extremely important for the European Union, particularly in light of the EU-Mercosur Agreement. It was truly amazing to be here these days. Congratulations to Fapes for the work it is doing, both in decentralizing and internationalizing research developed in Espírito Santo,” Layla Pinheiro noted.

Representing France, Vincent Brignol, Science and Technology Attaché at the Consulate General of France in Rio de Janeiro, participated in the mission and praised the initiative.

“It was a very enriching experience. We visited several research and training centers in the interior of Espírito Santo and here in Vitória, and I believe there are many opportunities to develop cooperation with France in particular and with the European Union more broadly,” he said.

“We saw many initiatives in agriculture and food science, which are also strong areas in France. We have research institutes dedicated to these fields, with representatives based in Brazil. So I believe there may be future cooperation opportunities. In the blue economy field as well — we visited the Ifes campus in Piúma, which develops very interesting projects with great potential. In addition to what is already happening here in Vitória, where there are important collaborations in engineering that we can further expand,” Vincent Brignol added.

Belgium already maintains a partnership with a company from Espírito Santo, supported by Fapes, and the country’s representative also took part in the mission. Julie Dumont, Scientific and Academic Counselor of Belgium in Brazil, said she found it important and interesting to visit the interior of the state.

“I was already familiar with some of the state’s competencies, as we have a game development company from Espírito Santo that established itself in Belgium — Mito Games — through the Horizon Europe Program. This has led to the creation of an entire innovation ecosystem in the gaming sector, including scientific applications of gaming. In addition, there is an AI project from Espírito Santo in the area of media literacy education currently being developed. There are also numerous research initiatives in sustainable agriculture, among others. It was truly interesting to better understand the ecosystems in order to strengthen existing projects and build bridges between them. There are clear synergies,” explained Julie Dumont.

Also participating in the mission was Nathália Burian, Honorary Consul of the Czech Republic in Vitória.

Final Day of the Mission

The mission concluded with an event at Fapes headquarters in Vitória last Friday (27), attended by representatives of the EU member countries and the EU Science, Technology and Innovation Policy Officer in Brazil, as well as representatives from public and private education and research institutions in the Greater Vitória Metropolitan Region.

Press Information:
Fapes Communications Office
Samantha Nepomuceno | Igor Gonçalves
+55 (27) 3636-1867 | +55 (27) 3636-1858
comunicacao@fapes.es.gov.br

Fapes Hosts European Union Mission in Espírito Santo to Expand International Cooperation in Science and Innovation

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 15:21:57 GMT

European delegation will visit research institutions in Espírito Santo and present collaboration opportunities with European Union member states.

Between February 24 and 27, Espírito Santo will host the European Union Research and International Cooperation Mission, with support from the Espírito Santo Research and Innovation Support Foundation (Fapes). The initiative aims to strengthen strategic partnerships in Science, Technology, and Innovation (ST&I) within the state. The mission will be led by Dhallys Mota Nunes, Science, Technology and Innovation Policy Officer at the European Union Delegation to Brazil, and will include scientific advisers and representatives from Slovenia, France, and the Wallonia-Brussels region in Belgium.

Over four days, the European delegation, accompanied by representatives from Fapes, will visit several municipalities across the state to learn about Research, Development, and Innovation (R&D&I) projects and to present opportunities for international cooperation. According to Fapes Technical-Scientific Director Celso Saibel, the mission represents a strategic step toward increasing the international presence of research in Espírito Santo.

“Strengthening ties with the European Union expands opportunities for scientific cooperation, researcher exchanges, and participation in international calls. This mission reinforces Espírito Santo’s position in the global science and innovation landscape and creates new opportunities for our institutions and researchers,” Saibel emphasized.

Program from North to South

Activities begin on Tuesday (24) in Linhares, with a presentation at the Espírito Santo Institute for Research, Technical Assistance and Rural Extension (Incaper), followed by visits to projects involving coffee, chocolate, papaya, and biological reserves in the region.

On Wednesday (25), the agenda continues in Santa Teresa, with meetings at the National Institute of the Atlantic Forest (INMA – Melo Leitão Museum), including a guided tour of the zoobotanical park and discussions with researchers. On the same day, the delegation will visit Coffee Design at the Federal Institute of Espírito Santo (Ifes) in Venda Nova do Imigrante.

On Thursday (26), activities will take place in Alegre, with a presentation at the Federal University of Espírito Santo (Ufes), as well as visits to Ifes – Rive/Alegre and the Department of Forest and Wood Sciences (CCAE/Ufes) in Jerônimo Monteiro. The agenda then continues to Piúma, with an institutional visit to the Ifes campus in the municipality.

The mission will conclude on Friday (27) at the Fapes auditorium in Vitória. The closing event will feature presentations on cooperation opportunities between the European Union and institutions in Espírito Santo, followed by a dedicated session for bilateral meetings with the Delegation.

Press Information:
Fapes Communications Office
Samantha Nepomuceno | Igor Gonçalves
+55 (27) 3636-1867 | +55 (27) 3636-1851
comunicacao@fapes.es.gov.br