Traditionally known for its beautiful beaches and rich culture, Ceará is quickly emerging as one of Brazil’s leading innovation hubs. The region has seen significant growth in technology investment, with the state expected to attract more than R$1.45 billion in 2023, according to Ceará’s Secretariat for Economic Development and Labor. In this week’s article, Bring Consulting explores how the state is leveraging innovation and technology to drive its development and attract investment.
1. Public incentive policies:
The government of Ceará has implemented a series of public policies focused on creating a favorable environment for innovation. The Secretariat of Science, Technology and Higher Education (SECITECE) has played a crucial role in launching programs such as the Economic Clusters of Innovation, which aims to create 10,000 new jobs in the sector by 2025.
2. Startup ecosystem:
Ceará is becoming a fertile ground for startups. According to FIEC, the number of startups in the state grew by 25% between 2022 and 2023. With incubators and accelerators spread across the capital and the countryside, the state has become a cradle of innovation, especially in the areas of information technology, renewable energy and agribusiness. Success stories, such as Solar Cearense and Mob Telecom, illustrate how the favorable environment has allowed innovative ideas to become profitable businesses.
3. Technological infrastructure:
Ceará’s infrastructure has also been a differentiator. The Ceará Digital Belt (CDC) is one of the largest digital inclusion projects in Brazil, connecting more than 100 municipalities with high-speed internet. In addition, the expansion of the Port of Pecém, in partnership with the Port of Rotterdam, is transforming the state into an important logistics and technology hub.
4. Strategic partnerships:
The state has attracted international partnerships that boost regional development. Global companies such as Qair Brasil, which operates in the renewable energy sector, and Eneva, are investing heavily in innovation projects in Ceará, creating a virtuous cycle of innovation, job creation and economic growth. These partnerships have also enabled the transfer of technology and knowledge, further strengthening the local ecosystem.
Ceará is proving that with visionary public policies, a favorable business environment, and robust infrastructure, it is possible to transform a region into a hub of innovation and technology. The future of the state is bright, and the opportunities for investors and companies are endless. The state is poised to lead the way in innovation in Brazil and beyond.
