The 2025 Carnival is expected to generate an economic impact of over R$ 12 billion in Brazil, a 2.1% increase compared to the previous year, according to estimates from the National Confederation of Commerce of Goods, Services, and Tourism (CNC). The period solidifies itself as one of the main drivers of the creative economy and the service sector in the country.
Bars and restaurants lead the revenue for the period, with an estimated income of R$ 5.4 billion, followed by transportation services, expected to generate R$ 3.3 billion, and accommodation, with R$ 1.3 billion in revenue. Additionally, the event is expected to create over 32,600 temporary jobs, with the food sector standing out, accounting for more than 22,800 positions.
With the economic boost during the festivities, small entrepreneurs find opportunities to grow, especially in the fashion, food, and tourism sectors. However, according to experts, the key to sustaining revenue throughout the year lies in business formalization.
Professionalism and credibility in seasonal entrepreneurship
Even in businesses focused on a specific period, such as Carnival, professionalization is an essential factor to generate credibility and differentiation in the market. According to Rafael Caribé, CEO of Agilize, how an entrepreneur manages their service, even if temporary, can define success and the possibility of expansion into other opportunities.
“‘Even in a seasonal business, operating with professionalism makes all the difference. Those who treat customers seriously, offer quality products or services, and maintain an organized operation increase the chances of customer loyalty and generating new opportunities, whether for other events or even for a permanent business in the future,’ explains Caribé.
Formalization and sustainable growth
The CEO emphasizes that legalizing operations can be a differentiator for entrepreneurs who want to use Carnival as a starting point for continuous growth.
‘Carnival opens doors for those who want to start a business, but it’s crucial to think about the business’s future. Formalizing ensures access to credit, issuing invoices, and the possibility of expanding activities beyond the festive period,’ says Caribé.
Moreover, this formalization brings the possibility of conducting larger business deals.
‘It’s the chance to establish contracts that protect personal assets, separate personal and business finances, and even qualify for social security benefits,’ reminds the CEO.‘
The creative economy, which includes sectors such as fashion, audiovisual, music, crafts, and performing arts, plays a significant role in this scenario. According to a survey by the National Confederation of Shopkeepers (CNDL) and the Credit Protection Service (SPC Brasil), each reveler is expected to spend, on average, R$ 805 on costumes, accessories, transportation, and food, boosting demand for local products and services.
With a record number of foreign tourists in Brazil and a positive outlook for the coming years, Carnival remains one of the most profitable events in the country, reinforcing the need for small business owners to seek ways to structure and expand their businesses beyond the festive season: ‘Entrepreneurship goes beyond seizing a good opportunity. Those who formalize can turn a seasonal business into a fixed income source, exploring new markets and maintaining growth throughout the year,’ concludes Caribé.
