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BRLink boosts retail with artificial intelligence and machine learning solutions

The Brazilian retail sector recorded its highest growth in 12 years in 2024, with a 4.7% increase in sales, according to IBGE. However, the outlook for 2025 indicates a slowdown in this area, which should motivate companies to seek innovative solutions to maintain competitiveness. In this scenario, BRLink, the Brazilian leader in cloud services, stands out by offering advanced technologies based on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) to enhance the consumer experience and optimize internal processes. With extensive expertise in data and generative AI, BRLink has been supporting the retail sector in the transition to the public cloud, helping companies solve business challenges and drive operational efficiency.

The well-executed use of these tools can help, for example, retailers turn data into valuable insights. "The future of retail will be shaped by the ability to collect, process, and interpret large volumes of information," says Guilherme Barreiro, director of BRLink.AI allows those responsible for these establishments to anticipate demands, personalize consumer experiences, and increase operational efficiency.

Barreiro also comments on a study by the Capgemini Research Institute, which indicates that 46% of consumers are excited about generative AI in their online shopping and that 58% have already replaced traditional search engines with GenAI tools as a reference for product and service recommendations. "Consumers desire personalization and speed. With AI, it is possible to offer tailored recommendations and optimize interactions, making each shopping experience more efficient," he says.

To maximize the benefits of AI and ML in retail, Barreiro recommends four essential strategies:

1. Define clear objectives. "Investing in AI should be aligned with business challenges such as demand forecasting, inventory management, and offer personalization."

2. Structure data intelligently. "The quality of data is crucial for the success of AI initiatives. Fragmented or inconsistent data can compromise the effectiveness of algorithms."

3. Adopt scalable solutions: "AI technologies should be implemented flexibly, allowing adjustments as the market evolves and consumer behavior changes."

4. Ensure security and privacy. The intelligent use of data must be balanced with privacy protection strategies and compliance with regulations.

According to the executive, using advanced algorithms, retailers can also optimize inventory, predict consumption trends, and reduce waste. "During strategic dates, such as Mother's Day and Black Friday, machine learning models enable demand forecasting and more precise adjustment of product distribution. By analyzing historical data and behavioral patterns, it is possible to optimize inventory management, minimize losses, and ensure that the right products are available at the ideal time," explains.

Finally, the BRLink director highlights that among the trends for 2025 are the expansion of cashierless stores and the use of inventory robots and autonomous vehicles for delivery. Furthermore, mobile and contactless payments are expected to grow by 12.4% annually until 2034, according to IntelliPay. "The digital transformation of retail is irreversible. Companies that adopt AI are better prepared to serve increasingly demanding consumers, ensuring speed, security, and convenience. BRLink's commitment is to assist them in strategically positioning themselves in an increasingly dynamic and data-driven market," she concludes.

Circana announces the winners of the 2024 Toy Industry Performance Awards

Circana, a global data tech company for consumer behavior analysis, announced the winners of the 14th edition of the Toy Industry Performance Awards. The award recognizes the best-selling and fastest-growing toys, properties, and manufacturers in 2024, based on data fromRetail Tracking Servicefrom Circana.

"It is always a pleasure to highlight the great successes of the toy industry, whether innovative products or classic properties that continue to captivate generations," says Ricardo Solar, executive vice president of entertainment at Circana. "These awards reflect a dynamic and competitive market," he/she/they adds.

Global Highlights

  • Manufacturer of the Year The LEGO Group
  • Best Selling Property Pokémon – The Pokémon Company
  • Best-Selling Toy Hot Wheels Singles 1:64 Assortment – Mattel

USA

  • Best Selling Property Pokémon – The Pokémon Company
  • Best-Selling Toy Hot Wheels Singles 1:64 Assortment – Mattel

Brazil

  • Best Selling Property Hot Wheels – Mattel
  • Best-Selling Toy Hot Wheels Singles 1:64 Assortment – Mattel
  • Best-selling toys in Brazil by supercategory(image attached)

The winners are selected based on the analysis of retail sales value throughout 2024, highlighting the brands and products that stood out in an increasingly dynamic market.

The future of consumption: trends that are redefining the customer experience

THEConsumer MonthIt is marked by major promotions and discounts, reflecting the competitiveness of retail and changes in purchasing behavior. In an increasingly digital and experience-focused market, companies need to go beyond low prices, investing in personalization, convenience, and innovation to attract and retain customers.

Today’s consumer is more demanding and expects much more than just good prices or products. It values brands that deliver convenience, personalization, and a clear purpose. In this scenario, technology plays a key role, making experiences more seamless, service more agile, and solutions more aligned with your needs. Companies that successfully combine technology and customer experience strategically will not only stand out during occasions like Consumer Month but also build a strong and lasting relationship throughout the year., analyzes Alexandre Della Volpe, Marketing Director of Rcell, one of the largest technology distributors in Brazil.

Among the trends shaping not only the Consumer Month but also important dates such as Mother's Day, Valentine's Day, Father's Day, and even Black Friday, the following stand out:

  • Phygital – integration of the physical with the digital:The fusion between the physical and digital worlds is becoming stronger, with stores investing in immersive experiences such as augmented reality and virtual fitting rooms to engage consumers.
  • AI shopping assistantsThe use of artificial intelligence in customer service is growing every day. With this, it is now possible to offer even personalized recommendations and 24/7 support through advanced chatbots and voice assistants.
  • Conscious and sustainable consumptionMost of the clients are watching the companies' good practices. This involves knowing whether brands are truly committed to sustainability, preferring ethically sourced products, eco-friendly packaging, and well-established ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) practices.
  • Live commerce and social shoppingDriven by the pandemic, social media has now established itself as a major purchasing channel. Various brands use strategies such as live broadcasts and influencers to boost their sales interactively and bring them even closer to their customers.

The phenomenon of live shopping on social media has already established itself as a powerful strategy to boost sales and engage consumers. One of the biggest examples of this success is influencers who turned live broadcasts into true consumption events, moving millions of reais in just a few hours. This direct and interactive connection creates a sense of urgency and closeness, making the shopping experience much more engaging. For brands, investing in this format means not only selling more but also strengthening the relationship with the audience in an authentic and effective way.", emphasizes Alexandre."

  • Experience-based loyalty programsThe traditional points and discounts, which were very common before, are being replaced by exclusive benefits, such as early access to launches, events or VIP groups, and product customization.
  • "Invisible" paymentsCustomers are increasingly practical and choosing faster and smoother payment methods in order to make the shopping experience more convenient. Among them are biometric authentication, digital wallets, and interest-free installment payments through fintechs.

With an increasingly demanding and connected consumer, adapting to new trends is no longer an option but a necessity for brands that want to stay relevant. Customization, technological innovation, and concern for sustainability are fundamental pillars for success in the current market. Companies that manage to combine convenience, experience, and purpose will have a valuable competitive advantage, winning customer loyalty and driving their business in 2025 and beyond.

How to open a food e-commerce in 2025?

In recent years, online food commerce has expanded significantly in Brazil. According to theBrazilian Electronic Commerce Association (ABComm)online transactions in this sector grew by 42% between 2022 and 2024.

This advance reflects a transformation in consumer behavior, driven mainly by the Covid-19 pandemic, which accelerated retail digitization.

In this context, many entrepreneurs in the food industry are betting on digital to expand their operations and reach a broader audience. But what are the initial steps to structure a food e-commerce in 2025?

Structuring the business: essential first steps

To start an e-commerce in the food segment, a detailed plan is essential. Unlike other areas, this sector requires special attention to logistics, storage, and compliance with sanitary regulations.

The first step is to define the operating model: will it be a trade of dry, perishable, organic, or frozen products? Each type has specific requirements, from transportation to ideal storage conditions.

Another fundamental aspect is obtaining the necessary health authorizations. In Brazil, the commercialization of food online is regulated by the National Health Surveillance Agency (Anvisa) and must follow the guidelines of the Consumer Defense Code.

Furthermore, the E-commerce Law (Decree 7,962/2013) establishes rules regarding transparency, exchange policies, and clear information for customers.

Create your own website or sell through a marketplace?

One of the first decisions for those wishing to enter online food commerce is to choose between developing an exclusive online store or using marketplaces. Having your own website ensures greater control over brand identity, user experience, and pricing.

However, established platforms like iFood and Mercado Livre already have an established audience and can expedite initial sales.

If the choice is for a dedicated website, it is essential to invest in a secure and responsive platform. Features such as payment integration, mobile device adaptation, and intuitive navigation contribute to a positive shopping experience.

How to promote e-commerce and attract customers

Business promotion is one of the pillars of an e-commerce's success. Strategies such as paid advertising, content marketing, and social media help attract consumers and strengthen brand presence. Additionally, partnerships with influencers and loyalty programs can increase engagement and encourage repeat purchases.

Another indispensable tool is SEO (Search Engine Optimization). Applying strategic keywords, creating detailed product descriptions, and investing in blogs about healthy eating are effective ways to improve the store's ranking in search engines.

Logistics and delivery: challenges and solutions for the food sector

Food distribution requires efficient planning. Perishable products, for example, require refrigerated transportation and prompt deliveries. Small and medium-sized businesses can turn to partnerships with specialized logistics companies or delivery apps to optimize operations.

Fernanda Abdala, e-commerce manager at Banca do Ramon, comments on the necessary adaptations to ensure quality deliveries: "We work with high-end products and always analyze logistical solutions that provide the customer with an experience similar to in-store shopping." Whether for wines and champagnes, or foods such ascodfishand cold cuts, everything needs to maintain quality and arrive quickly.

Another rising trend is the "dark store" model – small distribution centers focused exclusively on digital commerce. This strategy has been adopted by entrepreneurs seeking to reduce delivery time and ensure efficient service.

What to expect from the food e-commerce market in the coming years?

The growth of digital shopping is expected to continue intensifying, driven by convenience and the wide variety of products available online. For entrepreneurs in the food industry, investing in technology, optimized logistics, and digital marketing strategies will be essential to stand out from the competition.

Keeping up with trends and understanding consumer preferences are key factors for success in online food commerce. The future of online sales promises numerous opportunities for businesses of all sizes that know how to innovate and meet the new demands of the modern audience.

Netshoes Run Tour spreads the experience of races and special "training sessions" across Brazil

Netshoes, an e-commerce platform for sports and lifestyle products, has just launched the Netshoes Run Tour, an event that will bring the brand's traditional road race experience across Brazil and promote an active lifestyle, the company's motto. In addition to the races, the news includes the "training sessions" added to the route and new distances to promote an active and sporty lifestyle. Throughout the year, there will be two exams held in Brasília and São Paulo, and four practice sessions in Belo Horizonte, Rio de Janeiro, Recife, and Belém.

"We are very excited to bring our road running experience to more states and people, as well as promote themed running workouts," says Gabriele Claudino, Netshoes' marketing head. Our tour carries our positioning of encouraging sports, always at your pace. It is an event for beginner runners, athletes, and also for families, as we offer races for children. It is a complete sporting experience.

The first stage of the races takes place on May 18th at the Esplanade of Ministries, in the Federal District. The second will be in São Paulo, on August 24th, at Parque do Povo. Runners can choose to run 5 km, 10 km, or 15 km, and for São Paulo runners, there is also the option to take on a half marathon (21 km). The two stages feature options for children, and once again, the São Paulo stage will have adidas as a partner with an exclusive brand shirt to be worn by the athletes. The expectation is to gather 14,000 people in the two races.

The "training sessions" take place between March and November, and for these events, Netshoes will bring special themes. An example is the "Women's Month Training Session," which will take place on March 29th in Belo Horizonte, at Belvedere Square. There will be three hours of exercises, with 100% of the spots reserved for women, and the registrations were sold out in 24 hours. For Cariocas, the "big training session" will focus on the "month of lovers" and aims to bring couples together – but not only! -, with forecast for June 7. For Recife and Belém, the events are scheduled for September and November, respectively.

For this year, the brand's race has been revamped and features a new concept and a more modern and youthful visual identity, aiming to bring a festival atmosphere to the events that will take place in six states in Brazil this year.

A Netshoes Run, in previous editions, also took place in cities such as Franca, in the interior of São Paulo, Florianópolis, in Santa Catarina, and Salvador, in Bahia. Last year, the São Paulo edition brought 5,000 runners to Marginal Pinheiros.

The event is an important pillar of the company, marks its physical presence, and gets closer to consumers and runners. Last year, the company introduced its new positioning and adopted a strategy focused on adding new elements to the relationship with consumers, with more content, influence, and exclusive events for the sports universe.

Registrations for the races and training sessions are already open. To register, visit:https://www.netshoes.com.br/netshoes-run

The Future of Retail: How Artificial Intelligence is Revolutionizing the Shopping Experience

The shopping experience will never be the same. Driven by Artificial Intelligence, the new era of digital retail is transforming the relationship between brands and consumers. Intelligent systems are now capable of anticipating desires, understanding behaviors, and providing accurate recommendations in real time – making each interaction more efficient and personalized.

The adoption of Artificial Intelligence as a market tool has never been so prominent. According to a recent unprecedented survey conducted by SAP, "Artificial Intelligence in the corporate world," Brazil is the country that invests the most in AI: 52% of national companies have a completely positive perception of using AI in the workplace, and another 27% view it favorably. Overall, 62% of surveyed decision-makers state that they plan to increase investment in AI adoption compared to 2024. The main drivers for adopting AI are the pursuit of improving customer experience (64%) and organizational productivity (51%).

Specifically in retail, if the challenge was previously to attract the consumer's attention, today the focus is on offering tailored experiences, reducing friction in the purchasing process, and increasing conversion rates. Companies that adopt AI-based solutions are already seeing significant impacts: e-commerce businesses using personalized Generative Artificial Intelligence record, on average, a 25% increase in sales conversion and a customer retention rate 30% higher, according to data from ShopNext.AI. The company specializes in customized solutions through cutting-edge Artificial Intelligence technology, helping retailers and marketplaces achieve unprecedented results in the market.

AI in practice: how AD Lifestyle boosted sales and service with cutting-edge technology 

A recent example of this transformation comes from the partnership between VTEX and ShopNext.AI for the retailer AD Lifestyle. The project used Generative AI to optimize customer service and personalize recommendations, resulting in a 12% increase in sales and a significant reduction in response time to consumers. The implementation combinedchatbots smart, predictive analysis, and a smoother purchase journey, showing how AI can go beyond personalization and generate a direct impact on companies' revenue.

Artificial Intelligence is redefining what it means to serve a customer well. It's not just about suggesting products, but about creating an intelligent, intuitive, and above all, relevant shopping journey. This is the major differentiator of the new phase of retail, explains Pedro Duarte, CEO of ShopNext.AI.

More than just sales: AI and building customer loyalty 

The revolution driven by Artificial Intelligence is not just about boosting sales – it changes the way consumers perceive and connect with brands. By creating personalized and contextual experiences, technology strengthens the bond between companies and customers, increasing loyalty and the perceived value of the brand.

"The consumer wants convenience and relevance. Offering a tailored experience is no longer a differentiator but a necessity for those who wish to stay competitive in the market. We are witnessing a definitive transition to a smarter, user-centered retail," adds Duarte.

The future has already begun 

As Artificial Intelligence evolves, retail is moving to a new level, where the integration between digital and physical will become increasingly seamless. Advanced solutions, such as intelligent virtual assistants and predictive algorithms, already demonstrate that technology will be a key element in building the retail of the future – a more agile, efficient, and truly consumer-centric retail.

According to the CEO of ShopNext.AI, the revolution is underway. "For brands and retailers, the big question is no longer whether Artificial Intelligence will be adopted, but when and how it will be implemented to generate a competitive advantage," concludes the executive.

With corporate multi-benefits, Ecx Pay moves R$115 million in TPV in the first year of operation and targets competitors

Founded with the purpose of simplifying and unifying the management of all flexible benefits, bonuses, salary advances and corporate expenses in a single application,Ecx Paycompletes one year of operation with the brandR$ 115 million in total payment volume (TPV).

The corporate multi-benefit card startup currently processesR$ 24 million per month in transactions and serves a base of 1,200 companies and 50,000 users.The expansion plan foresees quadrupling this volume by the end of 2025, moving R$400 million annually.

“The benefits market moves around R$150 billion per year in Brazil, and some companies have already reached R$1 billion in monthly TPV in less than five years. We will compete head-on, bringing as a differentiator the unification of all essential financial benefits for HR in a single platform”, says João Henrique Innecco, co-founder of Ecx Pay.

In addition to consolidating corporate benefits on a single card, which can be physical or virtual – an option that reduces implementation and logistics costs for HR managers and also for the employee, who can access the benefit from the first day of work.

The virtual option has also been popular because it meets ESG objectives within client companies – the Ecx Pay platform also offersAnteciPay, a salary anticipation solution that allows the company to release up to 30% of the salary as credit for card purchases. The HR manager defines the limit and the types of stores where the card can be used. The benefit has costs managed by the platform and is integrated into the payroll, allowing purchases up to 45 days in advance.

Salary advance is a solution that addresses a common pain point for Brazilians. According to the Consumer Debt and Default Survey, three out of four Brazilians have less than R$ 200 left over between salary cycles. "We found that 87% of purchases made with AnteciPay by our users are for basic needs such as food and health, with an average ticket of R$ 219. It is a solution that, on one hand, prevents employees from accumulating debt or abusive interest, and on the other hand, improves the company's cash flow and increases employee satisfaction," explains João Henrique Innecco.

All Ecx Pay users have access to exclusive discounts of up to 70% at partner networks such as Pague Menos, Drogasil, Droga Raia, Daki, Petlove, and Chefs Club. The platform also partnered with some states to offer discounts of up to 15% on expenses such as electricity. Another benefit for users is the points program with Mastercard, where the user earns 1 point for each purchase.Another option that the card offers is allowing employees to withdraw prizes and bonuses directly through the card.

In 2025, Ecx Pay plans to launch two new features.One of them is to transform the benefits card into a corporate card, helping companies manage employees' travel expenses and daily office and everyday expenses more easily. Within this modality, Ecx Pay aims to offer a specific feature to assist companies in fleet management, supporting the control of expenses related to vehicle maintenance and fueling.

With operations throughout Brazil, Ecx Pay's target audience includes companies with 50 to 2,000 employees and features brands such as MRV, Fini, V4 Company, and Unipar in its portfolio. A startup was conceived within Ecx Card, a company with over 30 years in the market that offers concession card solutions and has served more than 7,000 companies, handling over R$ 4 billion.

The importance of efficient logistics in the experience economy

We usually treat logistics as an operational gear, that is, necessary but invisible. Gross error.

In the experience economy, every delivery is atouchpointemotional, and each interaction with the customer is a moment of truth capable of boosting or destroying reputations. Furthermore, a McKinsey study reveals that companies combining operational efficiency with memorable experiences grow twice as fast as the market average.

The delivery experience is no longer just about receiving a package. It covers everything from punctuality and the condition in which the item arrives to the communication carried out during the process. And if there are failures, it is necessary to be transparent and seize opportunities to regain the customer's trust.

Customer expectations have evolved from "fast delivery" to integrated experiences that combine speed and personalization.PwC data reveals that 73% of consumers consider the post-purchase experience as crucial as the product itself, signaling a structural shift in organizations' value equation.

Customer expectations have evolved from "fast delivery" to integrated experiences that combine speed and personalization.PwC data reveals that 73% of consumers consider the post-purchase experience as crucial as the product itself, signaling a structural shift in organizations' value equation.

Market studies show that logistical inefficiency costs Brazilian companies up to 12% of their annual revenue, considering returns, replacements, and loss of customers. On the other hand, optimized operations generate: an 18% increase in the repurchase rate; a 40% reduction in customer service costs by eliminating rework; a 25% growth inlifetime valuefor effective loyalty.

With the change in customer expectations, the obsession with short deadlines has become a commodity. The difference lies in orchestrating positive surprises: a delivery person who anticipates the arrival time via personalized SMS, packaging that tells the brand's story, or even a discount voucher after an unforeseen event are small gestures that delight.

Imagine the following: a shipment arrives with damages at the customer's location. The most common reaction would be to request an immediate refund. But, even with the problem, there is a great opportunity there. Why not send a new item along with a sincere apology? This simple gesture could turn detractors into ambassadors – and it costs much less than investing in advertising campaigns, for example.

Therefore, there is always an opportunity to earn the customer's trust so as not to lose them. It is always necessary to be attentive to this type of situation.

Another fundamental point is knowing how to listen to the client. Monitoring OTIF (On Time In Full) is basic. Companies truly concerned with good service should measure: how many customers spontaneously praise the delivery process? What is the financial impact of a poorly resolved complaint on social media? How does the NPS (Net Promoter Score) correlate with the repurchase rate?

Some actions for good service can help retain customers. Even though it may seem obvious, it is often ignored by companies. See three of them

  1. Be quick to give feedbackClients value when their questions are answered quickly. For this, it is essential to use order tracking systems and keep customers informed, as well as, of course, train the team to respond quickly to questions and inquiries;
  2. Always put yourself in the customer's shoesHaving empathy is fundamental. Showing that you care makes all the difference. This demonstrates that he is truly important to the company;
  3. Have fhollow in problem solvingPropose solutions to effectively resolve setbacks. But always keep in mind that good customer service is not just about solving problems; it should be seen as something to build bonds with customers.

Certainly, one of the main challenges now is to make everyone in the company know and understand the importance of their work for the business as a whole, always seeking to have the ultimate goal of delighting the customer.

In highly competitive markets such as Retail and Logistics, customer service can be what makes your company more attractive than your competitor.

Therefore, it is no longer possible to view customer service as something operational.It's strategic!

10 tips to overcome the shame of recording videos on the internet and earn more

Nowadays, those with small businesses need the internet to increase brand visibility, generate engagement, and facilitate direct communication with customers. Video content has greater reach and retention on social media and makes the message more persuasive and accessible. Additionally, with them it is possible to demonstrate products, services, and values dynamically, creating a connection and increasing the audience's trust.

But it's not always easy to record for the internet; the fear of exposure and excessive self-criticism are usually natural barriers, but entirely surmountable. According to communication and public speaking expert with over 15 years of dedicated studies on the subject, Giovanni Begossi, the secret lies in changing the relationship with the camera and turning the recording into a genuine conversation.

Giovanni shares 10 tips to make practice feel more natural. Confira: 

1 – Turn your camera into your ally. The camera is not a judge, but a channel to connect people. Imagine you're talking to a close friend and look into the lens as if it were that person. Making eye contact with the camera conveys confidence and brings the audience closer. Furthermore, the more personal and natural your approach is, the easier it will be to let go.

2 – Serious without the intention to publish and remove the pressure of external judgment. At the beginning, make videos just for yourself; this helps to get used to your own voice, expressions, and the feeling of positioning yourself in front of the camera.

3 – Practice every day; the ability to communicate on video improves with repetition. Propose a personal challenge to yourself: record a short video daily, even if you don't publish it. In a short time, you will notice the progress.

4 – Use a simple script. Note the main points you want to address, but avoid memorizing word for word. The naturalness comes from understanding the subject, not from memorization.

5 – Oil that perfection does not exist. Authentic videos create more connection than highly rehearsed ones. Small errors are part of real communication; fix what you can, but don't be paralyzed by perfectionism.

6 – Consider blocking or hiding some people on Instagram. If you have colleagues, family members, or acquaintances whom you feel may judge or mock the content, consider hiding these people.

7 – Adjust your posture and breathing. An open posture and controlled breathing help with confidence. Before recording, take a few deep breaths and release the tension from your shoulders. That improves diction and naturalness.

8 – Edit only what is necessary. Editing can help, but don't overdo it. Overly cut videos can appear artificial. Allow your audience to see your true way of expressing yourself.

9 – Watch the videos with a constructive perspective. When reviewing your recordings, focus on what can be improved and what is already working. Avoid being overly critical – evolution comes with gradual adjustments, not self-sabotage.

10 – Start small, but start, and know that the first video will always be the hardest. Don't wait for the perfect moment or the perfect equipment. Pick up the phone, press "record," and take the first step. The earlier you start, the faster you'll lose your shyness. And always remember: the audience values authenticity much more than perfection.

With 42 startups and 14 large market-leading companies, Passo Fundo will host the 11th edition of Startup Day, Saturday (22/03)

Passo Fundo, one of the main economic and technological hubs in the Northern region of Rio Grande do Sul, will host one of the country's largest innovation and entrepreneurship events. This Saturday (03/22), Arena UPF Park will host the Startup Day Passo Fundo – Boosting Connections and Business, promoted by Sebrae Startups in partnership with the local innovation ecosystem.

With the presence of 42 startups, innovative and technology companies, as well as 14 major market-leading companies, the event will be an opportunity for entrepreneurs to expand their networks and explore new strategic partnerships. The business session will be one of the highlights of the program, allowing each company to present its products and services in a dynamic and interactive format.

The 11th edition of Startup Day is part of a national movement to promote startups and innovative solutions. With the expectation of surpassing the previous edition, which impacted over 26,000 participants in 184 municipalities, the event aims to further expand its reach, reaching more than 300 cities in 2025.

“It is worth highlighting the strategic importance of Startup Day Passo Fundo for the development of our regional innovation ecosystem. We believe that the future is consolidated with collaboration and this event was carefully planned to connect technology companies with market leaders, fostering collaboration and opening doors to new opportunities”, says Niege Canabarro, Innovation and Ecosystem Project Manager at Sebrae RS North Region.

Leading companies driving business

Among the major companies confirmed for the event are Cavalleti SA, Grupo Grazziotin, Grupo FotoSul, Stara, Grupo J2M, Instituto Aliança Empresarial, Mercadados, Robustec, Voa Hub, and Sicredi, in addition to the Passo Fundo City Hall. These corporations are ready to engage with startups and foster partnerships that drive the region's economy and innovation.

How to participate

The event will be entirely in-person and aimed at startups, technology companies and innovative businesses that want to expand their connections and explore new market opportunities.

Startup Day Passo Fundo is an initiative of Sebrae Startups, in partnership with UPF Parque and has the support of the City of Passo Fundo, through the Innovation Department, as well as Comunidade Vértice, Instituto Aliança Empresarial, Voa Hub and Polo Sul.

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