Start Site Page 372

70% of mobile traffic in Latin America is generated by three platforms, reveals a GSMA report

In the context of the fair share debate, the GSMA presents the 'Use of mobile networks in Latin America, the first in a series of reports to contribute to the regional discussion with data and evidence. This initial report provides a snapshot of mobile traffic in the region up to May 2024, by company and content type, at an aggregated level and by subregion and/or country. The most conclusive finding of the study is that three companies — Meta, Alphabet (Google), and TikTok — generate more than 70% of mobile download traffic in Latin America. Meta accounts for nearly 50%; Alphabet totals 14% and TikTok, 8%.

The report also examines mobile traffic by type of use, with social media access (41%), web browsing (29%), and streaming (19%) leading the list. This podium repeats throughout the region, with some variations. In Central America and Mexico, for example, the order remains the same, but social media accounts for nearly 60% of the total. In Argentina, Chile, and Paraguay, streaming is above web browsing. In the Andean Region, streaming becomes the most popular type, accounting for 38% of the total. In Brazil, social media accounts for 40%, web browsing 30%, and streaming represents the same percentage as messaging services (10%).

The common denominator in the three cases is the intensive use of video, in short or long format. The demand for data from this content will continue to increase with the advancement of resolutions (from HD to 4K, and eventually 8K) and the expansion of live-streamed events. Audiovisual content is one of the main drivers of sustained mobile traffic growth, which, between 2016 and 2023, multiplied by 14. Only the annual growth in 2023 was greater than the total traffic volume in the region five years earlier, in 2018. By 2030, annual traffic is expected to grow by 22 exabytes (22 billion gigabytes) compared to the previous year, nearly double the annual growth recorded in 2023, which was 12 exabytes. This increase will put even more pressure on the capacity of mobile networks.

When we see 70% of mobile traffic concentrated in three companies, it can be thought of as just a reflection of user choice. But a considerable part of this traffic is unsolicited, such as the ads we see when opening our apps or videos in resolutions far higher than those we can enjoy on our devices.", points out Lucas Gallitto, Director for Latin America, GSMA.Today, platforms do not pay for the costs of this traffic they monetize, which has a negative impact on user experience, network capacity, and the environment. This highlights the need for fair share: a market mechanism through which large traffic generators contribute to the financing of networks, encouraging more efficient use of this resource that belongs to everyone.

The report 'Mobile Network Usage in Latin America' is available for download in Portuguese, Spanish and Englishhere.

Black Friday: how to increase sales and do well on the date using WhatsApp automation

According to the Black Friday 2024 Purchase Intentions Survey, conducted by Wake in partnership with OpinionBox, 66% of Brazilian consumers intend to buy some product this Black Friday. The report, which also addresses issues related to the customer experience, indicates that WhatsApp is one of the preferred means of interaction for customers (30.1%) with companies when it comes to brand communication and advertising.

In this regard, the Cielo-SBVC Ranking study, conducted by the Brazilian Society of Retail and Consumption (SBVC), showed that 46% of the largest retailers operating in Brazil use WhatsApp as a sales tool. At the same time, the 2024 Sales Panorama survey, conducted by RD Station, revealed that 70% of sales professionals state that social media is the most effective channel for customer contact.

From this scenario, Marcos Schütz, CEO of VendaComChat, Franchise network specialized in WhatsApp automation services, alerting that starting automated actions on the instant messaging app before Black Friday boosts sales and improves the customer experience. "Preliminary campaigns help not only to expand the contact base but also to create anticipation among consumers. By announcing offers and special discounts that will be available, brands arouse interest and excitement, encouraging customers to plan their purchases," explains.

According to the executive, WhatsApp automation tools offer various features designed to maximize customer service efficiency and, consequently, increase sales. This is because, through the feature, it is possible to serve a larger volume of consumers simultaneously, create a sense of urgency about the offers, answer frequently asked questions, and resolve common problems with a chatbot, as well as manage the message flow. "These automation capabilities ensure that customer service is not only fast but also of high quality, even when the volume of interactions is significantly higher," comments Marcos.

According to the CEO of VendaComChat, some features are crucial to stand out during Black Friday, check it out:


Data AnalysisWhatsApp automation tools enable the collection and analysis of customer data, allowing salespeople to better understand purchasing patterns and optimize marketing and sales strategies during Black Friday. "This type of tool allows creating and sending personalized offers based on the customer's purchase history. During peak demand periods, it can be used to offer exclusive discounts that are more likely to convert sales, based on consumers' previous preferences and purchasing behavior," explains Marcos.

Schedule alerts for flash sales and limited stock

Through automated messages, retailers can notify customers about upcoming offers, flash promotions, and the stock of the most desired products. According to Schütz, this keeps customers informed and attentive until the start of promotions, motivating immediate purchases.

Peak service management

The system can automate the scheduling of confirmations or reminders, reducing the administrative burden on staff to prevent delays or confusion. Furthermore, during periods of high traffic, managing received messages ensures that all are attended to promptly, maintaining the quality and speed of service.

Customizing acknowledgements and requesting feedback

Finally, the CEO emphasizes that providing efficient after-sales service is crucial to retain customers acquired during seasonal retail periods and therefore recommends, "send personalized thank-you messages after the purchase, using the customer's name and specifically mentioning the purchased product. This shows appreciation and recognition for them. Additionally, sending satisfaction surveys immediately after a service is completed can provide instant feedback that should be used for quick real-time adjustments," he concludes.

Behind only India, Brazil is the 2nd country with the greatest potential for entrepreneurs in the world

Recently released data from the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor states that more than 48% of Brazilians intend to start a new business within the next 3 years. Additionally, two-thirds of the population trust their entrepreneurial abilities, and more than half (51%) believe that fear of failure is not a factor preventing them from starting a new business. The entrepreneurship specialist Reginaldo Boeira went through 3 major falls before achieving success. He is the owner of KNN, one of the five largest language franchise networks in Brazil, as well as several other companies in different sectors.  

“If I could leave just one lesson for anyone thinking about starting a business, it would be: don’t be afraid to invest. Fear is a barrier that exists in all of our minds, but success only comes to those who decide to overcome it. I have faced great challenges, and at no time did I think about giving up. On the contrary, I learned the importance of resilience and persistence. Each failure taught me to ‘adjust the sails’, to understand the market and to seek new opportunities”, he states.

Before founding KNN Languages, Reginaldo Boeira had a journey marked by ups and downs. At 12 years old, he started entrepreneurship by selling sweets to help his humble family. With enthusiasm and dedication, he tried other businesses, such as a butcher shop and a semi-jewelry company, but without success. Reginaldo's third 'fall' happened at an IT company, and from that moment on, he understood that to be a successful entrepreneur, he needed to invest in what he truly loved and that money would be a consequence. In Reginaldo's case, he decided to invest in languages.

“I learned English when I was a child, through a battery-powered radio that I was given. And there, curious, I tried to learn with the help of a dictionary. This passion for the language led me to invest in the language teaching business. In addition, my passion for entrepreneurship also pushed me to teach other businesspeople how to make money and be successful, which is why the franchise model was successful. And working with what you love is, without a doubt, one of the most important pillars for lasting success. When we get involved in a project or business that we are truly passionate about, our dedication goes far beyond the physical effort or the hours invested. We are completely immersed, connected to the mission of what we do, and this gives us a unique strength,” explains Boeira.

“And, of course, during the journey, if things go wrong, the secret is to understand that failure is part of the process, and that, many times, it is a learning experience and a leap towards success. And Brazilians have this determination to ‘never give up’; it is even a motto that people carry with them and needs to be adopted in different areas of their lives, professional, personal, business and even health, as is my case, who recently beat cancer and continue to receive constant check-ups, valuing life and never giving up on having better health every day to continue with all the projects I have for myself and for my companies”, says Boeira.

In addition to KNN Idiomas, Reginaldo, with a strong entrepreneurial streak, has boosted his business by creating new companies, such as Phenom Idiomas, which has been operating in Brazil for 3 years and has more than 50 units open in the country, Boeira Construtora, focused on the construction industry in the Itajaí Valley region, in SC, and also companies in the marketing, foreign trade and tourism segments, such as Rancho Otto, in the Santa Catarina mountains, a destination highly sought after by tourists throughout the year.

Business scenario in Brazil

According to recent research, Brazil has already registered more than 60 million National Registry of Legal Entities (CNPJ) records throughout the country's history. Of this total, just over 21 million, 35%, are active. According to the survey, 94.5% of active companies are parent companies, followed by 5.5% of subsidiaries. Most active companies are parent companies, accounting for 94.50%, with only 5.50% being subsidiaries. It is worth noting that micro-enterprises (ME) make up more than 77% of the market, and most of them are individual companies (MEIs), which account for 75.62%.

Do you know what justified absences are?

It is always important to remember that the relationship between employee and employer should be based on balance and reciprocity. The worker, when starting their journey in a company, not only acquires rights but also assumes fundamental responsibilities for the proper functioning of this relationship. Such balance is regulated by the Consolidation of Labor Laws (CLT), which seeks to ensure justice and mutual protection in this relationship.

Article 473 of the CLT is an excellent example of the guarantees granted to the worker so that they can attend to personal and family situations without causing harm to their salary.This article covers several situations in which an employee is entitled to paid absence, reflecting the sensitivity of Brazilian legislation in protecting workers at the most important moments in their lives.

Among the main hypotheses, we have:

  1. Death of family members: The employee has the right to be absent for up to2 consecutive daysin the event of the death of a spouse, ascendants, descendants, siblings or financial dependents.
  2. Marriage: The worker can enjoy3 consecutive dayspaid leave due to marriage, ensuring a period of celebration and adaptation to the new married life.
  3. Birth of a child or shared custody: The article assures the father5 consecutive dayspaternity leave, ensuring their participation in the first moments of the child's life or in the new family dynamics in cases of shared custody.
  4. Voluntary blood donation: To encourage this act of solidarity, the worker has the right to1 day absenceper year duly proven.
  5. Voter registration: In order to comply with citizenship, the employee may be absent for up to2 days(consecutive or not) to register as a voter, in accordance with current electoral legislation.
  6. Fulfillment of military service requirements: The worker is also protected for the time necessary to fulfill the obligations imposed by military service.
  7. Entrance exams: The legislation guarantees the right to be absent during the days in which the employee is taking entrance exams for admission to a higher education institution.
  8. Appearance in court: In situations where the employee needs to appear in court, the time of absence is guaranteed by the CLT, so that the employee can exercise his rights without impacting his salary.
  9. International trade union meetings: A worker who represents a trade union entity in official meetings of international organizations of which Brazil is a member has the right to the necessary time of absence.
  10. Monitoring medical appointments during pregnancy: The employee may be absent to accompany his wife or partner for up to6 medical appointmentsduring pregnancy.
  11. Accompanying your child to medical appointments: The worker has the right to1 day per yearto accompany your child up to 6 years old to medical appointments, reinforcing child protection.

These rights reflect the legislator's commitment to creating conditions that allow workers to reconcile their professional lives with family and civic responsibilities, guaranteeing financial protection during these absences.

If, on the one hand, the CLT grants a series of rights to the employee, on the other hand, it also imposes importantobligationsThese responsibilities are essential for the employment relationship to occur in a harmonious and productive manner, for both the employee and the employer. By accepting a employment contract, the employee agrees to follow certain contractual and legal rules, such as:

  1. Punctuality and attendanceAdherence to established schedules is essential for work organization. Additionally, absences must be justified, preferably in advance, ensuring that the company's activity flow is not interrupted unnecessarily.
  2. Care for the company's assetsThe worker must take care of the material resources entrusted to them, using them responsibly and efficiently. Inappropriate use can result in damages that impact both the company and the work environment itself.
  3. Follow internal policies and proceduresEach company has its own conduct and safety standards. The compliance with these policies, such as the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and respecting the confidentiality of strategic information, is crucial for the integrity of the work environment.
  4. Meeting goals and deadlinesThe worker has the obligation to perform their activities with commitment and dedication, respecting established deadlines and goals. Non-compliance with these parameters can harm not only the company but also the employee's professional development.
  5. Respect for hierarchy and good coexistenceMaintaining respect for hierarchical authorities, as well as fostering a healthy and collaborative work environment, is the responsibility of all workers. Harmonious coexistence contributes to collective efficiency and the company's success.
  6. Compliance with contractual and legal standardsThe employment contract and labor legislation establish limits and obligations that must be observed. Disregarding these rules may result in disciplinary sanctions, such as warnings, suspensions, and even dismissal for just cause.

Fulfilling these responsibilities strengthens the bond of trust between employer and employee, promotes a safer and more productive work environment and, consequently, increases the chances of professional growth within the company.

The knowledge ofrightsandresponsibilitiesThe work environment is a fundamental pillar for professional success. Brazilian labor legislation seeks to protect the worker without failing to ensure the maintenance of a fair relationship with the employer. By exercising their rights and fulfilling their obligations, the employee contributes to the creation of a balanced and harmonious work environment, essential for their growth and the company's development.

Shark Tank success story is the subject of a book on entrepreneurship

Startup Dr. Mep, created by Lara Judith Barbosa Martins and presented as a successful business on Shark Tank 2024, was addressed among the main themes of the bookDreamsActions: They Transform the World. Next to her mother, Alaíde Barbosa Martins, and her sister, Laila Martins, the program participant described the biggest hurdles faced by entrepreneurs in Brazil, in the best-selling book that reached 3,000 reserved copies even during the pre-sale phase.

The publication was officially launched during the International Book Fair, which recently took place in São Paulo (SP). Written by the three women who carry entrepreneurship as a family legacy, it has 160 pages and is divided into seven chapters.

Focused on veterinary telemedicine services, Dr. Mep was introduced by Lara Judith on the program and received an investment proposal from presenter Monique Evelle, who became a partner in the business.

“Taking part in Shark Tank served to confirm that we are on the right track. Our startup became a success story on the program, with significant growth since then. Much more than that, Dr. Mep is a great example of how perseverance, hard work and knowledge are the main keys to achieving success in entrepreneurship in countries like ours,” says Lara Judith.

The author grew up in an environment that promoted entrepreneurship, alongside her sister and mother, who has been running successful businesses since she was 15 years old. In addition to Dr. Mep, the family owns companies in the fields of education and technological innovation.

“All this knowledge was translated into this book, which also talks about career transition and challenges related to innovation and the creation of new businesses. With an unfavorable scenario for new entrepreneurs in Brazil, it is necessary to share successful ideas with those who are looking to start a business for the first time,” says Alaíde Barbosa.

Copies of the best-seller published by Editora Anjo will be sold on the Amazon platform and at the main bookstores in Brazil for R$ 39. In October, there will be new launch events at Livraria da Vila, at Shopping JK, as well as in other cities such as Salvador (BA) and Aracaju (SE).

Technical Sheet 

Title:DreamsActions Transform the World

Authors:Alaide Barbosa Martins, Laila Martins and Lara Judith Martins

Number of pages: 160 

Angel Publishing

5 tips for choosing the best payment methods and boosting sales

With the accelerated digitization of businesses and the expansion of payment options in the market, choosing the most suitable methods has become a strategic decision for companies. This process directly impacts the customer experience, transaction security, and operational efficiency.

To illustrate, theZoop Trends Report 2024It reveals that, this year, 53.5% of payments in Brazil were made digitally, a significant jump compared to the 39.5% recorded in 2023. This advance reflects the growing adoption of electronic payment methods by Brazilian consumers.

With this scenario in mind, Alex Tabor, CEO of Tuna Pagamentos — a platform specialized in payment orchestration — shares five essential tips to help entrepreneurs choose the payment methods that best suit their needs.

  1. Know your audience profile

For the CEO, the first step in selecting payment methods is to understandwho are your customers and what are their preferencesA younger audience, for example, tends to use digital wallets and PIX more frequently, while a more traditional clientele may prefer credit card payments or bank slips.Adapting to consumer preferences can increase satisfaction and sales.”, he says.

  1. Evaluate transaction security

"Security should be a priority when choosing payment methods. Opt for solutions that offer protection against fraud and comply with regulatory standards, such as PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard)," says Alex. Furthermore, it is important to consider methods that enable two-factor authentication, data encryption, facial recognition, and other security features — the fintech Tuna, in fact, offers this type of infrastructure.

  1. Consider the costs involved

Each payment method has its own costs, which may include transaction fees and chargeback charges. According to the executive, "it is important to conduct a detailed analysis of these costs in relation to the sales volume and the company's average ticket. Choosing payment methods that balance costs and benefits can help maintain the financial health of the business."

  1. Integration with existing systems

The compatibility of payment methods with the management systems already used by the company is crucial. Therefore, the importance of hiring payment facilitators that offer a wide variety of operators. "Check if the chosen solutions easily integrate with your company's ERP, CRM, or other software. Efficient integration can automate processes, reduce errors, and improve financial and accounting control," completes Alex.

  1. Flexibility and scalability

"As a company grows, payment needs also evolve," recalls the CEO of Tuna. "Therefore, it is important to choose payment methods that offer flexibility and can adapt to the growth of the business," he/she/they concludes. Scalable solutions that allow adding new methods or increasing transaction volume without complications are ideal for growing companies.

Personalizing the User Experience and How AI is Redefining Digital Interactions

In recent years, personalization has become the pillar of digital interactions, transforming the way companies and consumers connect. At the center of this revolution is Artificial Intelligence (AI), a technology that not only facilitates but also enhances these interactions, continuously adapting to the needs and desires of users. The promise of a personalized experience, once a differentiator, is now a fundamental expectation for consumers worldwide.

In a not-so-distant past, personalization in the digital environment was limited to product and service recommendations based on purchase or browsing histories. Today, thanks to the power of AI, this personalization goes far beyond, touching almost every aspect of the user experience. AI allows companies to analyze large volumes of data in real time, identifying patterns and preferences accurately and almost instantly.

Modern customization extends beyond simple product suggestions. It includes content curation, such as videos and articles, fine-tuning marketing campaigns, and even customizing the design and user interface based on your preferences and behaviors. This results in a smoother user experience, where each interaction seems tailored exclusively for the individual.

What makes AI so powerful in personalization is its ability to learn and adapt. Through techniques such as machine learning and natural language processing, AI can interpret past behaviors and predict future actions with surprising accuracy. This allows companies not only to respond to user needs but also to anticipate those needs, creating a continuous cycle of improvement and adaptation.

For example, recommendation systems on music and video streaming platforms like Spotify and Netflix use AI to suggest new content that the user is likely to enjoy, based on their consumption history and trends among users with similar profiles. This ability to predict what the user wants even before they know is one of the most powerful aspects of personalization through AI.

However, with great power comes great responsibility. Excessive personalization can, paradoxically, lead to saturation and even distrust. When AI begins to anticipate all of the user's needs, leaving no room for spontaneity, the experience can become too predictive, taking away the pleasure of discovery. Additionally, there are significant privacy concerns. The collection and analysis of large amounts of personal data for personalization purposes raise concerns about how this information is stored and used.

Often, users may feel uncomfortable with the amount of data companies have about them, and transparency is essential to mitigate these concerns. The companies that stand out in personalization are those that can balance AI efficiency with data protection and user privacy, offering transparency in their data collection practices and allowing users to have control over how their information is used.

The issue of ethics in AI is directly related to personalization. As companies use AI to personalize experiences, the need for clear and transparent guidelines on how these technologies should be implemented arises. This includes ensuring that algorithms are fair, non-discriminatory, and respect user privacy.

A central challenge is ensuring that personalization does not perpetuate preexisting biases. For example, if an algorithm is trained on data that reflects social inequalities, there is a risk that it will continue to reinforce these inequalities. Responsible companies are aware of this risk and are implementing processes to audit and correct these biases, ensuring that personalization is a force for good.

Despite all the advances, personalization through AI still faces significant challenges. The complexity of human behavior and the diversity of preferences make personalization an ever-evolving task. Companies need to invest in technologies that are not only accurate but also flexible enough to adapt to changing behavior patterns and new user expectations.

Furthermore, as more companies adopt personalization, there is a risk of saturation. When everything is customized, differentiation becomes more difficult, and consumer expectations increase. Companies need to find ways to offer value personalization that goes beyond the basics and truly resonates with individual user needs.

Various companies around the world are already reaping the benefits of AI personalization. Amazon, for example, uses AI to personalize each customer's shopping experience, from product recommendations to related content suggestions. Another example is Google, whose AI personalizes search results and ads based on the user's history and preferences.

The use of AI for personalization represents one of the most exciting frontiers of modern technology. By offering unique and relevant experiences to each user, AI not only increases customer satisfaction but also drives business growth. However, this power comes with the responsibility to protect user privacy and ensure that technologies are implemented fairly and ethically.

The future of personalization will be defined by those who can balance innovation with responsibility. Companies that are able to offer personalized experiences that respect privacy and ethics will be in a privileged position to lead this new era of digital interactions. Customization is, without a doubt, the way forward, but only if it is done with the user at the center of all decisions.

As AI continues to evolve, opportunities to personalize the user experience expand exponentially. Those who embrace these changes and use them to create real value for their customers will be at the forefront of digital innovation, shaping the future of how we interact with the world around us.

Expert explains how startups can avoid legal problems from the ideation stage

Startups, by their nature, operate in a dynamic environment where innovation and rapid growth bring both opportunities and challenges. As the business develops, legal issues may arise, but investing in specialized legal solutions from the ideation phase helps mitigate risks and promote a safer trajectory.

Data from the Brazilian Association of Lawtechs and Legaltechs (AB2L) show that startups investing in customized legal solutions are up to 70% more likely to grow sustainably. In 2023, for example, about 35% of startups that failed in Brazil faced legal issues that were not properly addressed from the beginning.

SecondNicolas Fabeni, CEO yesStartLawLawtech from Curitiba that aims to simplify entrepreneurs' lives by organizing legal information of growing CNPJs through technology. One of the biggest pitfalls for startups is underestimating the need for robust legal advisory. "The lack of preventive measures can lead to corporate disputes, labor issues, intellectual property problems, and even premature bankruptcies," he explains.

Strategic tools help mitigate risks

New technologies and agile methodologies are essential for the operation of startups, and the use of legal intelligence tools can be decisive in risk mitigation. Tools using artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning not only prevent potential legal issues but also assist entrepreneurs and strategic collaborators in decision-making. A StartLaw, for example, offers a combination of law and technology to ensure governance with a legal platform. Additionally, it hasartificial intelligenceto assist with legal demands, ensuring that startups maintain legal compliance at each stage of their evolution: ideation, traction and scale.

Acting as a LaaS (Legal as a Service), the company's AI analyzes case data and judicial documents to predict possible outcomes, an example of how technology can transform legal management for startups, having already helped several companies avoid costly litigation with strategic information, increasing their chances of long-term success. "Our goal is to protect startups from future litigation and legal issues, allowing them to focus on what truly matters: innovation," emphasizes Fabeni.

Legal certainty promotes sustainable growth

In addition to mitigating immediate risks, legal prevention contributes to the sustainable growth of emerging companies. A 2022 study by Zion Market Research showed that the adoption of technological solutions in the legal field, such as artificial intelligence, can reduce litigation-related costs by up to 30% and optimize the resolution time for recurring issues, such as contractual breaches, intellectual property violations, and regulatory non-compliance, which can be costly throughout the business journey.

Specialized legal support can be a key differentiator for the sustainable growth of the business, whether it is a startup or a traditional company, protecting it from legal risks to expand in a competitive market. "Our role is to ensure that the entrepreneur is always one step ahead, with a legal structure that supports the company's growth in a safe and efficient manner," concludes Fabeni.

L1 visa makes it easier for executives to relocate to the United States

The L1 visa has stood out as one of the best options for companies looking to transfer their key executives to the United States. Aimed at managers, administrators, and employees with specialized knowledge, this visa offers the opportunity to boost the expansion of corporate operations in the American market.

Types of L1 Visa

The L1 is divided into two categories: L1A, intended for managers and executives, and L1B, aimed at employees with specialized knowledge. Both types require the applicant to have worked for the company abroad for at least 12 months in the last three years. The continuous employment relationship is an essential requirement to ensure that the transfer process is legitimate and accepted by the American authorities.

In the case of the L1A, the applicant must have held a leadership or managerial position, being responsible for strategic decisions. The L1B, in turn, allows the transfer of professionals whose specialized knowledge is essential for the company's operation in the USA, even if they do not hold managerial positions.

Executive transfer and inter-company connection

According toDaniel Toledo, a lawyer working in the area of International Law, founder ofToledo and Associatesan international law firm with offices in Brazil and the United States, a fundamental aspect of the L1 visa is the relationship between the American company and its parent or affiliate abroad. "The company in the USA must be a subsidiary, affiliate, or branch of the foreign organization. This means that both companies must have a clear connection, and the overseas company must continue operating for the L1 visa to be valid," it reveals.

Another important point is that the company in the USA must be properly structured and operational. "It's not enough to have a business plan. the organization needs to be prepared for the executive or specialized employee to assume their duties immediately. This rule aims to prevent shell companies or those without real activity from improperly using the L1 visa," he points out.

Operational capacity and visa validity

According to Toledo, the company in the United States needs to be fully operational, with real conditions to sustain the planned growth and absorb the transferred executive. "Previously, it was common for companies to only present future plans to obtain the L1, but the requirements have become more stringent. Now, it is necessary to demonstrate that the company has the capacity to maintain its operations immediately," he states.

The L1 visa has an initial validity of up to one year for new companies and up to three years for already established companies. This validity can be extended, totaling up to seven years for L1A and five years for L1B.

Benefits for spouses and children

The lawyer points out that this visa category allows the spouse and children under 21 years old to accompany the holder through the L2 visa. "The spouse has the right to work legally in the United States, and children can attend educational institutions in the country. These benefits make the L1 an attractive option for executives planning to move to the U.S. with their family," he states.

Toledo believes that the L1 visa is a valuable tool for companies seeking to expand their operations in the United States, transferring executives and key employees to ensure the success of this endeavor. "However, it is essential that the process be conducted carefully, paying attention to all legal and structural requirements demanded by the American authorities," he concludes.

Startup Accelerator Launches Inaugural “Brazil Advisor Lab” Program

Founder Institute, the world’s largest pre-seed startup accelerator, announces the launch of FI Brasil Advisor Lab, a hybrid online and in-person program designed to equip participants with the skills, knowledge and international network to effectively serve as advisors and board members for startups.

Program with Silicon Valley methodology

With sessions taking place weekly from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM Brasília time from October 10 to December 12, 2024, the FI Brasil Advisor Lab offers a world-class innovation curriculum, weekly assignments, and reading materials, all in an intimate cohort environment of innovation leaders.

Who is the Program for?

The program is designed for business professionals and corporate executives and entrepreneurs who want to expand their expertise as startup advisors, investors and innovation leaders.

What will participants get?

  • Increased knowledge as an innovation leader and startup advisor;
  • Expanding the network of contacts with other high-caliber innovation leaders in Brazil;
  • Guidance and mentorship opportunities through the Founder Institute's global network;
  • Access to private investor networking events in 2025 and materials from future bootcamp classes.

Investment and Program Structure

Costing $900, the program is conducted in Portuguese, and in-person networking sessions take place at the beginning and end of the program.

Program Calendar

Sessions include topics such as Advisory Practices, Vision and Mission, Client Development, Revenue and Business Models, Legal and Equity Issues, Go-to-Market and Scalability, Product Development, Co-Founders and Board, and Funding.

The final session on December 12 will be an opportunity for participants to conclude the program with a hybrid and in-person feedback and networking session.

Mark of Biase, founder of the Founder Institute in Brazil, highlights the transformative potential of the program: "The launch of the Brazil Advisor Lab marks an important step for the development of mentors in the startup ecosystem in Brazil. We are seeing a growing national interest in skill enhancement in the market, especially regarding strategic consulting and the role of advisors. This inaugural program aims to meet this demand by connecting professionals with startups and offering comprehensive training that covers best practices as well as practical feedback with real companies." Reflect

How to Participate

Places are limited and interested parties can register directly on the program's official website, through this link:https://fi.co/bootcamp/bradvisorlab

[elfsight_cookie_consent id="1"]