Golden week for Brazilian technology and innovation.
Brazil is experiencing intense times on the global technology and sustainability stage. While more than 370 national startups are presenting innovative solutions in Lisbon, the country is consolidating its digital leadership at COP30 with the launch of public infrastructure projects with environmental impact. These two movements reinforce Brazil's position as a relevant player in digital transformation and the green economy.
370 Brazilian startups gain space at Web Summit Lisbon.
The Brazilian delegation arrived at Web Summit Lisbon 2025 — one of the largest global technology and innovation events — in full force. Coordinated by the Brazilian Trade and Investment Promotion Agency (ApexBrasil) in partnership with Sebrae, the delegation brings together innovative companies from all regions of the country with the potential for international expansion.
The event, which takes place from November 10th to 13th in the Portuguese capital, expects to receive more than 70,000 participants. The Brazilian Pavilion was officially inaugurated on Tuesday (November 11th) by the presidents of ApexBrasil, Jorge Viana, and Sebrae, Décio Lima, with the presence of diplomatic authorities and representatives of federal agencies such as Embratur and Serpro.
Why it matters: The massive presence of Brazilian startups on one of the main global technology stages signals the maturity of the national innovation ecosystem and opens doors for partnerships, investments, and international validation of solutions developed in the country.
CAR becomes Brazil's first Digital Public Asset
At COP30, the Ministry of Management and Innovation in Public Services (MGI) launched the Rural Environmental Registry (CAR) as a Digital Public Good, marking an unprecedented international recognition. The CAR was included in the catalog of the Digital Public Goods Alliance (DPGA), a global network of open digital solutions with the potential to generate impact on the Sustainable Development Goals.
The initiative reinforces Brazil's commitment to uniting innovation, sustainability, and social justice. According to Minister Esther Dweck, technology must go hand in hand with sustainability and social commitment, transforming climate action strategies into fair and effective tools.
The difference: CAR combines transparency, traceability, and sustainability in an open public platform, allowing other countries to reuse the already tested and approved technology — a model of digital cooperation that transcends borders.
Challenges in adaptation: tax reform in focus
While innovation advances, recent research points to a significant bottleneck: companies have not yet adequately adapted to the tax reform. The first phase of the transition to the new system comes into effect in January 2026, creating pressure for organizations to accelerate their compliance processes.
Practical implication: Startups and small businesses aiming to scale internationally need to resolve domestic tax issues before expanding—a challenge that could impact the growth rate of some of the delegation present in Lisbon.
Context: why this week is important
This week’s events reflect three simultaneous movements: (1) consolidation of the Brazilian startup ecosystem on a global scale; (2) Brazil’s leadership in public digital infrastructures for sustainability; (3) internal regulatory pressure requiring rapid adaptation from companies. Together, they form a picture of opportunities and challenges that define the next phase of the Brazilian digital economy.
Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash
English