Inaitec is preparing for yet another international mission that promises to broaden the horizons of Santa Catarina startups. From November 2 to 10, 2025, technology-based companies will have the opportunity to participate in a strategic journey in Barcelona, one of Europe's most advanced innovation ecosystems. With FAPESC's support, the international mission is expected to open registrations shortly.
Why Barcelona?
Barcelona was one of the first European cities to integrate technology parks into its urban fabric and has established itself as a benchmark in innovation, connectivity, and sustainable urban development. The maturity of the local ecosystem, the presence of major research centers, and the activity of investment funds make the city a strategic entry point for Brazilian startups interested in internationalization.
For Santa Catarina companies, this represents the chance to explore new markets, access commercial partnerships, validate solutions in a competitive environment, and attract investment.
Planned activities and program highlights
The mission will feature an intense agenda of strategic connections. Among the highlights:
- SmartCity Expo World Congress: Participating startups will be able to map global trends in smart cities and foster business with companies, governments, investors, and accelerators from around the world.
- Technical visits to innovation hubs: Visits are planned to DFactory, a reference in Industry 4.0, and to the 22@Barcelona district, one of Europe's leading urban innovation hubs.
- Business rounds and networking: At venues such as Barcelona Activa, companies will be able to present their solutions and connect with key players in the local ecosystem.
Strategic connection between ecosystems
In addition to opening doors in the European market, the mission aims to position the Santa Catarina ecosystem globally. According to Inaitec's executive director, Diego Chierighini, the goal is to create real bridges between Santa Catarina and Europe's leading innovation hubs:
"We want to return with closed deals, connections with accelerators and research centers, and above all, with applicable learnings that further strengthen our local ecosystem."
Inaitec also plans to strengthen institutional ties with Catalan actors, focusing on the development of exchange programs, softlanding and open innovation for Brazilian startups.
Sectors with high potential
The areas with the greatest prominence in the mission will be:
- Smart Cities
- Digital health
- Industry 4.0
- Sustainability
Sectors in which Santa Catarina already has relevant competencies and that find great synergy with what is being developed in Barcelona.
Opportunity to internationalize and scale
Inaitec's expectation is that the mission will go beyond short-term business generation. The goal is to provide an immersive experience capable of driving the scalability and maturity of the participating ventures.
The selected companies will have access to a personalized program and connections that can transform their global positioning. And at the same time, contribute to the Pedra Branca Technology Park continuing to consolidate its role as a national reference in innovation.
Want to participate?
Registrations are open and spots are limited. To register, click here. To participate in the public call that will select the startups to receive funding for flights and daily allowances for the business mission, access the registration link available in the public call. To receive information first-hand, follow Inaitec's official channels or contact the team via the website.
