Brazilian Startups Target European Expansion at Web Summit Lisbon
Brazil's delegation of 300 startups seeks global growth through strategic internationalization efforts.
1Strategic Delegation Arrival
Approximately 300 Brazilian startups arrived in Lisbon for the Web Summit, aiming to penetrate the European market. This delegation, supported by ApexBrasil and Sebrae, represents a significant effort to diversify Brazil's export portfolio. Entrepreneurs spent the preceding Sunday refining their pitches and business strategies under the guidance of professional consultants.
2Exporting Small Business
Currently, less than 1% of Brazilian micro and small enterprises engage in exports. These businesses represent 30% of the national GDP, highlighting a massive untapped potential for international growth. Government officials emphasize that shifting from a domestic focus to global operations is essential for the long-term survival of these small firms.
3Financial Performance Metrics
In 2025, the delegation secured US$ 2.6 million in immediate business deals, tripling the 2024 figure of US$ 850,000. Beyond immediate contracts, participants identified US$ 16 million in potential opportunities for the coming year. Historically, Brazilian companies have raised approximately US$ 700 million through connections initiated at previous editions of the conference.
4Mentorship and Preparation
Preparation for the event began in September, focusing on English-language presentations, investment acquisition, and regulatory navigation. Mentors like Roberto Machado provided intensive training to help founders refine their value propositions. This structured approach aims to prevent startups from diluting their focus while attempting to engage with diverse international market stakeholders.
5Diversity in Innovation
The current delegation features significant diversity, with 45% of startups led by women and 15% originating from Brazil's North and Northeast regions. Notable participants include Wood Lab, which integrates artificial intelligence with Amazonian biodiversity science, and BM Tecnologia, which focuses on solar energy and agribusiness solutions for the global market.
6European Market Strategy
ApexBrasil data shows that Brazilian exports to the European Union reached US$ 44.2 billion between January and September, a 20% increase over the previous year. This growth is partly attributed to the provisional application of the EU-Mercosur agreement, positioning Portugal as a strategic gateway for broader European market entry.
7Institutional Support Framework
The Brazilian government is actively promoting internationalization to reduce reliance on the United States market. Officials from ApexBrasil and the Ministry of Entrepreneurship emphasize that success requires more than innovation; it demands a consistent market entry strategy. Agencies provide support ranging from travel subsidies to specialized workshops on regulatory compliance.
8Future Outlook and Impact
The focus remains on building lasting roots rather than simple export transactions. By targeting sectors like aerospace, energy transition, and critical minerals, Brazil aims to integrate into European supply chains. The ongoing presence at the MEO Arena serves as a critical platform for fostering these long-term, high-value economic partnerships.
Original article: Público — Brazilian Startups Target European Expansion at Web Summit Lisbon