The BRICS Women’s Startups Contest 2025 has been launched by the Brazilian Micro and Small Business Support Service (Serviço Brasileiro de Apoio às Micro e Pequenas Empresas/SEBRAE), the National Confederation of Industry (Confederação Nacional da Indústria/CNI), the BRICS Women’s Business Alliance (Aliança de Mulheres de Negócios do BRICS/BRICS WBA), and the BRICS Presidency of Brazil. The program aims to highlight women-owned companies that provide creative and useful answers to the problems that their markets and communities confront.
The award’s inauguration is in line with the goals established by Brazil’s 2025 BRICS Presidency, which centre on supporting projects that have a long-lasting social and economic impact, growing strategic relationships, and integrating the economy. Up to 2,000 applications are anticipated this year, indicating the initiative’s scope and importance in promoting female entrepreneurship.
Award Categories: Applicants may compete in six main categories, reflecting strategic areas for sustainable development and economic inclusion within BRICS countries:
- Health and Well-Being
- Agriculture and Food Security
- Education and Skills Development
- Energy, Infrastructure, and Mobility
- Trade, Services, and Digital Transformation
- Sustainable Development and Climate Solutions
The Brazilian Micro and Small Business Support Service (SEBRAE) is organizing the BRICS Women’s Startups Contest 2025 to support global opportunities for female entrepreneurs. This initiative, under Brazil’s leadership, aims to connect women-led startups with international innovation ecosystems, accelerators, and investors. By enhancing market access and encouraging corporate growth, the contest seeks to empower women entrepreneurs and drive their participation in global business networks.
Prizes and Advantages
The BRICS Women’s Startups Contest will culminate in a Technical Mission in Rio de Janeiro from July 1–8, 2025, where 18 finalists will enjoy an all-expenses-paid experience, including flights, accommodation, and a stipend. This mission offers a unique opportunity for these entrepreneurs to explore key innovation hubs, present their innovative ideas to investors and industry leaders, and participate in the prestigious BRICS Business Forum Award Ceremony. The contest underscores Brazil’s dedication to strengthening female entrepreneurship and facilitating access to global markets for startups and small businesses. Recent BRICS discussions have highlighted the critical role of technological collaboration and inclusive productivity in driving sustainable growth, with initiatives like this contest exemplifying the collective efforts of BRICS nations to empower women entrepreneurs with access to networks and opportunities that fuel innovation and global competitiveness.
Applications are open until May 4, 2025, and must be made through the official website of Brasil’s BRICS Presidency.
