SEBRAE, Brazil's leading agency supporting Micro and Small Companies, joined hands with FundingBox to explore advanced support mechanisms for digital transformation in Europe. This collaboration, initiated during the MERCOPAR event in Brazil, led to a significant visit to FundingBox in Santiago de Compostela, Spain, on April 4, 2024, hosted by Mayte Carracedo, Chief Ecosystems and Services Officer at FundingBox.

Engaging activities for digital advancement

The visit was packed with enriching activities aimed at enhancing understanding and fostering growth in digital initiatives:

• SEBRAE explored how this innovative system could effectively fuel digital initiatives from their foundational stages.

• A crucial focus was on learning how to facilitate access to funds specifically for Micro and Small Companies' digitization projects, which significantly propelled digital projects forward.
• Another key takeaway was the importance of building strong partnerships within ecosystems to foster growth and innovation, a point highlighted during discussions.
• The significance of Digital Innovation Hubs in business ecosystems was also emphasised, showcasing their role in pushing digital transformation and collaboration.

In-depth meetings with IGAPE and GAIN

The visit also included meetings with top entities in Galicia, including IGAPE and GAIN, exploring the forefront of digitalization. Connecting with DataLife, a leading Digital Innovation Hub, further enriched the experience, harnessing the power of data-driven innovation.

The meeting with IGAPE commenced with a warm welcome and opening remarks, followed by a brief introduction of attendees. The agenda included an overview of IGAPE, covering its background, history, core services, and programs. SEBRAE also presented its background, history, core services and products, and highlighted its digital transformation journey in Brazil, discussing main activities and challenges faced. Topics such as consolidation of SMEs, re-activating business activities (Re-Acciona), machinery for Industry 4.0 (Maquinaria 4.0), digitalization in Industry 4.0, and SMEs' internationalisation were thoroughly explored.

Similarly, the introductory meeting with GAIN included an introduction, overview of GAIN, overview of SEBRAE, and discussions on digital transformation in Brazil. The agenda also delved into specific topics like antennas for businesses, SMEs' internationalisation, and a general overview of GAIN's work in internationalisation.

Challenges and solutions for digitalization and Brazilian industry

One of the primary challenges discussed during the visitation was how to increase the level of digitalization among Brazilian companies, which currently stands at around 3%. They explored strategies to bridge the gap between innovative companies and those lagging behind in terms of innovation, ensuring that all sectors of the economy can benefit from technological advancements.

Discussions also focused on preparing companies for the proper uptake of technology, ensuring effective implementation and utilisation. This included considerations on how to tailor technological solutions to meet the specific needs of Brazilian businesses, taking into account factors such as industry diversity and regional variations.

Another challenge addressed was how to increase productivity in a market with a significant number of internal consumers. SEBRAE and FundingBox explored strategies to leverage digital tools and innovations to streamline processes, enhance efficiency, and drive overall productivity growth.

Moreover, the diversity across Brazilian states presents challenges as needs among companies vary significantly, posing limitations for structural policies. SEBRAE and FundingBox explored how to tailor support mechanisms and initiatives to address these diverse needs effectively, ensuring that all companies, regardless of their location or sector, can thrive in the digital age.

Post-visit reflections showcased the immense value gained from the expedition. SEBRAE's European expedition unlocked valuable digital innovation insights, empowering Micro and Small Companies with newfound knowledge and strategies. The strengthened bonds with entities like IGAPE, GAIN, and DataLife DIH are pivotal in driving forward SEBRAE's mission of supporting SMEs on their digital transformation journey.

As SEBRAE reflects on this enriching experience in Europe, excitement brews for the possibilities that lie ahead. Stay tuned as SEBRAE continues to champion digital innovation, propelling SMEs into unprecedented success.

_____________________________________________________________________________________

FundingBox Group is thrilled to announce the launch of its Supportive Partners Programme, aimed at sharing opportunities to bring technology, networking, and funding to local communities. This initiative invites all Business Support Organisations (BSOs) to partner with FundingBox and tap into various opportunities available through EC-funded projects and similar initiatives.

The Supportive Partners Programme offers a platform for collaboration, allowing organisations supporting SMEs to access resources and support that can drive innovation and growth within their communities. By joining forces with FundingBox, BSOs can use expertise, funding channels, and networking opportunities to accelerate digital transformation and create a more inclusive and vibrant ecosystem.

For more information and to explore partnership opportunities, please reach out to Maria Roca, Senior Project Manager at FundingBox and the organisation’s Digital Innovation Hubs Lead, at maria.roca@fundingbox.com.

We encourage all Business Support Organisations and Digital Innovation Hubs to use this opportunity and become part of the Supportive Partners Programme. Together, we can discover the full potential of digital innovation and pave the way for a brighter future for local communities. Join us in shaping tomorrow's technology landscape and making a meaningful impact on society.