Brazil PIPE-FAPESP Startup Funding 2026
Program Overview
PIPE (Innovative Research in Small Business) is São Paulo Research Foundation's (FAPESP) flagship startup support program. Over 20 years, PIPE has become Brazil's leading science and technology-based startup program, combining technological innovation with merit-based opportunity. The program operates through partnership with SEBRAE-SP.
Program Track Record
Grants Provided: 1,921 grants over 20 years
Scholarships: 2,959 associated research scholarships
Total Funding: Approximately R$400 million distributed
Companies Supported: ~1,200 micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises
Deep Tech Impact: 28% of Brazil's 875 mapped deep-tech companies received PIPE funding
Geographic Focus: São Paulo State (accounts for 50%+ of Brazil's S&T startups)
Available Funding Lines (2026)
PIPE Sebrae:
- Funding: Up to R$1,800,000 over 24 months
- Purpose: Technology and market development
- Target: Companies needing to develop new technology after completing technical-scientific feasibility analysis
- Stage: Later-stage development and commercialization
PIPE Startup-Empresa:
- Funding: Up to R$500,000 over 12 months
- Purpose: Technology validation within partner company environment
- Target: Companies with already-developed technology seeking market validation
- Stage: Technology transfer and commercial proof-of-concept
Eligibility Requirements
Micro, small, or medium-sized enterprise registered in São Paulo State
Science and technology-based business model
Innovative research project with clear technological merit
Qualified research team with technical expertise
Viable commercialization plan
Partner company identified (for PIPE Startup-Empresa)
Compliance with FAPESP research ethics and integrity standards
Application Process
- Register company and principal investigator on FAPESP platform
- Select appropriate PIPE funding line (Sebrae or Startup-Empresa)
- Prepare comprehensive research proposal including:
- Technical description and innovation merit
- Scientific methodology and work plan
- Budget justification
- Team qualifications
- Commercialization strategy
- Submit proposal through FAPESP online system
- Undergo peer review evaluation for scientific merit
- Present to evaluation committee if shortlisted
- Receive approval decision (typically 4-6 months)
- Execute grant agreement
- Submit periodic progress reports and financial documentation
SEBRAE-SP Partnership Benefits
Technical cooperation for startup selection and monitoring
Capacity building programs for funded companies
Business mentorship and market development support
Networking with investor and corporate communities
Access to SEBRAE's entrepreneurship resources
Integration with broader São Paulo innovation ecosystem
Ecosystem Position
PIPE-FAPESP works alongside other major Brazilian innovation supporters including FINEP, BNDES, SEBRAE, and EMBRAPII. The program specifically focuses on science-based, deep-tech startups in São Paulo State, which represents Brazil's largest concentration of technology companies and research institutions.
Key Advantages
Largest state-level startup support program in Brazil
Non-repayable grants (no equity dilution)
Focus on deep-tech and science-based innovation
Strong track record with 1,200+ companies funded
Access to São Paulo's robust research and business ecosystem
SEBRAE partnership provides business development support
Multiple funding stages from validation to commercialization
Scholarship support for research personnel
Contact Information
FAPESP - São Paulo Research Foundation Website: https://bv.fapesp.br/en/266/innovative-research-in-small-business-pipe/ PIPE Portal: https://fapesp.br/pipe
SEBRAE-SP Website: https://sebraeforstartups.sebraesp.com.br/fapesp/
For inquiries: Contact through FAPESP online platform
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