Starting a business entails embarking on a journey into the unknown. Regardless of exhaustive planning, desire and goodwill, uncertainty looms. In this, entrepreneurship requires determination and courage, attributes that are often used to describe the men and women who have decided to forge their own path. Brazil is one of such places where these attributes abound.
According to data from Agência Brasil, three out of ten young people aged 18 to 27 dreamed of starting their own business in 2024. Furthermore, the higher a person’s level of education is, the greater their desire to venture into entrepreneurship.
But starting a business is everything but easy. Entrepreneurs face obstacle-filled journeys and challenges, resulting in some endeavors’ failure. Regardless, there are some which have not only succeeded, but grown to become legendary figures who inspire future entrepreneurs.
In this article, we will meet those 15 Brazilian visionaries who have made entrepreneurship their flag, challenged uncertainty, and forged their own path while fostering a new generation of game-changers.
Leonardo Vieira- Tractian
Leonardo Vieira is a prominent Brazilian entrepreneur and co-founder of Tractian, a leading company in predictive maintenance solutions for the industry. He holds a degree in Business Administration from the University of Akron in Ohio, USA, and has been deeply involved in the industrial sector from an early age, influenced by his father, an industrial maintenance technician.
Before founding Tractian in 2019, Vieira worked for an international hydraulic pump manufacturer, which helped him understand the needs and challenges factories face in maintaining their machinery.
What does Tractian do?
Tractian specializes in developing hardware and software solutions that enable real-time monitoring of industrial equipment. In using artificial intelligence and machine learning, Tractian’s technology analyzes vibration and temperature data to predict machinery failures, allowing companies to optimize their maintenance programs and reduce operational costs.
Since its founding, Tractian has experienced significant growth, currently monitoring over 80,000 machines and serving more than 500 industrial clients in countries such as Mexico, the United States, and Brazil. Its clients include renowned companies like La Costeña, Bimbo, Heineken, Skyworks, Bosch, Mitsui, Tenaris, and Amsted Rail.
The company has achieved an estimated value of $205 million following its latest funding round, in which the investment fund General Catalyst participated.
Maria Oliveira Tamellini- GamerSafer
This award-winning entrepreneur, educator, and community builder is originally from Brazil, but currently resides in California. With over a decade of experience in strategy and corporate social responsibility management, sustainability, and nonprofit initiatives, Oliveira has impacted more than 100 nonprofit organizations, and 70 small businesses worldwide.
Maria Oliveira Tamellini is an alumna of UC Berkeley Skydeck, an AWS Impact fellow, and was recognized by Headstream Innovation for her work in creating safer digital spaces for young people.
Before co-founding GamerSafer, Oliveira Tamellini was an advisor at various organizations working to promote positive change in online spaces, such as Common Sense Media and TheGameHers, while also collaborating with research initiatives led by entities like the Anti-Defamation League, Take This, Stanford Reach Lab, WeProtect Global Alliance, and Fair Play Alliance.
What does GameSafer do?
GamerSafer is a software-as-a-service (SaaS) company that partners with multiplayer games, esports platforms, and online communities to provide safer and more welcoming experiences for players. The company implements cybersecurity technology to prevent child exploitation and foster healthier gaming communities.
Recently, GamerSafer acquired Minehut, a community of Minecraft players and servers aiming to expand the game’s global reach and enhance user experience through its security technology. The company has also raised a total of $1.2 million in funding over five rounds. Its latest funding was secured on May 9, 2023 through a grant.
Everton Viana- TauGC Bioinformatics
Viana is an entrepreneur and visionary who has developed expertise in the fields of biotechnology and artificial intelligence. As co-founder of TauGC Bioinformatics, he has been instrumental in developing computational solutions for genomic research, helping scientists and biotech companies discover new possibilities in precision medicine and genetic analysis.
With a background in bioinformatics and data science, Everton Viana has dedicated his career to developing innovative tools that optimize genomic sequencing, accelerate drug discovery, and improve personalized healthcare.
Before venturing into entrepreneurship, he worked on various research projects applying machine learning to biological analysis, optimizing algorithms for large-scale genomic studies and contributing to open-source initiatives in computational biology.
What does TauGC Bioinformatics do?
TauGC Bioinformatics is a cutting-edge company specializing in AI-powered bioinformatics solutions. Its advanced software platform enables the analysis of genomic data with high precision, facilitating the identification of genetic variations, disease risk prediction, and a more efficient design of targeted therapies.
By integrating artificial intelligence with next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies, TauGC Bioinformatics aims to revolutionize the field of genomics, making genetic knowledge more accessible and applicable. Its solutions are used in areas such as oncology, rare disease research, agriculture, and evolutionary biology.
Currently, there is no available information regarding the valuation of TauGC Bioinformatics.
Mate Pencz- Loft
Mate Pencz is a prominent entrepreneur and CEO of Loft, one of the most innovative proptech companies in Brazil. With a background in industrial engineering and a robust business career, Pencz has dedicated himself to transforming the Brazilian real estate industry through technology.
Before founding Loft, Pencz worked in several sectors, including investment banking and entrepreneurship. His experience at Goldman Sachs as an investment analyst and his time in the startup world gave him a unique perspective on the digitalization of traditional industries. After identifying the inefficiencies in his country’s real estate market, he decided to found Loft with the goal of improving the property buying and selling experience through process simplification and greater transparency.
What does Loft do?
Loft is a platform that uses technology to revolutionize the real estate market by connecting buyers and sellers more efficiently. The company specializes in buying, renovating, and selling properties, using advanced data and algorithms to set fair prices, and offer fast solutions to clients. This startup has significantly simplified transactions, thus ensuring property quality and an optimized user experience.
Since its founding, Loft has received significant investments and expanded its operations to other Brazilian cities. The company has raised over $700 million in funding and has established itself as one of the leading players in the proptech sector in Latin America.
Isabela Raposeiras- Coffee Lab
With a clear vision and a disruptive approach, Isabela Raposeiras has positioned herself as one of the most influential leaders in the coffee industry in Brazil. As the CEO of Coffee Lab, she has transformed the coffee culture in the country, becoming one of the main drivers of the specialty coffee movement. Her passion for coffee and her dedication to education and innovation have been key in taking quality coffee to new levels.
Raposeiras helped to develop the concept of “Specialty Coffee,” through which she has educated both producers and consumers about the importance of selecting and consuming high-quality coffee. Her career has focused on creating a space of connection between the different actors in the coffee value chain, including farmers, baristas, and end consumers.
Before venturing into entrepreneurship, the entrepreneur worked in various aspects of the coffee industry, from training baristas to evaluating coffee beans, always with the goal of improving coffee quality in Brazil.
What does Coffee Lab do?
Coffee Lab is more than just a coffee shop; it is an education center and a space dedicated to research and experimentation in the world of coffee. It offers courses, tastings, and personalized experiences to educate consumers about specialty coffee. Additionally, it promotes a direct relationship with small producers to ensure a sustainable and high-quality supply chain. The company also stands out for its innovative approach, using cutting-edge techniques to offer a unique and excellent experience in every cup.
At the moment, there is no information available regarding the valuation of Coffee Lab.
Monique Evelle- Inventivos
This social entrepreneur and activist is recognized for her work in creating technological solutions for social development. As co-founder of Inventivos, Monique Evelle has tirelessly worked to promote social inclusion through technology and innovation. Her disruptive approach has empowered vulnerable communities, especially in the areas of education and employment.
With a solid background in engineering and a focus on social impact, Evelle has dedicated herself to designing products and services that aim to solve real problems in communities across Brazil. Her entrepreneurial vision has been key in bringing education and technological opportunities to those who have traditionally lacked access to them.
Before founding Inventivos, Evelle actively participated in various social impact initiatives, and was recognized as one of the most promising emerging leaders in the field of social innovation.
What does Inventivos do?
Inventivos is a technology company that specializes in creating innovative solutions with a strong focus on social inclusion. Through its platform, the company connects people from vulnerable communities with educational and job opportunities, using technology as a driver of social transformation. It also promotes the training of young people in technological fields, providing them with tools to improve their life and work prospects.
At the moment, there is no available information regarding the valuation of Inventivos.
Flávio Augusto da Silva- Wise Up
Flávio Augusto da Silva is a renowned entrepreneur and one of the most influential business leaders in Brazil, especially in the education sector. As the founder of Wise Up, one of the largest English language school chains in the country, he has transformed the Brazilian educational landscape by providing access to quality education with a practical and modern approach.
After working in various sectors, da Silva saw a unique opportunity in the English language teaching market. In 1995, he founded Wise Up, a company that has established itself as the leader in the Brazilian adult education market. Later, in 2013, Flávio sold the company to an international group.
In addition to his success with Wise Up, the founder has also been an active investor and mentor to entrepreneurs. Through his investment fund and educational initiatives, he has supported numerous startups and projects focused on education and technology.
Da Silva is known for his emphasis on discipline, perseverance, and personal growth—principles he shares through conferences, books, and his digital platform. His vision continues to inspire many entrepreneurs in Brazil and Latin America.
What does Wise Up do?
Wise Up is a leading language education company in Brazil, specializing in teaching English to adults. Its approach focuses on a practical and effective method for those looking to learn English quickly and accessibly. In addition to its network of physical schools, Wise Up also offers online programs to meet the growing demand for digital education.
The company has expanded its national presence and has been a pioneer in creating innovative educational models. Its success has solidified it as one of the leading brands in the Brazilian educational industry.
Although an exact valuation of the company is not available, its financial performance and market presence indicate a significant value.
Marcos Maximiano- PISOCMAX
With extensive experience in the health and wellness sector, Marcos Maximiano has established himself as a leader in the field of mental health. As the founder and CEO of PISOCMAX, he has led the startup’s mission to provide innovative solutions for mental health care, improving people’s quality of life and contributing to emotional well-being in Brazil.
Under his leadership, PISOCMAX has developed digital tools and platforms that help people access mental health services in a more accessible and effective way. The company has stood out for its treatment personalization, thus adapting to the specific needs of each individual.
Before becoming an entrepreneur, Maximiano worked in the creation and development phases of various startups.
What does PISOCMAX do?
PISOCMAX is a startup focused on mental health, offering personalized digital solutions for emotional care and treatment. Its platform connects users with therapists and emotional support resources, using advanced technology to provide accessibility and effectiveness in psychological care.
The company also collaborates with mental health professionals, developing prevention and wellness programs aimed at improving the quality of life for people in the country.
Although no exact valuation of PISOCMAX is available at this time, its growing user base and positive impact on mental health suggest a significant market value.
Diego Martins- Unico IDtech
Diego Martins is a prominent entrepreneur in the technology and startup sectors. As the founder and CTO of Unico, he has played a key role in developing innovative solutions that are revolutionizing the digital identity and financial services sector in Brazil. His vision and technological approach have driven Unico to become a leader in identity management, enabling companies to offer safer, faster, and more accessible services.
Before founding Unico, Martins gained experience in various areas of the technology sector, where he developed a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities in the digital transformation of businesses. His passion for innovation led him to create a platform that not only simplifies identity verification but also strengthens security in digital transactions.
What does Unico IDtech do?
Unico IDtech is a technology company that offers advanced solutions in digital identity management and financial services. Its platform allows companies to perform real-time, secure identity verifications, helping to prevent fraud and improve customer experience. In addition, Unico focuses on facilitating financial inclusion and access to banking services through its data verification and validation technology.
The company has been a pioneer in its field and continues to expand its impact in the financial technology market, offering high-quality solutions to businesses in Brazil and beyond.
Cássio Barbosa- Hedro
Cássio Barbosa is a visionary entrepreneur in the technology sector. As the founder and CEO of Hedro, he has been instrumental in developing innovative solutions for industrial process automation in Brazil, especially in the steel industry. The implementation of advanced sensors and AI technologies has enabled Hedro to optimize production and operational efficiency for its clients, positioning the company as a leader in its field.
He founded Hedro over eight years ago, and the company has stood out for its ability to digitize and automate real-time processes. By integrating technologies such as AI and sensors, Hedro facilitates continuous improvement of industrial processes in key sectors like technology, manufacturing, and heavy industry.
Barbosa has a background in technology companies and startups, which has allowed him to deeply understand market needs and how technology can optimize various industries. Recently, he won the Airtech Challenge, an initiative by Daikin Latinoamérica and incMTY, which will help accelerate Hedro’s expansion in Mexico.
What does Hedro do?
Hedro is a technology company specializing in industrial process automation, using advanced sensors and AI solutions. Its platform allows companies to optimize operational efficiency in real time, improving decision-making and reducing operational costs. Hedro focuses on industrial sectors, collaborating with companies to improve their processes through digitization and automation. While it currently operates mainly in Brazil, the company has international expansion plans.
Giva Pereira- Favela Brasil Xpress
This entrepreneur is recognized for his work in social inclusion and logistical innovation. Born and raised in the Paraisópolis favela of São Paulo, Giva Pereira experienced the difficulties of accessing basic services and economic opportunities firsthand. At the age of 21, he founded Favela Brasil Xpress, a logistics company focused on connecting favela residents with large companies through efficient and accessible delivery services.
The inspiration to create this company came during the COVID-19 pandemic when Pereira and other volunteers distributed food and basic products in their community. They realized that many people outside the community wanted to donate, but faced obstacles due to the lack of a reliable delivery infrastructure. This led the entrepreneur to develop a solution that not only addressed delivery logistics but also created jobs and improved the local economy.
What does Favela Brasil Xpress do?
Favela Brasil Xpress is a logistics startup that connects favelas with large companies through accessible, efficient, and reliable delivery services. Its platform facilitates shipment management and product distribution both in the favelas and other urban areas, improving access to commercial services and generating local employment. The company uses its logistical infrastructure to transform the local economy by providing economic opportunities to favela residents through jobs in the distribution process.
Although the exact valuation of Favela Brasil Xpress is not available, the company is seeking to raise 1.3 million reais ($236,000 USD) through its participatory investment model to fund its expansion.
Adriana Barbosa- Feira Preta
Barbosa is a Brazilian entrepreneur recognized for her work in promoting Black entrepreneurship and exalting Afro-Brazilian culture. Born in São Paulo in 1978, she began her professional career in 1995 within the communications industry, collaborating with radio stations, television production companies, and record labels.
She founded Feira Preta in 2002, a platform dedicated to boosting the creative economy and entrepreneurship within Brazil’s Black population. This event has become the largest Black culture fair in Latin America, attracting nearly 200,000 visitors over its first 17 editions.
Adriana Barbosa also leads PretaHub, an incubator designed to map and accelerate Black-led businesses in Brazil. To date, over 600 businesses have participated in the program, reflecting her commitment to fostering a more equitable business ecosystem.
She is a central figure in promoting Black culture and strengthening Afro-descendant entrepreneurship in Brazil and beyond.
What does Feira Preta do?
Feira Preta is a platform that supports Black entrepreneurs through training, incubation, and visibility. Its goal is to create opportunities for entrepreneurship within the Black community while also promoting culture and innovation, especially through events and fairs that amplify its impact.
Rodrigo Colmonero- Gringo
Colmonero is an experienced entrepreneur in the technology and automotive services sectors. In 2019, he founded Gringo, a digital platform that helps drivers manage vehicle paperwork and licenses, simplifying bureaucratic processes through an intuitive and efficient experience.
Before founding Gringo, Rodrigo Colmonero worked at several companies, which allowed him to identify opportunities to improve the lives of drivers in Brazil. Under his leadership, the startup has raised over $29 million USD in investments and expanded its services, establishing itself as a comprehensive solution in the sector.
What does Gringo do?
Gringo is a platform designed to make life easier for drivers in Brazil. Through its app, users can check and pay vehicle taxes, manage traffic fines, renew their vehicle licenses, purchase insurance, and access credit options. The platform also offers personalized reminders and notifications to help drivers stay on top of their vehicle obligations.
Recently, Gringo was acquired by Corpay, a corporate payments company, with the aim of strengthening its vehicle payment business and expanding its impact in the market.
Gonzalo Parejo Navajas- Kamino
Parejo Navajas is an entrepreneur with extensive experience in technology and financial services. He holds a degree in Business Administration and Law from the Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, in Spain.
Gonzalo Parejo Navajas worked at companies like Groupon and Bidu before co-founding Ontruck, a freight services startup. In 2016, he co-founded Kamino, the Brazilian business financial management platform that he now leads.
What does Kamino do?
Kamino is a platform that simplifies the financial management processes for businesses in Brazil. It allows for the capture, tracking, and processing of bulk payments with a single click, facilitates automatic invoicing and collections, and offers real-time bank reconciliation. Additionally, it provides cash flow reports and financial statements, and enables instant payments and reconciliations. Kamino also offers credit cards with adjustable limits and has an open API that integrates with other software and ERPs.
Under Parejo Navajas’ leadership, the startup has raised investments from prominent funds like 50 Partners, Norte Ventures, Gilgamesh Ventures, and Global Founders Capital, thus establishing itself as a comprehensive solution in the Brazilian financial sector.
Victor Bernardino- Arado
Victor Bernardino is an entrepreneur and leader with a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities in the agribusiness sector in Brazil. Through his previous experience in companies and startups like Rappi and Natura, he recognized the needs of rural producers and the challenges they face in optimizing their operations.
In 2018, he decided to pursue entrepreneurship and founded Arado, a technology platform dedicated to transforming the way farmers manage their operations and make decisions.
Under Bernardino’s leadership, Arado has achieved significant milestones and secured key investments, enabling the expansion of its services and contributions to sustainable agriculture in Brazil.
What does Arado do?
Arado is a digital platform designed to transform the way rural producers manage their operations. Through its platform, farmers can access solutions ranging from crop management to financial data analysis. The company focuses on the digitalization of agricultural processes to facilitate decision-making and improve operational efficiency.
Additionally, the platform provides predictive analytics tools that allow farmers to optimize their resources and maximize the profitability of their land.
While there is no specific public information about Arado’s current valuation, the company raised $10 million USD in June 2021, during a Series A funding round led by venture capital fund Kaszek Ventures.
