Czech Business Mission to Brazil: Nanoprogress Leads the Way in Strengthening Bilateral Cooperation in Nanotechnology and Innovation

Submitted by Anna Marytová on 04 October 2024

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São Paulo & Rio de Janeiro, August 2024 – A Czech business delegation, led by Nanoprogress, recently completed a successful mission to Brazil, organized under the auspices of the Consulate General of the Czech Republic in São Paulo. The mission, held from August 19 to 25, 2024, aimed to enhance collaboration between Czech and Brazilian institutions, with a focus on nanotechnology, innovation, and research partnerships.

The delegation visited key innovation hubs, research centers, and universities across São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, opening up new avenues for cooperation and technology transfer in various sectors. Key participants included members from Nanoprogress, a Czech cluster specializing in nanofiber technologies, as well as other industry experts and representatives.

Key Highlights of the Mission
Day 1 (August 19):
The delegation arrived in São Paulo, where they were greeted by representatives from the Czech Consulate. The opening day set the stage for a week of high-level meetings and discussions aimed at fostering closer ties between Czech and Brazilian stakeholders.

Day 2 (August 20) - Campinas:
The delegation's first visit was to CNPEM (National Center for Research in Energy and Materials), a leading research center in Brazil. This was followed by a productive lunch with CNPEM's leadership. In the afternoon, the team visited CCSNano, the Nanotechnology Center at Unicamp (University of Campinas), where the Czech delegation presented their expertise in nanofiber materials.

Day 3 (August 21) - São Paulo:
The day was spent at the Innovation Center of the University of São Paulo (USP), one of Latin America's most prominent innovation hubs. Czech and Brazilian researchers explored opportunities for joint projects in fields such as nanomaterials, biotechnology, and environmental solutions. In the evening, a formal dinner was hosted at Bovinus Churrascaria Rebouças, where the delegation met with the Consul General, representatives from the Brazilian Technology Institute, and other notable figures in the Brazilian business and academic communities.

Day 4 (August 22) - São Paulo Expo:
The delegation participated in the Feiplar, Feipur trade fair, where they attended multiple panel discussions and networking sessions. The event showcased cutting-edge solutions in composites, polyurethane, and thermoplastic markets, providing a platform to discuss the potential for nanotechnology in these industries. In the evening, the Consul General hosted a farewell reception before the team departed for Rio de Janeiro.

Day 5 (August 23) - Rio de Janeiro:
In Rio, the delegation visited prominent research institutions including Fiocruz, a leading health and medical research center, and PUC-Rio (Pontifical Catholic University of Rio de Janeiro). They also held discussions with representatives from UFRJ (Federal University of Rio de Janeiro). These visits strengthened the foundation for future academic and commercial collaborations. In the evening, a dinner was held with the incoming Honorary Consul S. Sobotka and members of the Brazilian Chamber of Commerce to discuss next steps in expanding Czech-Brazilian trade and scientific cooperation.

Day 6 (August 24) - Rio de Janeiro:
The final day of the mission was marked by informal meetings and cultural exchanges. The delegation had the opportunity to meet with Czech expatriates living in Rio and enjoy a tour of the city before their departure to Europe.

Outcomes and Future Prospects
The mission was highly successful in promoting Czech expertise in nanotechnology, particularly in the field of nanofiber materials. Brazilian institutions showed great interest in collaborating on the development and production of nanofiber layers for applications in air and water filtration, with the potential for expanding into medical applications. Discussions are already underway to explore the possibility of establishing a joint venture in Brazil to manufacture nanofiber materials.

Additionally, both parties expressed interest in continuing research collaborations and exploring funding opportunities for joint projects. This mission not only strengthened business and research ties but also deepened diplomatic relations between the Czech Republic and Brazil.

Special Thanks
The Czech delegation extends its sincere gratitude to the Czech Consulate in São Paulo, particularly Caroline Klausová, for the excellent organization and support throughout the mission. The event has laid the groundwork for future collaborations and innovations that will benefit both countries.

As these new partnerships evolve, the Czech-Brazilian cooperation in nanotechnology and other advanced fields is poised to become a driving force for innovation in both nations.

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