BioCidades Empreendedoras: driving sustainable innovation in Brazil

girls talking and planning financially some task

[Madrid, February 4, 2025]Bridge for Billions, in collaboration with Instituto Legado and UNEP, is proud to launch the second edition of BioCidades Empreendedoras, an incubation program designed to support 50 early-stage entrepreneurs working on urban climate resilience solutions in São Paulo and Curitiba.

Encouraging sustainable innovation in urban ecosystems

Cities today face many environmental challenges that scale from rising temperatures to resource scarcity. Yet, within these challenges lie opportunities for innovation. BioCidades Empreendedoras is on a mission to support entrepreneurs tackling these issues through scalable, impact-driven ventures.

With a six-month incubation program, selected participants will gain access to:

  • Expert mentorship from industry professionals.
  • Hands-on training in key business areas such as financial projections, stakeholder mapping, and impact planning.
  • A global community of like-minded entrepreneurs, investors, and ecosystem leaders.

This initiative follows the methodology of Restoration Factory, a program developed by UNEP and Bridge for Billions since 2020, already implemented in eight countries and now strengthened in Brazil.

Who can apply?

The program is open to entrepreneurs in São Paulo and Curitiba (including metropolitan areas) leading early-stage ventures in:

  • Circular economy & waste management
  • Renewable energy & energy efficiency
  • Urban agriculture & agroforestry
  • Sustainable urban mobility
  • Environmental education & social entrepreneurship

If your business promotes environmental resilience and economic inclusion, this program is for you!

Creating impact, together

For over a decade, Instituto Legado has been a key player in strengthening social entrepreneurship in Brazil. With technical support from Fundação Grupo Boticário and ICE – Instituto de Cidadania Empresarial, this initiative reinforces the role of entrepreneurship in driving sustainable urban transformation.

The deadline for applications is February 9th.

Apply here: bit.ly/biocidades-empreendedoras

About the organizations

Instituto Legado

Instituto Legado was created to drive large-scale transformation through social entrepreneurship. Its mission is to foster new economies, empower social entrepreneurs, and cultivate a more conscious society. Through formal education, acceleration programs, and strategic opportunities, Instituto Legado strengthens, develops, and connects changemakers dedicated to social and environmental impact.

United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)

UNEP is the leading global voice on environmental issues. It provides leadership and encourages partnerships in environmental care, inspiring and empowering nations and people to improve their quality of life without compromising future generations.

Bridge for Billions

Bridge for Billions is a global organization that supports entrepreneurs by providing the tools and guidance they need to turn their ideas into functional and sustainable businesses. Founded in 2015, Bridge for Billions has developed one of the largest networks of online entrepreneurship programs worldwide, focusing on accessibility and innovation. Their structured, step-by-step incubation programs connect entrepreneurs with mentors from around the world, aiding the development of viable ventures. With a mission to democratize access to entrepreneurship, Bridge for Billions has supported thousands of entrepreneurs in over 100 countries, helping to transform communities and create significant impact.

For more information about the program or how to get involved, please contact Letícia Rodrigues, Program Manager at Bridge for Billions: leticia@bridgeforbillions.org

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Gender-based incubation impact

Explore the significant differences and progress of male and female founders in our programs. Download our infographic to see key data on job creation, revenue, and funding for entrepreneurs worldwide.