Research and Innovation background
Transport research priorities are established by the Steering Committees for each of the transport Sectorial Funds, based on the strategic objectives outlined in the Government Plan. Coordination across these sector-specific funds is managed by the Sectorial Funds Coordination Committees, which aim to align research and innovation across transport sectors. The Steering Committee includes representatives from the Ministry of Science, Technology, Innovation and Communications (MCTIC) and the Ministry of Infrastructure, government agencies, universities, enterprises and funding institutions.
Key strategy documents and agreements include:
- Agreement for Scientific and Technological (S&T) Cooperation: This agreement, signed in 2004, became effective in 2007 and was renewed in 2022. It provides a primary framework for scientific collaboration between the EU and Brazil, supporting joint research projects, technology transfer, and innovation initiatives across sectors, including transport.
- National Logistics Plan 2035 (NLP): This document sets a long-term strategic vsion for Brazil’s national transport network, covering both cargo and passenger transport through 2035. The plan establishes performance indicators to track progress toward the goals outlined in the National Transport Policy. It emphasises infrastructure development, multimodal logistics integration, and sustainable growth in the transport sector.
- National Policy for Urban Mobility: This policy aims to promote sustainable urban mobility by prioritising public transport, non-motorised travel, and accessibility. It encourages investments in eco-friendly transport solutions to reduce environmental impacts and improve urban quality of life
Institutional framework of transport research
The institutional framework for transport research in Brazil is managed primarily by the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation (MCTI), which develops and implements national research policy. The MCTI oversees major funding agencies and supports 26 Research Support Foundations (FAPs) across each of Brazil’s federal states and in the Federal District of Brasília.
Key institutions and organisations involved in transport research include:
- Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation (MCTI): The MCTI coordinates research policy, oversees national funding agencies, and manages federal research initiatives. The Ministry supervises sector-specific transport research priorities, particularly through its influence over the Sectorial R&D funds.
- Innovation Agency (FINEP): FINEP plays a significant role in Brazil’s innovation landscape, managing several Sectorial Funds that finance R&D in specific industries, including transport. FINEP is instrumental in supporting collaborative projects and partnerships between academia and industry.
- National Council for Scientific and Technological Development (CNPq): CNPq provides scholarships and grants to support scientific research and innovation across Brazil, funding projects within academia, research institutions, and industry. CNPq also promotes Brazil’s international research collaborations.
- The following organisations are responsible for the operation of four Sectorial R&D funds in the transport sector:
- CT-AERONAUTICO: Aeronautics Sector
- CT-AQUAVIARIO: Marine and River Transportation Sector
- CT-ESPACIAL: Space Activities
- CT-TRANSPORTE: Rail and Road Sectors
These funds promote R&D programmes and projects in areas like materials development, construction, industrial technology, and infrastructure, fostering partnerships between universities, private companies, and research institutions.
Funding Sources and Support Initiatives
Current ongoing programmes
Brazil provides funding for transport research through both public and private sources, with a focus on fostering collaboration between academia and industry.
- Innovation Agency (FINEP): FINEP allocates both reimbursable and non-reimbursable funding to transport R&D through the Sectorial Funds, encouraging partnerships between universities and industry. These funds support projects ranging from basic research to applied, technology driven initiatives. Non-reimbursable funding is awarded via competitive calls, while reimbursable funding is offered through loans with favourable terms based on project type and borrower profile.
- National Council for Scientific and Technological Development (CNPq): CNPq supports the academic community through scholarships, research grants, and funding for project implementation. It provides scholarships for students and researchers at universities and think tanks and sponsors participation in scientific events and conferences.
- Brazilian-Swiss Joint Research Programme: Projects in information and communication technologies and water (related to the environment) are eligible for funding.
- Industrial Decarbonisation Hub (in collaboration with UNIDO and the UK): Supports sustsinabel industry projects, including transport, with funding from international climate funds and multilateral financial support.
(Last updated: 05/11/2024)