Discover if this is a suitable investor for your startup. If they are we'll make a warm introduction for free. Otherwise, we'll connect you with matching investors.
Inova Startups is a collaborative venture capital program established in 2021, involving key partners such as Sebrae, Bossa Invest, Raja Ventures, Unifique, and BRDE. This program is designed to support the growth of innovative and scalable startups throughout Brazil, particularly in the technology sector. By integrating financial investment with mentorship and training, Inova Startups aims to create a supportive environment for early-stage entrepreneurs.
As of now, Inova Startups has invested in 76 companies across 10 Brazilian states, showcasing its reach and impact within the local startup ecosystem. The program has received a total of 3,786 applications, reflecting its popularity among aspiring founders. The total capital for the fifth edition of the program is R$ 40 million, pooled from seven institutional partners, with a maximum investment of R$ 750,000 available for selected startups.
Inova Startups primarily invests in early-stage startups, specifically targeting those seeking angel or pre-seed funding. The program focuses on startups with valuations of up to R$ 15 million and requires a minimum monthly recurring revenue of R$ 10,000. Supported business models include B2B, B2B2C, B2C, and B2G, emphasizing the need for validated products or services.
The investment strategy is structured around a three-phase program that includes financial investment, mentorship, training workshops, and community connections. This approach not only provides capital but also equips startups with the necessary tools to refine their business models and achieve key milestones. Inova Startups seeks scalable and digital business models, with a preference for those close to or at break-even in later cohorts.
Inova Startups has built a diverse portfolio of 76 companies, showcasing its commitment to supporting various sectors within the tech industry. Notable portfolio companies include:
Olavo Bevilaqua: M&A Strategy, unico IDtech. He has extensive experience in mergers and acquisitions, focusing on technology-driven companies.
Jhenyffer Coutinho: CEO of Se Candidate, Mulher! Jhenyffer has a strong background in leading initiatives that empower women in technology.
Raul Mafra: Consultative Lawyer at Ferreira & Chagas, specializing in legal frameworks for startups.
Joziana Abreu: Consultative Lawyer at Ferreira & Chagas, with expertise in corporate law and compliance.
Isadora Azzalin: Startup Communities Manager at Sebrae for Startups, focusing on building supportive networks for entrepreneurs.
Dayane Prim: Partner & Revenue Director at Molde.me, with a focus on revenue growth strategies for startups.
Yuri Gitahy: Founder of Lean VC and Chief eXecution Officer at CxO.work, experienced in venture capital and startup execution.
Eduardo Mattos: CEO of Intexfy, with a background in digital transformation and technology solutions.
Rafael Takashi: Innovation Consultant at Troposlab, specializing in innovative business solutions.
Thiago Melo: Senior Global Product Manager at BEES, with expertise in product management and market strategy.
André Novelino: Head of Marketing at Pravaler, focusing on marketing strategies for startups.
Pedro Clivati: Growth Specialist at Ideate, with a focus on scaling startups.
Fausto Reichert: BrCRO Revenue at PipeRun, specializing in revenue optimization for tech companies.
Theo Orosco: CEO of Exact Sales, with a strong background in sales strategies for startups.
David Ledson MSc: Board Member and VP of Strategy, experienced in strategic planning for startups.
Cristiano Fernandes Freitas: Accountant for Startups and Scale-ups, providing financial guidance to early-stage companies.
Martin Lima: MBA Candidate at Berkeley Haas, focusing on entrepreneurship and venture capital.
Juan Bernabó: Founder of Germinadora, with experience in startup incubation.
Pedro Cursi: Specialist in Open Innovation at Bossanova, focusing on collaborative innovation strategies.
Matheus Zanini: Venture Capital Investment Analyst at Bossanova, with expertise in evaluating startup investments.
Miguel Araujo: Investment and M&A at Bossanova, specializing in mergers and acquisitions in the tech sector.
Founders interested in pitching to Inova Startups should submit their applications through the official website. The pitch deck should include a detailed business plan, financial projections, and information about the founding team. Inova Startups typically responds within a few weeks of submission.
Warm introductions are preferred but not mandatory. Founders should ensure their pitch clearly outlines the problem being solved, the target market, and the competitive landscape.
Inova Startups recently announced its fifth edition, with an initial tranche of R$ 3 million set for 2025, projected to reach R$ 15 million by 2028. This edition continues to attract significant interest, with over 3,786 applications received since its inception.
In 2023, Inova Startups celebrated the successful exit of several portfolio companies, highlighting its effective investment strategy and support model. The program has also expanded its partnerships, enhancing its ability to provide resources and mentorship to startups across Brazil.
What are Inova Startups' investment criteria?
Inova Startups invests in early-stage startups with valuations up to R$ 15 million and requires a minimum monthly recurring revenue of R$ 10,000. Startups must demonstrate a validated business model and be scalable.
How can I apply or pitch to Inova Startups?
Founders can apply through the Inova Startups website. The application process includes submitting a detailed business plan and financial projections.
What makes Inova Startups different from other investors?
Inova Startups combines financial investment with mentorship, training workshops, and community connections, providing a comprehensive support system for early-stage entrepreneurs.
What is the geographic scope of Inova Startups?
The program focuses on startups across Brazil, with a particular emphasis on those located in Santa Catarina.
What is the maximum investment amount per startup?
Inova Startups can invest up to R$ 750,000 in selected startups, with potential follow-on investments available in later phases.
What kind of post-investment support does Inova Startups provide?
Inova Startups offers mentorship, training workshops, and access to a network of industry professionals to help startups refine their business models and achieve growth milestones.
All trademarks, logos and brand names are the property of their respective owners. All company, product and service names used in this website are for identification purposes only. Use of these names, trademarks, and brands does not imply endorsement.