Building Bridges in the Amazon: Launching nexBio Amazônia for a Sustainable Bioeconomy
In July 2024, Swissnex in Brazil, in cooperation with the Leading House for the Latin American Region – University of St. Gallen, introduced nexBio Amazônia, a transformative bilateral innovation program aimed at addressing sustainability and biodiversity challenges in the Amazon region. The program, the result of nearly two years of collaborative efforts, brought together seven Brazilian startups, seven Swiss startups, five Swiss researchers, and various local stakeholders in a two-week pilot in the state of Pará.
The journey to nexBio Amazônia began in 2022 with a vision to merge Swiss and Brazilian strengths in fostering sustainable innovation. Through extensive interviews with over 50 local experts, five field visits, and a co-creation process, the program was designed to target regional challenges in key sectors such as cocoa, essential oils, and fisheries. It also prioritized solutions in supply chain optimization, quality assurance, and community empowerment.
The pilot launched on July 22, 2024, with an agenda blending theoretical sessions, immersive field visits, and cultural exchanges. Participants explored cocoa plantations, met chocolate producers, and visited iconic local spots like the Mercado Ver-o-Peso and Ilha de Cotijuba. They engaged with organizations such as the Xingu Incubator, Guamá Science and Technology Park, and the Bere Xikrin Indigenous community. These experiences deepened their understanding of the Amazon's bioeconomy and biodiversity.
The program's closing event on August 1, coinciding with Swiss National Day, showcased a pitch competition in which startups presented refined business models adapted to Amazon’s unique challenges. The event celebrated the cohort’s progress, fostering connections between local partners and international participants.
The outcomes of nexBio Amazônia extend beyond its pilot phase. Participants gained practical insights, established meaningful partnerships, and developed tailored strategies to address Amazon’s sustainability challenges. Follow-up initiatives include joint ventures, expanded collaborations, and scaling solutions within and beyond the region.
nexBio Amazônia is more than a program: it’s a platform for sustainable innovation, fostering lasting connections between Brazil and Switzerland. This inaugural edition marks the beginning of a long-term commitment to leveraging innovation for environmental, social, and economic benefits in the Amazon and beyond.