IFIA, ABIPIR, AND THE BRAZIL-CHINA COOPERATION HUB PARTICIPATE IN CONEXÃO 8
The Conexão 8 event, held over three days, brought together experts from various fields to discuss strategies for mitigating the devastating effects of recent floods in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, located in southern Brazil. The primary goal was not only to address the immediate damage caused by the climate disaster but also to develop preventive measures to safeguard against future occurrences.
Several speakers and organizers visited some of the flood-affected areas, witnessing firsthand the devastation and becoming deeply moved by the tragic scenes they encountered.
The event was organized by Taisa Trevisan and Débora Bibiano, with support from Parimpacto, represented by Mariangela Lückmann, Luísa Davalos, Fátima Langbeck, Cleber Zorzéa, and Paul Cruz Jr. For more information on the speakers, topics discussed, and the institutions that supported the event, including IFIA and ABIPIR, please visit: www.conexao8.com.br
The International Federation of Inventors’ Associations (IFIA), the Brazil International Innovative Inventors, Scientists and Entrepreneurs Association (ABIPIR), and the Brazil-China Cooperation Hub were represented by Marcelo Vivacqua, IFIA’s Director for Latin America, President of ABIPIR, and Director of the Brazil-China Cooperation Hub.
Participation in such a vital event, aimed at restoring the quality of life for thousands affected by natural disasters, aligns with IFIA’s mission, under the leadership of President Alireza Rastegar. IFIA remains committed to promoting the use of science, technology, innovation, and inventiveness to make life healthier, safer, and more comfortable for people around the world.
During the event, Mr. Vivacqua delivered a lecture titled “Collaboration and Innovation Catalyzing the Reconstruction Process of the State of Rio Grande do Sul.” He outlined three key strategies to support recovery efforts:
- Financial Support for Entrepreneurs: Assisting entrepreneurs from Rio Grande do Sul in submitting proposals for non-refundable financial subsidies from national and international sources, with the support of the IFIA-ABIPIR LATAM Office.
- International Collaboration: Establishing strategic relationships with international stakeholders, such as those from the BRICS Academy, led by Dr. Liu, and represented in Brazil by the Brazil-China Cooperation Hub, to create tailored solutions for recovery.
- Open Innovation Programs: Encouraging local governments to organize open innovation programs that identify challenges and invite startups to propose sustainable, customized solutions. Mr. Vivacqua’s expertise in this area stems from his experience as Undersecretary of Innovation for the Government of Espírito Santo, where he initiated the “Espírito Santo State Government Relationship Program with Startups – StartupES.”
To access the content of Mr. Vivacqua’s lecture, visit: drive.google.com
At the conclusion of the event, a letter of intent was signed, outlining the recommendations presented during the discussions. This letter will be submitted to the Governor of Rio Grande do Sul, Mr. Eduardo Leite, by State Deputy Guilherme Pasin.
If you are an inventor, academic researcher, or entrepreneur with innovative solutions to mitigate the effects of floods or contribute to flood prevention, or if you represent a public or private institution interested in sponsoring projects to aid the recovery of Rio Grande do Sul, please reach out via email: marcelo-vivacqua@hotmail.com.
The Conexão 8 organizing team, along with the IFIA-ABIPIR LATAM Office and the Brazil-China Cooperation Hub, will coordinate all initiatives with the support of international financial, technological, and innovative resources.