F/MS Top Startup Cities

5 min read

Brasilia, Brazil #339

City Scores

City Total Score

0.725

Overall ranking score

Quality Score

0.04

Ecosystem quality rating

Quantity Score

0.18

Ecosystem size rating

Business Score

0.5

Business environment rating

Score Distribution

Score Comparison

MeanCEO Index Click to scroll to details

61

Startup Ecosystem in Brasília 🇧🇷

TL;DR

Brasília is currently ranked as the 339th city in the Global F/MS “Best Cities for Startups” Index. While it may not be the largest startup hub in Brazil, it offers unique opportunities for entrepreneurs, particularly in sectors like technology and public services.

Startup-Friendly Stuff 📈

1. Ease of Company Registration

  • Business Registration: Digital platforms available, making the registration process more efficient.
  • Startup Incentives: Local government initiatives support tech startups, including tax breaks.

2. Employment Law 🏢

  • Labor Regulations: Employment laws are generally supportive, but can be cumbersome for small startups.
  • Hiring Foreign Talent: Foreigners face some regulatory hurdles when securing work permits.

3. Taxation 💰

  • Corporate Tax Rate: The standard rate is around 34%, though startups may qualify for reductions.
  • VAT Regulations: Competitive VAT rates, especially for services, making it easier for tech and service industries.

4. Quality of Life 🌆

  • Living Standards: High quality of life with modern amenities; however, affordability can vary.
  • Culture and Leisure: Known for its architectural beauty, the city offers parks, cultural events, and a vibrant social scene.

5. Bureaucracy 🗂️

  • Ease of Navigation: Rules can be intricate, yet navigating governmental services is generally feasible.
  • Government Support: Supportive programs exist to foster innovation and entrepreneurship, although awareness can be limited.

6. Visas for Entrepreneurs 🌍

  • Startup Visas & Permits: The process for obtaining business visas is straightforward but requires documentation.
  • Residency Options: Options for long-term residence exist for qualifying entrepreneurs.

Startup Community 🤝

7. Networking Events

  • Monthly meetups, pitches, and workshops foster community engagement.
  • Local tech events often attract both domestic and international participants.

8. Subsidies and Funding 💵

  • State-backed initiatives provide funding opportunities for tech startups.
  • Various grants are available, focusing on innovative projects.

9. Venture Capital (VC) Presence

  • Investments: While developing, Brasília has a growing interest in funding local startups.
  • Major Firms: A mix of local and national VCs are looking to invest in promising sectors.

10. Incubators & Accelerators 🚀

  • Several incubators focus on tech, education, and social innovation.
  • Programs typically provide mentorship and networking opportunities, along with workspace.

Technology & Industry Priorities 🔧

  • Focus Areas: Public sector tech, smart city solutions, and education tech.
  • Government Initiatives: Emphasis on sustainable development and technological innovation in public services.

Business Culture 🏙️

  • Language: Portuguese is the primary business language; English proficiency is increasing among startups.
  • Work Environment: Collaborative with a fast-paced atmosphere, encouraging innovation and networking.

General Pros and Cons ⚖️

Pros:

  • Government support specifically tailored to attract startups.
  • Strong quality of life and educational institutions.
  • Rich cultural scenes and networking opportunities.

Cons:

  • Bureaucratic processes can be complex.
  • Limited international VC presence compared to other cities.

Initiatives for Female Entrepreneurs 👩‍💼

  • Growing programs and workshops are available to support women in business.
  • Networking events specifically for female entrepreneurs are becoming more frequent.

Brasília offers a distinctive opportunity for startups with its support for innovation and collaborative culture, making it a viable choice for aspiring entrepreneurs. 🚀

MeanCEO Index for Brasília 🇧🇷

Brasília, the capital of Brazil, may not be the nation’s largest startup hub, but it presents unique opportunities for female entrepreneurs. Let’s evaluate Brasília’s MeanCEO Index score based on ten essential criteria that shape its entrepreneurial environment.

1. Weather ☀️

  • Score: 7/10
    • Brasília enjoys a tropical savanna climate with a good amount of sunny days, particularly during the dry season. While it experiences some rainfall, overall, the pleasant weather favors outdoor meetings and networking.

2. Location 🏞️

  • Score: 5/10
    • While Brasília is surrounded by natural beauty and lakes, it lacks direct access to coastal beaches. The city’s elevated location brings stunning views but misses the waterfront charm often sought by entrepreneurs.

3. Women Friendly 👩‍💼

  • Score: 6/10
    • Although Brazil has made strides in gender equality, Brasília still faces challenges such as cultural stereotypes. Nevertheless, there is a growing community that supports female entrepreneurs, fostering empowerment and collaboration.

4. Foreigners Friendly 🌍

  • Score: 6/10
    • Brasília is generally welcoming to foreigners, but cultural barriers may persist. The friendliness of locals is notable, although networking opportunities may not be as robust for newcomers compared to larger cities.

5. English as a Business Language 📚

  • Score: 5/10
    • Portuguese is the primary language of business, and while English proficiency is increasing, it can be a barrier for non-Portuguese speakers, particularly for establishing formal business connections.

6. Delicious Cuisine 🍷

  • Score: 7/10
    • Brasília’s cuisine includes a variety of tasty dishes, influenced by the diverse cultures of Brazil. While local specialties may include onions, the emphasis on fresh, healthy ingredients and local beverages holds a strong appeal.

7. Ease of Getting Married and Starting a Family 💍

  • Score: 5/10
    • The social scene in Brasília is active, yet the focus on professional life can leave personal relationships secondary. The community is welcoming, but the busy lifestyle may pose challenges for those looking to start a family.

8. Medicine 🏥

  • Score: 6/10
    • Access to healthcare is viable, but efficiency can vary. While it’s generally possible to get appointments, the system may exhibit some delays, thus slightly hindering its appeal for potential residents.

9. Ease of Transportation & Traveling 🚍

  • Score: 6/10
    • Brasília’s public transportation system has room for improvement but offers options for navigating the city. The presence of an international airport supports travel needs, albeit with limited domestic flight options compared to larger hubs.

10. Startup Mindset 💡

  • Score: 8/10
    • The entrepreneurial culture is increasingly supportive, with acceptance of failure viewed as part of the learning process. Various local initiatives encourage innovation, particularly within tech and public services.

MeanCEO Index Score: 61/100 🎉

Brasília might not be the top startup city in Brazil, but it offers a solid foundation for female entrepreneurs aspiring to create impactful ventures. With its supportive community, growing resources, and a focus on technology, Brasília presents both challenges and unique opportunities for innovative minds. As the startup ecosystem continues to evolve, it cultivates an environment ripe for growth and collaboration.

Happy entrepreneurship! 🚀