Fapespa celebrates 18 years boosting science, innovation, and development in Pará
Focusing on sustainability, international cooperation, and strengthening research, the Foundation establishes itself as a strategic reference for the future of the Amazon
The Amazon Foundation for Support of Studies and Research (Fapespa) completes 18 years of operation this Thursday (24), establishing itself as one of the main institutions promoting science, technology, and innovation in Eastern Amazon. Founded in 2007, Fapespa's mission is to boost sustainable development in Pará through support for scientific production and the generation of solutions to the socioeconomic and environmental challenges of the region.
Throughout the day, staff and collaborators celebrated the date with symbolic acts and expressions of recognition for the Foundation's trajectory and the dedication of its team. Cassia Santos, a technician in CT&I management and coordinator of contacts and agreements at Dicet, celebrated: “In the last five years, Fapespa has received a management that embraced it and made it recognized throughout the state. We have boosted funding in Pará, and being part of this participatory management makes me very happy.”
Regional reference and national impact
Since 2015, with the incorporation of the collection and technical team from the now-defunct Institute of Economic, Social, and Environmental Development of Pará (Idesp), Fapespa has expanded its activities in analyzing indicators and structuring evidence-based public policies. Currently, the Foundation supports graduate programs, research projects, and innovative initiatives, establishing itself as a reference in supporting regional scientific development.
“Reaching adulthood, we can see the great advances that Pará has made in its scientific performance, thanks to Fapespa's support. Today we have groups recognized worldwide for their excellence and ability to generate solutions for our region,” highlighted the Foundation's president, Marcel Botelho.
International cooperation and focus on bioeconomy
Fapespa has expanded partnerships with institutions from Brazil and abroad, as part of the Amazon +10 Initiative, which brings together research support foundations from across the country and partners from England, Germany, Italy, and Switzerland. More than 39 projects were approved in the first call, and a new round will be launched in the second semester, focusing on the verticalization of priority productive chains.
“We will launch a call aimed at five or six main productive chains in the region, seeking more sustainability and community involvement so that there is a real gain for both the forest and the indigenous peoples,” explained Botelho.
Strategic programs and calls
The Foundation promotes calls aimed at forming research networks, valuing local knowledge, certifying products, and regional development. Among the highlights are:
- Bolsa-Pará: training human resources in strategic areas;
- Bolsa Escola Pará (BEP): extracurricular projects focused on local solutions;
- Scientific Initiation – Undergraduate (IC-Gr);
- Graduate Scholarships (ME, DO, PDO), including abroad.
