Introduction

Brazil's space sector, once marked by early achievements in infrastructure and research since the 1960s, is now undergoing a strategic transition. While public investment has driven progress, the sector faces challenges in competitiveness, coordination, and private sector growth. To revitalize its space economy in the era of the New Space economy, Brazil is seeking to overcome domestic barriers and tap into new global and local opportunities.

In this context, UNOOSA, in collaboration with UNDP since November 2022, is providing specialized technical assistance to AEB. The project aims to strengthen the competitiveness of Brazil's space economy, enhance collaboration between public and private stakeholders, and foster integration between space and non-space sectors-ultimately contributing to broader socio-economic development for the country.

Implementation

The Space Economy project in Brazil is guided by a collaborative strategy that emphasizes close partnership with AEB, engagement with local experts, and the integration of international best practices.

Phase I focuses on laying the groundwork by assessing the current state of Brazil's space economy and strengthening institutional capacity. Key activities include an online course on the foundations of the space economy, a masterclass designed for AEB staff to deepen understanding of global trends and evolving space agency roles, and a comprehensive research report on Brazil's space sector.

Phase II builds on these insights through an in-person national workshop that brings together key stakeholders from across the Brazilian space ecosystem. This forum facilitates discussion on current challenges, explores emerging opportunities, and collects input to shape strategic recommendations.

Drawing on outcomes from both phases and leveraging on expertise within UNOOSA and the wider UN system, a strategic roadmap aligned with Brazil's national priorities and the vision for its space programme will be prepared.

The final phase focuses on targeted capacity-building activities to support the implementation of the roadmap, ensuring sustained impact and long-term growth of a resilient and competitive Brazilian space economy.

Focus Areas

The Project focuses on 4 key areas:

1. To enhance regulation in the space sector.
2. To develop work competences for the space market, providing educational opportunities, and creating more inclusive jobs.
3. To boost the Brazilian Space Program (PEB).
4. To support the Brazilian Space Agency to be more active in New Space, expanding private sector participation in the growing space market.

Activities

Space Industry Workshop

With technical support from UNOOSA, AEB hosted the inaugural Space Industry Workshop in São Paulo from 2 to 3 April 2025. The workshop brought together over 100 international and national experts and participants to promote the growth of the Brazilian space sector by fostering greater commercialization, international collaboration, and integration of the space sector with non-space industries, creating new businesses and technological opportunities.

The workshop was specifically tailored for stakeholders and decision-makers from key economic sectors, who may not yet be fully aware of how space applications can benefit their businesses. The workshop demonstrated how space technologies can drive innovation, improve competitiveness, and create new business opportunities across industries. A highlight of the event was the dynamic combination of focus group sessions and a high-level plenary, which created a strong feedback loop to consolidate ideas, address common challenges, and develop actionable recommendations. These outcomes will directly inform the strategic roadmap for Brazil's space economy, advancing the country's vision for a more integrated, commercially driven, and globally connected space sector.