The 23rd of July saw the official inauguration of the new Wayra Academy in São Paulo. This space will welcome the Brazilian entrepreneurs selected in 2011 in a venue where the exchange of experiences and the effervescence of ideas comprise a favourable ecosystem for innovation.
Spanning 1,200 square-metres, it is – like the rest of the Wayra Academies around the world – designed to promote interaction among the entrepreneurs, has an ultra-rapid internet connection, a games room and even a rest area for those who will spend nights turning their projects into realities.
“Brazil is a country with great creative potential and also a crucible of talents in the technology sector. At present, when the Brazilian market is very attractive for international investors, it is very important for entrepreneurs to have the backing necessary to develop their ideas”, said the CEO of the Telefónica Group in Brazil, Antonio Carlos Valente.
“The inauguration of the Wayra Academy in São Paulo is a very important milestone for us. Brazil is one of the largest global hubs for talent and innovation” added Gonzalo Martín-Villa, Global Director of Wayra (@linmvp on Twitter).
In this regard, and to guarantee the development of the entire ecosystem of entrepreneurship in Brazil, an agreement has also been signed with the Getúlio Vargas Foundation. This agreement contemplates the participation of Wayra Brazil in a competition among technology start-ups promoted by the institution, called Challenge Brazil.
It also contemplates access to training contents and support groups coordinated by the mentors of the Foundation, to assist entrepreneurs in the construction of the evaluation model of new start-ups and on important matters that could determine the success of these new companies, such as legal, financial and other aspects.
“When participants enter Wayra, they become part of a global acceleration structure, with the opportunity of enjoying all its benefits for the development of their start-ups”, explained the Director of Wayra Brazil, Carlos Pessoa.
