The Brazilian shipbuilding industry has just received R$ 41 million to invest in new technology and equipment. FINEP has launched a public invitation with non-reimbursable funds (which do not need to be returned) from the National Fund for Scientific and Technological Development (FNDCT)/Sector Funds to support cooperative projects between scientific and technology research institutions and companies operating in ship parts for inland, coastal and long haul shipping.

The goal is to increase the national content of vessels produced in Brazil and increase the capacity to generate jobs in shipbuilding, seeking to ensure the necessary support for growth of the industry with sustainable and social development. Proposals will be selected that are focused on at least one of the following four topics: navigation, positioning, anchoring and mooring systems; energy generation, distribution and storage; automation, control and software; and environment, safety and salvage.

At least 40% of the funds will be used in the North, Northeast and Midwest regions and in the regions covered by SUDENE and SUDAM.

The selection of projects will take place in two stages. In the first stage, the company, individually or jointly with other companies, should submit an Expression of Interest Letter for each proposal.

Each company or group of companies may present more than one Expression of Interest Letter, if requiring more than one technological development proposal, with a minimum value of R$ 1.1 million and maximum value of R$ 3.3 million per proposal. Expression of Interest Letters must be submitted by June 21, 2013.

06 June 2013