Maranhão Entrepreneur Fair 2026 to Showcase Women's Economic Impact

The Sebrae Maranhão Entrepreneur Fair 2026, scheduled for August 14-16 in São Luís, will highlight the significant contributions of women to the economy of Maranhão. The event aims to connect knowledge, opportunities, and business generation, with a special focus on female entrepreneurship through the "Espaço Delas" (Her Space). This dedicated area will host women entrepreneurs from across Maranhão for networking, mentorship, and experience sharing. According to PNAD Contínua data, over 305,000 women in Maranhão are entrepreneurs, representing approximately one-third of the state's business owners. Édila Neves, Director of Administration and Finance at Sebrae Maranhão, emphasized that "Espaço Delas" is designed to foster connections and support for women in business, encouraging them to grow and seize new opportunities. The fair will feature over 100 training sessions across 11 knowledge arenas, alongside spaces for innovation, credit, ESG, retail, and business development. The event anticipates thousands of visitors, including organized groups from Sebrae's regional units. The state-level ceremony for the Prêmio Sebrae Mulher de Negócios (Sebrae Businesswoman Award) will also take place on August 16, recognizing women for innovation, management, social impact, and economic development. Past awardees, like Nilma Marinanto and Maria José, have credited Sebrae's guidance for their business growth and professionalization. Ana Cláudia, a 2025 award recipient, shared how her success in beekeeping inspired other rural women. The fair underscores Sebrae's commitment to supporting small businesses and valuing women's role in Maranhão's economic development.