Porto Alegre recently hosted the South Summit Brazil 2025, marking its fourth edition as one of the largest innovation and business events in Latin America. Taking place from April 9 to April 11, the event featured seven stages with over 200 panels and presentations, focusing on entrepreneurship, innovation, and sustainability.
The RS Innovation Stage was a highlight, showcasing over 50 presentations that accumulated 23 hours of exclusive content. Ernani Polo, head of the Secretaria de Desenvolvimento Econômico (Sedec), played a significant role in the event, participating in multiple panels and meetings aimed at enhancing the state's economic landscape.
On the first day, Polo joined a panel titled "A nova ordem econômica mundial" alongside Rafael Prikladnicki, president of Invest RS, and diplomat Marcelo Baumbach. They discussed the implications of changing political and economic structures on trade relations. Polo emphasized the strong relationships Rio Grande do Sul has with various countries, asserting that local products and expertise are highly valued globally.
The second day featured Polo in a panel called "Visitar, viver e investir: o Rio Grande do Sul como destino de novos negócios," presented by Governor Eduardo Leite. Polo, along with Secretary of Communication Caio Tomazelli and Prikladnicki, discussed strategies to attract investments to the state, referencing the Plano Rio Grande.
On the final day, Polo and Prikladnicki engaged in a discussion on innovation, titled "A inovação tecnológica no Plano de Desenvolvimento Econômico, Inclusivo e Sustentável." They outlined the innovative strategies adopted by the state government to stimulate the economy and attract new investments. Polo highlighted the partnership with Invest RS to facilitate the establishment of businesses in the state more efficiently.
During the event, Polo also addressed the RS Seguro program, which focuses on public safety through community engagement and innovative solutions. The program aims to combat crime while enhancing citizen services and social policies.
In addition to the panels, Polo held meetings with the Secretaria do Meio Ambiente e Infraestrutura (Sema) and representatives from Club Med, who are investing R$ 1 billion in a hospitality project in Gramado. Furthermore, a term of engagement was signed between the state government, Sedec, Invest RS, and Ultragaz, which aims to explore opportunities for biometano, BioGLP, and renewable energy expansion with a potential investment of R$ 100 million.
Reflecting on the event, Polo remarked, "The innovation is one of the strategic priorities of the Economic Development, Inclusive and Sustainable Plan of RS; therefore, hosting an event focused on this is a great opportunity to consolidate our state as a hub of innovative culture. Over these three days, we promoted Rio Grande do Sul, attracted investors, developed solutions, and discussed impactful socio-economic issues."
The South Summit Brazil 2025 also received praise for its infrastructure improvements. Wagner Lopes, one of the event's managers, noted a significant investment in facilities, which enhanced the visitor experience. He stated, "The assessment is the best possible, super positive. We understand that this was a very mature edition, possibly the best edition of South Summit Brazil. This year had a character of overcoming, especially after the Cais Mauá was flooded last year due to heavy rains. We intentionally left flood marks on the walls as a symbol of resilience."
Long-time attendee Nilson Ayala Queiroz remarked on the evolution of the event, highlighting the improved comfort and infrastructure. He noted, "It is clear that things have improved; the organization is more mature, which is normal as editions progress."
Notably, the change of dates to April, which brought milder weather, was well-received. The event's organizers invested heavily in climate control, ensuring comfortable conditions throughout the venue. Visitors appreciated the ease of navigation this year, with improved signage and a larger number of staff available to assist.
However, some areas for improvement were identified. Attendees reported long queues for restrooms, meals, and certain presentations, although Lopes indicated that adjustments made to the layout had improved overall flow. Connectivity was another concern, with some participants experiencing intermittent internet issues, though improvements were noted compared to previous years.
Security was also a priority at the South Summit Brazil 2025, with the Polícia Penal reinforcing safety measures. The Departamento de Monitoração Eletrônica (DME) monitored the venue and surrounding areas, ensuring a secure environment for attendees. Superintendente Luciano Lindemann emphasized the importance of their presence, stating, "The Polícia Penal, integrated with other security forces, is committed to reducing crime rates and enhancing the sense of safety at large events like South Summit."
Furthermore, the event showcased a pioneering sustainability project by the Brigada Militar, presented by Tenente-coronel Hermes Völker. The project focuses on solar energy generation and electric vehicles, aiming to serve as a model for other public institutions. With an investment of R$ 455 thousand, the project includes solar panels and electric vehicle charging stations, expected to save R$ 60 thousand annually.
Additionally, the Polícia Civil introduced the Delegacia Online (DOL) during the event, aiming to modernize public safety and improve access for citizens. Presenters Ricardo Milesi, Rafael Soccol Sobreiro, and Melina Zogbi Bueno Corrêa highlighted the platform's benefits, which allows citizens to report incidents quickly and securely, without needing to visit a police station.
Overall, the South Summit Brazil 2025 successfully showcased innovation, sustainability, and economic development, reinforcing Rio Grande do Sul's position as a key player in the global business landscape.
