
Brazil’s Ministry of Development, Industry, Commerce and Services has established Elas Exportam, a professional development initiative designed to support women-led companies in the audiovisual sector pursuing export opportunities. The program emerged from government data indicating that women comprised the majority shareholder base in only 14.5% of Brazilian exporting companies, prompting officials to create targeted training resources beginning in 2023.
The audiovisual sector joined the initiative this year as part of broader efforts to strengthen Brazil’s international film and television presence. Fourteen participants from seven Brazilian states, predominantly from Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, enrolled in the 88-hour online curriculum. The coursework combines technical export knowledge—including market analysis, financial management, intellectual property law, and regulatory compliance—alongside professional development in communication and pitch presentation skills.
The program operates through weekly classes led by female mentors with established expertise in international audiovisual trade. Participants receive both group instruction and individualized coaching at no cost, with mentors volunteering their time. The curriculum commenced in July and is scheduled for completion in November, featuring instruction from industry figures such as Walkiria Barbosa, executive director of the Rio Film Festival.
Program organizers emphasized the value of peer networking and professional mentorship in establishing market connections. Officials noted that recent international recognition of Brazilian productions—including Academy Award wins and festival accolades—has strengthened market positioning, creating opportunities for expanded distribution agreements. The initiative forms part of the government’s broader New Industry Brazil program, which designates audiovisual production as a priority sector for economic modernization and export growth.
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