CHALLENGE

Develop an operational RD&I network for application in advanced manufacturing in the Brazilian agribusiness sector, to be carried out sustainably and economically, using the various existing development tools and encouraging risk sharing between companies.

DEVELOPMENT

Initially the effort focused on understanding the application of digital transformation concepts for agribusiness, concentrating on beef cattle chain (pilot project). The result was a large map called Beef Cattle 4.0, which brought forth the interrelations between the sector’s links and potential conflicts along the chain. With this in hand, the next step was an analysis of trends and the presentation of solutions employing modern technologies (which allow implementation of Industry 4.0) such as IoT, blockchain and bigdata, to accelerate competitiveness in this chain.

RESULT

The unprecedented application of a process of innovation in the Brazilian beef cattle chain, as noted by the different meat processors and agents in the sector that were involved. A second substantial result was the development of a network operation and sustainability model focused on RD&I for advanced manufacturing for Brazil, when materials are made available that allow its replication in other sectors.

The project culminated at the general meeting and launch of the network, which took place in São Paulo in December 2019. At this event, in partnership with Embrapa, “boot camps” were held (sessions for preparation of startups and science, technology and innovation institutions) and matchmaking events (direct connection between investors, companies, and proponents of innovation). There was also the extensive presence of novice and well-established entrepreneurs, government and Embrapa representatives, as well as investors and journalists, which provided an enormous opportunity for making contacts. The process was innovative in the beef cattle sector at a national level.

Finally, the project helped in the theoretical and methodological foundation of public policies relating to advanced manufacturing, within the purview of the Ministry of Science, Technology, Innovation and Communication. It also created and presented to the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Supply, proposals for continued RD&I for the beef cattle sector based on international benchmarks.