RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL (By PETROBRAS, 9.Nov.2026, Words: 388) — PETROBRAS, in partnership with the National Council for Scientific and Technological Development (CNPq), has launched the Public Call for the InspirAção project, an initiative that will allocate BRL 30.24mn to promote the inclusion of young Black women in the fields of science, technology and innovation.
By December 8, Scientific, Technological and Innovation Institutions (STIs) and Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) interested in joining the project must submit research proposals on one of five priority themes: How to organize and transform ideas into innovation; Reducing emissions, operational efficiency and mitigating local impacts; Technologies that transform the energy industry; Technologies to improve people’s lives; and Past, present and future: the transformations of the planet.
CNPq will evaluate the quality of the proposals based on the clarity of the planning of research, extension and scientific dissemination activities, as well as the relevance of the projects to areas such as energy, sustainability, social technologies and innovation. Institutions with research experience, adequate infrastructure, and student support initiatives, including food, transportation, and monitoring of their development, will also be highly regarded. The quality of partnerships with public schools will be a differentiator, as will the commitment to diversity, racial equity and gender inclusion – principles that guide InspirAção Project.
The initiative seeks to expand access to scientific culture for Black students, encourage the development of talent for strategic areas of the energy industry, and strengthen diversity and equity in the production of scientific knowledge in Brazil. The selected female students will participate in research, outreach, and science communication activities and receive a Technical Support for Outreach in Brazil (ATP-B) scholarship of R$560.00 per month for a period of 36 months.
For public high school students in 16 states, the project represents an opportunity to gain hands-on experience in academic and research environments, bringing them closer to careers in science and technology. By combining investment in science, social inclusion, and opportunities for young talent, PETROBRAS and CNPq promote diversity and gender equity, bringing fresh perspectives to technological solutions and driving social development in communities near PETROBRAS’ industrial facilities.
The results of this call for applications are expected in Feb., and the scholarships will begin to be awarded in Mar. 2027.
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