The Growth of Micro-enterprises and Opportunities for Investors in Brazil
In 2024, Fortaleza established itself as one of the main hubs for entrepreneurship in Brazil. The number of micro-enterprises and individual micro-entrepreneurs (MEIs) registered record growth, reflecting not only the strength of the local economy, but also the real opportunities that the city offers for those who want to start a business. According to data from Sebrae (Brazilian Micro and Small Business Support Service) – a public institution that offers technical support and training for small businesses – more than 874,000 micro-enterprises were opened throughout Brazil last year, an increase of 21% on the previous year. This growth even exceeded the number of new MEIs registered in the same period: 3.1 million formalizations, an increase of 6.7% compared to 2023.
For expats, investors and retirees thinking of starting a new chapter in Fortaleza, this scenario points to an expanding and increasingly accessible market, especially in the micro-enterprise sector. The city offers a favorable infrastructure for those who want to undertake with quality of life – and Praia de Iracema stands out as one of the most attractive areas to live and invest.
The growth of micro-enterprises in Fortaleza
Among the 4.15 million small businesses opened in Brazil in 2024, micro-enterprises (ME) – with an annual turnover of up to R$360,000 – stood out with 874,000 registrations, reflecting a growth of 21% over the previous year. This progress is directly linked to public policies that encourage entrepreneurship.
In Fortaleza, the trend follows this national movement. The Individual Microentrepreneur (MEI) model, which allows for a turnover of up to R$ 81,000 per year, continues to be one of the most accessible forms of formalization, especially for those starting out.
In Ceará’s capital, new businesses have been concentrated mainly in the services, commerce and tourism sectors, taking advantage of the city’s strong appeal as a tourist destination and an expanding commercial center. In addition, there has been a notable growth in the number of startups and digital initiatives, transforming Fortaleza into an emerging innovation hub in the Northeast. (You can read more about this topic by clicking HERE!)
Why has Fortaleza become a hub for entrepreneurs?
The favorable environment for entrepreneurship in Fortaleza is the result of a combination of a creative population, expanding urban infrastructure and encouraging public policies. According to the Ceará State Commercial Registry (Jucec), the capital has seen a consistent increase in the formalization of companies, especially in the gastronomy, retail and service sectors.
Sebrae, as mentioned, plays a central role in this process. In 2024, more than 56 million entrepreneurs across the country were served by the institution, which offers courses, consultancy, training and legal advice. For those arriving in Brazil unfamiliar with the local business environment, Sebrae becomes a strategic tool for understanding the rules of the game, navigating Brazilian legislation and turning good ideas into viable businesses.
Another advantage of Fortaleza is its quality of life. The city has around 1.2 million inhabitants and combines the tranquillity of a seaside destination with the infrastructure of a major capital. Praia de Iracema, in particular, offers a vibrant urban environment by the sea, with easy access to restaurants, cultural centers and leisure areas.
Sebrae’s Role in Small Business Success
Sebrae is today one of the greatest allies of small entrepreneurs in Brazil. With practical support ranging from the opening to the expansion of companies, the institution acts as an essential partner for those who want to succeed in a new country.
In addition to training, Sebrae also facilitates access to credit lines with better conditions and offers specialized consultancy in areas such as marketing, innovation and financial management – pillars for those who want to build a solid business from the start.
Challenges to Entrepreneurship in Fortaleza
As in any city, entrepreneurship in Fortaleza involves challenges. Although bureaucracy has been reduced with the digitization of many processes, it can still be complex for those unfamiliar with the Brazilian tax system. However, with the support of institutions like Sebrae, this path becomes simpler.
Another critical point is access to credit. Although there are financing programs aimed at small entrepreneurs, interest rates in Brazil remain high. In 2024, for example, the basic interest rate stood at 12.75% per year. Programs such as Pronampe have sought to mitigate this impact by offering credit with more accessible conditions for micro-enterprises.
Praia de Iracema: Quality of Life and Opportunities
For those who choose Fortaleza as their home, Praia de Iracema is one of the best options. After a process of urban revitalization, the area has about 4 km of reclaimed waterfront, with promenades, green areas, bars, cafés and cultural centers.
The neighborhood has established itself as a meeting point for expats, artists, digital nomads and creative entrepreneurs, who see Praia de Iracema as a rare blend of urban life and natural beauty.
In addition, Fortaleza offers a cost of living around 30% lower than in metropolises such as São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro – a decisive factor for retirees and investors looking for a good quality of life without high costs.
Conclusion: Fortaleza is the Place to Start a Business and Live
With the growth of micro-enterprises and MEIs in 2024, Fortaleza is consolidating its position as one of the best destinations in Brazil for those wishing to undertake, invest or simply live well. The city combines infrastructure, opportunitieFortaleza is a growing hub for micro-enterprises, offering investment opportunities, quality of life and support from Sebrae, especially in Praia de Iracema. Find out more and invest now!s and quality of life, especially in neighborhoods like Praia de Iracema, which combines the charm of the coast with urban dynamism.
If you are planning a new stage in your life in Brazil, whether as an investor, retiree or expatriate, Fortaleza offers everything you need to get started – and the Praia de Iracema Portal is here to help you along the way. (You can read more about this topic by clicking HERE!)
