GFCC President Discusses How Emerging Technologies Impact Competitiveness in Brazil

Published on Wednesday August 28, 2025

​​New technologies, and particularly Artificial Intelligence, are redefining productivity and driving a new race for talent. GFCC President Deborah L. Wince-Smith talked about how AI and other innovations are pushing countries and businesses to search for new strategies to grow sustainably, during the 7th Exhibition Brasília + TI, in Brasília, Brazil, on August 20.

Under the theme Frontiers of Intelligence: How Can Humans and Machines Redefine the Future Together?, the event brought together leaders, changemakers, startups, universities, government workers, and students to discuss how AI, sustainable innovation, digital governance, and emergent technologies are impacting society and the market.

On occassion, GFCC President defended the idea that collaboration across sectors is crucial to transforming economies. She highlighted the critical role of universities in driving innovation by working with government and businesses to accelerate technological breakthroughs and address critical socioeconomic challenges—an agenda that the GFCC has consistently advocated for through the work of the University and Research Leadership Forum and Leadership in Place-making Innovation.

She also stated that Brazil has valuable science and technology assets but risks falling behind if it doesn't remove economic barriers. She commented on the importance of exchanging knowledge and information and strengthening collaboration across countries, particularly between Brazil and the US, to advance innovation and improve overall competitiveness scores.

Participating in the same panel, Gianna Sagazio, CEO of Sosa Brazil, reinforced Wince-Smith's vision, drawing from her experience in creating new laws and guidelines to strengthen S&T in Brazil. She also highlighted the launch of the Social Leaders Forum, a new initiative or companies and governments discussing ways innovation can power growth.

The entire event was chaired and hosted by Carlos Jacobino, president of the Information Technology Industry Union of the Federal District (Sinfor-DF). In his remarks, he underscored the local sector's capacity to deliver modern and secure solutions. Other leaders also highlighted the importance of technology and innovation for Brasília’s future. Leonardo Reisman, executive director of the Foundation for Research Support of the DF (FAAP), pointed to the sector’s significant contribution to the local economy, representing 10% of the DF’s GDP. Marco Antônio Costa, Secretary of Science, Technology, and Innovation, emphasized the government’s commitment to developing a skilled workforce and applying technology in key areas such as health and education.

Wince-Smith joined a panel with these leaders and other participants, reinforcing the central role of innovation in driving competitiveness. She noted her appreciation for the strong local vision and leadership.

“Brazil has enormous potential. I was impressed by what I saw and heard in Brasília, and the GFCC looks forward to working together with leaders in industry and government to help advance the global presence and competitiveness of Brasília,” says Ms. Wince-Smith.