Evolution of Venture Capital
Venture Capital (VC) funds are essential for creating sectors with high growth and innovation potential.
In this modality, managers and investors focus on startups that promote innovation and transformation, with a focus on technological solutions that have an impact on various sectors, especially those that have opportunities for global scalability.
Brazilian unicorns (startups with a valuation above US$1 billion) have been standing out in the innovation environment, boosting the country’s technology ecosystem by developing disruptive solutions and attracting international investment.
Although Brazil still has fewer unicorns compared to other countries, such as the US and China, the country occupies a leading position in Latin America. This success has been strongly driven by the active participation of VC funds, which provide capital and strategic support for the accelerated growth of these startups, leading many of them to unicorn status.
Introduction to Brazilian Unicorns
99
The first unicorn startup in Brazil, 99 is an urban mobility app that competes with other giants in the ride-hailing sector. In 2018, it was acquired by the Chinese company Didi Chuxing, marking the first complete acquisition of a Brazilian startup by a foreign company.
C6 Bank
A digital bank that offers accounts with no maintenance fees, investments, credit, and an international account. It became a unicorn due to its rapid expansion and innovation in financial services. It received a significant investment from JPMorgan Chase in 2021, boosting its growth in the digital banking market.
CloudWalk
A payment platform that includes the InfinitePay machine, focusing on low-cost transactions for small merchants. It received significant investments from Coatue and Valor Capital Group in 2021, consolidating itself among the most promising fintechs in the payments sector.
Creditas
Fintech focused on secured personal loans, offering competitive interest rates and real estate and automotive financing solutions. It received investments from funds such as SoftBank and VEF, which enabled the expansion of its credit lines and financial products.
Dock
A platform that allows the creation of customized financial solutions for companies, such as card issuance and payment processing. It received investments from funds such as Lightrock and Silver Lake, and has Visa as one of its main shareholders.
Ebanx
It offers international payment solutions, facilitating transactions between Latin American consumers and global e-commerce companies. In 2021, it received a significant investment from Advent International to expand its operations in Latin America.
Facily
A social e-commerce application that encourages group purchases to offer lower prices. It raised a significant investment in 2021, reaching unicorn status with investments from Goodwater Capital and Rise Capital.
Frete.com
Logistics startup that connects truck drivers and companies to optimize transportation and reduce downtime. With investments from investors such as SoftBank, it expanded its network of carriers and expanded its operations.
Gympass (Wellhub)
Corporate wellness platform that offers access to gyms and physical activities. It received investments from SoftBank and General Atlantic, which enabled its global expansion with partnerships in several countries.
Hotmart
Focused on digital education, Hotmart allows the creation, hosting, and sale of online courses and content. With investments from TCV and GIC in 2021, it strengthened its global presence in digital education.
iFood
A pioneer in food delivery in Brazil, iFood uses technology to optimize deliveries. With majority investment from Prosus and Movile, it expanded its innovations, including drone deliveries and artificial intelligence.
Loft
A platform that streamlines the purchase and sale of real estate using technology. It received investments from Andreessen Horowitz and SoftBank, expanding with the acquisition of CrediHome to strengthen its operations in real estate financing.
Loggi
It offers logistics and delivery services for companies, connecting customers and delivery people throughout Brazil. With investments from SoftBank and Monashees, it expanded its logistics infrastructure and expanded its operations.
MadeiraMadeira
A marketplace for furniture and decoration that operates both as a direct seller and as a platform for retailers. It received investments from SoftBank and Dynamo, strengthening its marketplace and integrating new product categories.
Merama
A company that accelerates digital brands in Brazil and Latin America, providing capital and expertise for expansion. Created with the support of funds such as Valor Capital and SoftBank, it invests in acquisitions to leverage regional e-commerce.
Mercado Bitcoin
The largest cryptocurrency exchange in Latin America, facilitating digital asset transactions. In 2021, it received a significant investment from SoftBank, which enabled the expansion of its operations.
Neon
Digital bank that offers accounts, investments, and credit cards as an affordable alternative. It became a unicorn after investment rounds led by General Atlantic, expanding its service offering.
Nubank
Brazil’s leading digital bank, offering a digital account and credit card with no annual fee. In 2021, it went public on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and received investments from Berkshire Hathaway, consolidating its global presence.
Olist
Platform that helps companies sell online, integrating stores with marketplaces and offering e-commerce management. With investments from SoftBank and Goldman Sachs, it expanded and acquired other platforms to grow in the sector.
Pismo
Provides infrastructure for financial services, allowing banks and fintechs to implement payment and credit solutions. It received investment from Amazon and SoftBank, expanding its operations to international markets.