Daniel Vilela seeks to allocate R$1 billion in federal funds to boost Artificial Intelligence projects

The Government of the State of Goiás is seeking approximately R$1 billion in federal resources to invest in Artificial Intelligence initiatives. These funds are being sought from the Studies and Projects Financier (Finep), a public company linked to the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovations. The acting governor, Daniel Vilela, met with the president of Finep, Celso Pansera, in Brasília, on the afternoon of Tuesday, November 7, to begin negotiations with the agency.

Vilela explained: “Our state is a reference point in technology. We want to expand our operations, consolidate and increase Goiás’ leadership nationwide. Hence the importance of this partnership with Finep, an entity of extreme relevance for the advancement of research and innovation in the country.”

The Center of Excellence in Artificial Intelligence (CEIA) at the Federal University of Goiás (UFG) is among the Goiás government’s main priorities to receive a portion of the resources that were requested during the meeting with Celso Pansera. The center was established in 2019 through collaboration between the state government, businesses and the university.

Vilela added: “Now, let’s do our ‘homework’. We will structure solid projects that include strategic actions with great impact for the development of Goiás.”

The president of Finep demonstrates confidence in the potential of Goiás, stating: “With the skills built in the state, I am sure that you can establish an important Artificial Intelligence center that serves as a model for Brazil and Latin America, generating knowledge, jobs and wealth.” Pansera was also invited to participate in the AI ​​Summit GO, an international conference focused on the application of Artificial Intelligence, launched by the state government, scheduled to take place in the first half of 2024.

The former rector of UFG and current advisor to the presidency of Finep, professor Edward Madureira, noted that the existence of the National Fund for Scientific and Technological Development (FNDTC) offers encouraging prospects for the demands of the Government of Goiás, simplifying the allocation of resources. He stated: “Finep has the capacity to support. Let’s collaborate to make this a reality.”

The Secretary of State for Science, Technology and Innovation (Secti), José Frederico Lyra Netto, clarified that the objective is to popularize Artificial Intelligence: “We are going to work on the education of children, adolescents and young people so that we have, in Goiás, a digital society prepared to take advantage of this technology that is here to stay.”

Furthermore, during his stay in Brasília, the acting governor also met with the Minister of Ports and Airports, Sílvio Costa Filho, to discuss the State Government’s main demands related to the Anápolis Cargo Airport and the construction of the Regional Airport. of Jataí, including passenger facilities, parking, courtyard and other improvements.