Conectare ITEC Park

Conectare ITEC Park, officially known as the Parque de Inovação, Ciência e Tecnologia da Universidade Franciscana (UFN), is a science and technology park located in Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Established in 2018, it was bolstered by a strategic plan focused on biotechnology, health, and education—areas where UFN holds significant expertise. In 2022, the park received funding through the MCTI/FINEP/FNDCT/CT-Verde Amarelo programme, aimed at enabling technological development and innovation ecosystems.

The park serves as a hub for companies and startups operating in knowledge-intensive sectors, providing infrastructure and services to support innovation and competitiveness. It integrates with UFN's broader innovation ecosystem, which includes a technological incubator, an innovation agency, research laboratories, and extension services. This integration facilitates collaboration between academia and industry, promoting sustainable economic and social development in the central region of Rio Grande do Sul.

The facilities include several specialised laboratories:

• Fablab – A creative maker space equipped for prototyping and practical innovation;
• Plastimaker – Focused on transforming recyclable waste into raw materials and educational tools;
• Health Laboratory – Featuring advanced simulation models for professional training in maternal and child healthcare;
• Electro-electronics and Robotics Laboratory – Promoting technological advancement through cutting-edge prototype development;
• Digital Prototyping Laboratory – Outfitted with high-performance computers for complex design and simulation tasks.

Conectare ITEC Park is managed by a team of specialised professionals dedicated to enhancing the region's wealth by promoting a culture of innovation and supporting knowledge-based enterprises. The park's mission aligns with UFN's commitment to excellence in teaching, research, and community engagement, aiming to transform the local community through technological advancement and entrepreneurial initiatives.