Grupo Pereira Launches Acceleration Program for Retail Technology Startups

Grupo Pereira, one of Brazil’s leading retail chains, has announced the launch of Grupo Pereira Startups (GPS), an acceleration program aimed at fostering technological innovation in the retail sector. The initiative seeks to attract startups developing solutions in areas such as artificial intelligence, Internet of Things (IoT), biotechnology, and nanotechnology.

Program Overview

GPS is a five-month program designed to provide selected startups with mentorship from industry experts, access to Grupo Pereira’s operational infrastructure, and opportunities for real-world testing of their solutions. The program follows an equity-free model, allowing startups to participate without relinquishing ownership stakes.

The initiative is open to startups with a validated Minimum Viable Product (MVP) that are either already in operation or in the growth phase. The selection process will evaluate the maturity of each business, the quality of the proposed solutions, the diversity of the team, and the viability of the business model.

Participants will have the opportunity to engage with Grupo Pereira’s headquarters in Campo Grande and attend events in Florianópolis. While the acceleration will primarily take place remotely, these in-person sessions will provide direct engagement with company executives and industry leaders.

Strategic Vision and Future Investment Potential

According to Alfredo Lopes, Technology Director at Grupo Pereira, the program is structured to establish meaningful collaborations between the company and the startup ecosystem. Unlike traditional corporate acceleration programs that focus solely on solving internal business challenges, GPS aims to position startups as strategic partners in the evolving retail landscape.

Grupo Pereira’s long-term vision includes the possibility of investment in selected startups. While the program currently does not guarantee funding, the company has indicated that it may make selective investments, particularly in startups demonstrating strong growth potential and strategic alignment with the group’s objectives.

Application and Selection Process

Startups interested in participating in GPS can apply until February 9, 2025. The selection results will be announced at the end of March, with the program officially commencing in April. The initiative is open to startups from across Brazil, offering them an opportunity to test and refine their solutions within one of the country’s largest retail ecosystems.

Grupo Pereira, which operates over 140 business units under brands such as Fort Atacadista and Comper, has been actively investing in technological advancements, including artificial intelligence-driven retail solutions and automated customer service tools. With GPS, the company aims to further strengthen its role in retail innovation by fostering collaboration with emerging technology firms.