Petrobras launches record R$270 million cultural funding programme

Petrobras announced the Seleção Petrobras Cultural 2026, a public call that makes available R$ 270 million for cultural projects across Brazil. The funding is channeled through the Lei Rouanet and the Lei do Audiovisual, making it the largest cultural investment ever made by the Brazilian government and the company.

The edital offers eleven sponsorship modalities, including two new categories – Production of Games and Incubation & Development Cultural. At least 15 percent of the total budget must be allocated to each of the five macro‑regions, guaranteeing a minimum of R$ 40.5 million per region, and each state must host activities for at least two projects. A quarter of the selected projects must be led by, or address the concerns of, historically under‑represented groups such as women, Black people, Indigenous peoples, traditional communities, LGBTQIA+ persons and people with disabilities.

Petrobras president Magda Chambriard said the initiative will generate jobs, income and international recognition, noting that “each real invested in culture generates R$ 7.50 for society.” The event also unveiled the Petrobras Futures Art and Technology centre in Rio de Janeiro’s Flamengo neighbourhood, slated to open in August with a program of visual arts, performing arts and music.