Várzea Grande lauded as model for implementing Aldir Blanc cultural funds in Brazil

Municipal Secretary of Education, Culture, Sports and Leisure Maria Fernanda Figueiredo received representatives of the Ministry of Culture in Várzea Grande on 1 May. The meeting, attended by the state office coordinator Lígia Viana and Cultural Superintendant Lu Arruda, reviewed the municipality’s use of resources under the National Aldir Blanc Culture Promotion Policy (PNAB).

Lígia Viana praised Várzea Grande as a reference in Mato Grosso, noting that the city was among the first to launch three ongoing cultural calls and has a structured plan for future cycles. She highlighted that “each real invested in culture returns about five reais to the economy,” emphasizing job creation and social transformation.

The local team explained that the first cycle was completed with excellence and the second cycle is underway, with a target to execute at least 60 % of allocated funds by the end of the year to secure the third cycle scheduled for 2027. Várzea Grande is also considering the creation of a dedicated culture secretariat to further strengthen cultural policies.

The Ministry’s validation provides additional security for cultural producers, artists and collectives, reinforcing transparency and alignment with national guidelines.