To encourage the creation of an innovation ecosystem for fashion and promote the diversity and richness of national design and craftsmanship, the Brazilian Association of Companies of Components for Leather, Footwear and Artifacts (Assintecal), in partnership with Sebrae Nacional, hosts the Hub Conexão Criativa (Creative Connection Hub) every year. This space, which showcases innovative and disruptive materials, is one of the highlights of INSPIRAMAIS, Latin America’s leading industry trade show. The event will take place on July 15 and 16 at the Pro Magno Event Center in São Paulo, SP.

The space will select 25 companies, who will receive creative guidance from a consultant at the INSPIRAMAIS Design Hub. Interested companies should produce materials such as soles, insoles, heels, welts, leathers, metals/ABS, synthetic laminates, fabrics/weaves, embellishments, trimmings, communication/visual merchandising materials, composites, and biomaterials. Services eligible for application should provide consulting for the development of new materials/technologies or work with a database of materials and technologies that facilitate circularity and sustainability.

The project curator and Design Management consultant at Assintecal’s Research and Design Hub, Flávia Vanelli, emphasizes that the registered companies must demonstrate an exclusive, pioneering, and original character. Another important point is that the space is dedicated to micro and small businesses, associations, cooperatives, designers, and artisans. “For over ten years, we have provided this space as a democratic environment that consistently brings great innovations to the Brazilian, and even international, industry,” she said.

In addition to being featured at INSPIRAMAIS, the selected companies will have their materials and services included in a digital catalog that will be launched at the show, along with the opportunity to participate in online design workshops during the second half of the year. Registration for Hub Conexão Criativa is open until April 11 at this link.

About the Show

Promoted by Assintecal in partnership with the Center for the Tanning Industries of Brazil (CICB), the Brazilian Textile and Apparel Industry Association (Abit), and the Brazilian Furniture Industries Association (Abimóvel), INSPIRAMAIS is an initiative of Brazilian Materials and a partnership with Sebrae Nacional. Learn more at www.inspiramais.com.br.