If you’ve ever wondered how to secure investment for your business, know that this is a common question among those just starting out as entrepreneurs or looking to better structure their company. After all, financial support for small entrepreneurs is one of the main gateways for those who want to better structure their idea and grow with greater confidence.

The story of Jonathan Moreira Gomes da Silva, 34, illustrates exactly that. He participated in the Entrepreneurial Training Program offered by the Ramacrisna Institute in partnership with Petrobras and managed to turn a talent into a more structured business. In addition, he secured an investment of R$15,000 to boost his own company.

“The course provides a strength that we sometimes think we don’t have. It’s something that transforms the way you view your own business,” he advises.

Opportunities that transform

Jonathan had already heard of Ramacrisna. But it was through the Entrepreneurial Training Program, held in Sarzedo as part of the Building the Future VI project, that he discovered how the Institute transforms lives. Although he had been working with handicrafts since 2018, the business was still disorganized and lacked a clear direction.

He produces pieces using the string art technique—art made with nails and thread on wood. It all started simply, when he created a decorative item for his son’s baby shower.

“I saw an artist teaching this technique on a TV show and got curious. I made a decorative piece, and people asked where I’d bought it. When I told them I’d made it myself, they started encouraging me to sell it,” he recalls.

Despite the encouragement from friends and family, the crafts were still just a side income. “It was more of a side hustle, without much direction,” he explains.

But with the course, everything changed. During the 74 hours of training, Jonathan gained access to essential content for entrepreneurship, such as business modeling, financial management, digital marketing, sales pitches, and emotional intelligence, for example. “It was an incredible experience, full of knowledge and exchange. The consultants were amazing, and the result was very rewarding,” he notes.

The shift in perspective was one of the main takeaways. He began to see his work as a real business and not just a hobby.

“After the course, I started to better understand my venture, not just as something I enjoy doing, but as a real business. Before participating in this training, my venture wasn’t registered. Now I have a CNPJ thanks to the guidance I received,” he says.

Financial Investment

At the end of the course, Jonathan and the other students presented their business ideas in a pitch—a crucial step for anyone seeking investment. Jonathan stood out and was one of those selected to receive a financial investment of R$15,000, in addition to specialized consulting services.

For him, this moment held special significance, beyond the money itself. “Delivering the pitch and being chosen was the crowning achievement. I realized that my work has value and that I have the potential to grow,” he says.

The investment received was essential for improving the studio’s infrastructure and organizing the business. “Many things I needed, such as tools and space, for example, were out of reach. This support gave me the opportunity to better structure my business,” he explains.

In addition, Jonathan discovered a more strategic product than just selling his artwork. “I was able to identify a product that was more profitable: offering art workshops, which have become very important to me,” he notes.

Thus, Jonathan now balances his artisanal production with teaching classes, serving people of different ages and expanding his income stream. This change has impacted his results and further transformed his business. “Teaching has become very profitable. I enjoy sharing what I know, and it yields a significant return,” he emphasizes.

All of this experience brings him closer to realizing a dream: making a living solely from art. “Doing what we love and earning a living from it is amazing,” he says.

How to secure investment for your business?

The Entrepreneurial Training Course of the Building the Future Project is completely free. The initiative is carried out by the Ramacrisna Institute in partnership with Petrobras and aims to promote social inclusion, encourage leadership, and strengthen the autonomy of vulnerable youth and adults.

Each class has 30 spots and offers a full-time learning program. To participate, entrepreneurs must be between 18 and 45 years old and have completed at least elementary school. At the end of the program, 10 entrepreneurs are selected to receive consulting services and a financial grant of R$15,000.

Far beyond the grant, for Jonathan, the greatest value lies in the process.

“Beyond the financial value, the knowledge we gain is something no one can take away. And networking is also very important. That’s why the first step is to sign up. It’s an opportunity that adds so much to your business and your life,” he emphasizes.

If you’re looking to transform your business, Jonathan’s story shows that training, dedication, and access to the right opportunities make all the difference. Financial support for small entrepreneurs may be the necessary boost, but it is knowledge that sustains long-term growth.

Take the next step in your entrepreneurial journey. The Ramacrisna Institute’s Entrepreneurial Training Course offers knowledge, practical experience, and real opportunities for those who want to grow. Contact us to learn how to participate.