Nanoterra: Innovating with Roots

Nanoterra's story begins in 2015, with the creative restlessness of Dr. Iara Mendes, a young researcher from Goiás who saw in nature not just a source of inspiration, but a path to innovation with purpose. Her master's project proposed something bold: developing a nanoparticle from turmeric (Curcuma longa), a plant used for its therapeutic properties since ancient times. Thus the Naturaleza project was born — which would later become the seed of a revolution.

There followed seven years of research, testing, learning and maturing. Over that period, the idea grew into something bigger. Recognised by pre-incubation programmes and funding calls, Naturaleza came to occupy a prominent place at the intersection of science, biodiversity and socio-environmental impact. Until, in 2022, with support from FAPEG's Centelha 2 Programme, the seed officially germinated: Nanoterra was born.

Alongside Iara came Joaquim Araújo, an advertising and marketing specialist with a solid track record in beauty and innovation projects. His arrival in 2021 was the turning point that gave the project form and voice. The complementarity between science and communication strengthened the company's vision of the future — a vision always rooted in the Cerrado, in respect for traditional peoples and in the belief that Brazil can (and should) lead regenerative solutions for the planet.

Since then, Nanoterra has established itself as a deeptech that not only develops high-performance nanoactives from natural assets, but also transforms the entire value chain around it. Awards such as Finep's Innovative Women (2023), Tecnova III, Inovadoc, Trilhas da Inovação and other recognitions have validated our bold proposal to do science with responsibility and positive impact.

Nanoterra's nanotechnology is born with roots. Roots that understand conservation does not mean removing human beings from nature but, on the contrary, recognising their role as active agents in ecological cycles — as original peoples and traditional communities have done for centuries. Iara's vision, as a vegetarian and a doctor in Pharmaceutical Innovation, has always centred on deep respect for the biomes and the regeneration of life.

That is why, throughout this journey, Nanoterra has never strayed from its purpose: to raise the value of conserved biodiversity through regenerative technologies. Every product, every partnership, every process is guided by that compass.

Its mission, more than a strategic guideline, is a calling: to reframe the value chain of the consumer industry, transforming how we produce, consume and relate to the planet. A mission that invites companies, communities and consumers to be part of something bigger.

Its vision, bold and necessary, is to be the best nanobiotechnology company for the world. We believe sustainability starts with what we deliver: to the planet, to people and to society. When we care for the world, it lets us exist. And we want more companies to walk this path with us — not because we are better, but because we are better together.

Nanoterra is, therefore, more than a company. It is a movement. A new way of doing business — with science, with respect and with a future.