Innovation begins when we refuse to accept the obvious
At PRIO, innovation isn’t an abstract concept, it’s part of how we operate and evolve. Here, challenging ourselves is a requirement.
Through Research, Development and Innovation (R&D&I), we develop solutions that make operations more efficient, increase production and contribute to a more sustainable oil and gas industry.
In partnership with universities, research centers and specialized companies, we develop applied science and technology to transform knowledge into results.
Our portfolio is constantly expanding, with initiatives across different stages of development.
Why do we invest in R&D&I?
In Brazil, operators that have contracts with the National Petroleum Agency (ANP) are required to invest a portion of their revenue in R&D&I projects. At PRIO, we turn this requirement into an opportunity to accelerate innovation and develop solutions with a positive impact on our operations. That’s why we’re highly selective with our portfolio.
We direct our R&D&I projects toward areas that generate direct business impact and technological advancement across the industry.
How R&D&I works at PRIO
Our projects follow regulatory guidelines set by ANP and are developed in partnership with universities, research centers or specialized companies, as well as internally within PRIO.
Our focus is on projects with a Technology Readiness Level (TRL)¹ between 3 and 8, the stage at which technologies are developed, tested and validated in environments relevant to the industry.
To ensure technical quality and efficient management, each project has two core roles:
Sponsor
Responsible for defining the technical direction of the project and alignment with operational needs.
PMO
Responsible for documentation, financial management and monitoring project execution.
¹ TRL (Technology Readiness Level): metodologia desenvolvida pela NASA para medir o nível de maturidade de uma tecnologia.
Project Flow
INITIAL FORM SUBMISSION
Any researcher, university, or company can submit a proposal
AUTOMATED RANKING
A system ranks projects based on their potential operational impact
PRELIMINARY ASSESSMENT
The Innovation team screens projects for technical feasibility and strategic alignment
INTERNAL VALIDATION OF TOP PROJECTS
Our Innovation Project Leaders evaluates the best projects
APPROVAL AND PROJECT KICKOFF
Big challenges call for new answers
We collaborate with universities, researchers and companies developing solutions that are relevant to the industry’s challenges.
If you have an idea or technology aligned with our strategic initiatives, get in touch with our R&D&I team.
Learn about the regulations:
What is R&D&I?
R&D&I stands for Research, Development and Innovation. It refers to initiatives focused on generating knowledge, developing new technologies and creating solutions applied to industry challenges.
Why do oil companies invest in R&D&I?
In Brazil, companies that hold exploration and production contracts with the National Petroleum Agency (ANP) are required to allocate part of their revenue to Research, Development and Innovation investments.
These funds can be used for projects developed in partnership with universities, research centers or technological institutions, as well as within the operator itself.
What stage of technological maturity are the projects in?
Most of our projects are between TRL 3 and TRL 8 (Technology Readiness Level), stages in which technologies are developed, tested and validated before potential application in operational environments.
Who can participate in the projects?
Our projects are primarily developed in partnership with:
- Universities
- Research centers
- Scientific and technological institutions
- Engineering and technology companies
- Oil and gas companies
Do the projects lead to patents or publications?
Yes, the projects may result in patents, scientific publications and the development of new methodologies or technologies applicable to the industry.
How can I submit a project proposal to PRIO?
Institutions and companies interested in collaborating with our R&D&I program can contact the team responsible, via the form link below, to submit new ideas:
R&D&I TECHNICAL REGULATIONS
Access the regulations currently in force, the guidance manual and standard forms established by the National Agency of Petroleum, Natural Gas and Biofuels (ANP) to ensure compliance with Research, Development and Innovation obligations.