– By Sofia Costa, Communications Manager at Swissnex in Brazil

MATIS is a Swiss startup led by CEO and Founder Marie Didier. Specializing in advanced multispectral imaging and artificial intelligence, MATIS is revolutionizing how art is assessed and conserved. With their first product finalized and the startup in its go-to-market stage, Marie has turned her sights to Brazil—its rich cultural heritage and openness to innovation make it a perfect fit for MATIS’s solutions.

Marie’s journey in Brazil began in May 2024 when she participated in the Startup Camp, powered by Innosuisse and organized by Swissnex, as part of the Market Validation Camp (MVC) during Web Summit Rio. The experience not only allowed her to pitch MATIS to a high-level tech audience but also led to meaningful connections that encouraged her to return for the Market Entry Camp (MEC) in November.

With Swissnex in Brazil’s support, Marie forged valuable connections with key players in Brazil’s art preservation ecosystem—relationships that would have been challenging to establish on her own.

For MATIS, Brazil represents both a challenge and an opportunity. The country’s vibrant art market and the growing need for innovative conservation tools provide fertile ground for testing and adapting their technology. During her second visit, Marie deepened partnerships and began working on pilot projects, including collaborations with key institutions like the Museum of Art in São Paulo.

“We’re focusing on tailoring our technology to local needs and building relationships with meaningful stakeholders,” Marie explains. “The goal over the next five months is to complete several important projects that will solidify our presence in the Brazilian market.”

As MATIS wraps up its second round of engagements in Brazil this year, the future looks bright. Marie is optimistic about the company’s potential to make a lasting impact in the country. With ongoing pilot projects, growing partnerships, and a collaborative spirit, MATIS is poised to redefine art conservation in Brazil.

The full interview with Marie Didier dives deeper into her experiences, challenges, and advice for startups considering Brazil. Read on to learn more about her inspiring journey!

1. Introduce yourself and your startup (and your startup stage).

“I’m Marie Didier, CEO of MATIS, a Swiss startup transforming art assessment and conservation through advanced multispectral imaging and AI. We’re in the go-to-market stage, focusing on testing and client acquisition with our first finalized product this month.”

2. Why is MATIS interested in Brazil?

“Brazil has a rich cultural heritage and a growing need for innovative art preservation tools. Its vibrant art market presents an exciting opportunity for MATIS to make a meaningful impact.”

3. What are your prospects for bringing your solution to the Brazilian market?

“We see strong potential with ongoing pilot projects like those at the Museum of Art in São Paulo. Our next steps include deepening partnerships and tailoring our technology to local needs. My goal for these next 5 months is to conduct to completion different projects and discussions we have with meaningful stakeholders there.” 

4. How is your partnership with Swissnex?

“Swissnex has been crucial, from market insights in the MVC to direct engagement during the MEC. Their network has accelerated our progress in Brazil without them, talking and meeting the important stakeholders in this specific market would have been impossible. Moreover they offer a place to work where to feel at home!”

5. What surprised you about Brazil?

“The openness to innovation and collaboration. Brazil’s proactive approach to preserving its incredible cultural heritage exceeded my expectations.”

6. Any advice for startups considering Brazil?

“Brazil is full of opportunities for adaptable, innovative solutions. Partnering with organizations like Swissnex can make your entry much smoother. Be ready to learn and collaborate, but keep in mind that bringing a project to completion requires strength, patience and perseverance!”