Overview:

This project is part of a cross-hub initiative is spearheaded by the Lisbon Hub, in collaboration with a network of global partners. In Brazil, Brasilia Hub, Rio de Janeiro, and Ribeirão Preto Hubs are collaborating to see the project to fruition. The book is crafted to spark inspiration and foster conversations about financial literacy among youngsters aged 9 to 12. Through the engaging dialogues between Maria and her Grandma Hilda, it aims to cultivate and encourage positive habits and understanding regarding money-saving practices. There is a recognized deficiency in the financial education of children in Brazil. Addressing this, the book is a proactive step towards equipping the youth and the broader society for the future. It is designed to instill financial acumen that will empower citizens to navigate and overcome future structural economic challenges, and prevent them from falling prey to abusive financial schemes.

Problem Statement:

Children need to understand the main concepts of personal finance to navigate a market economy and improve their chances of overcoming poverty.

Project Target Group:

Children from 8 to 12 years old.

Proposed Solution:

The proposed solution is to distribute the book in public schools in tandem with age-appropriate activities designed to introduce children to basic financial concepts in the most engaging way possible.

Hub Activities:

As part of this project, the Brasilia, Rio de Janeiro and Ribeirão Preto hubs have adpated the book to the Brazilian variety of Portuguese and made changes to it to fit the Brazilian context and culture, especially with regard to the country's racial diversity and level of economic development. The project team is now searching for a partners to finance printing and distribution of the book to state schools. The hubs have already contacted local education authorities and several publishers to make the project viable.

Short-Term Goal:

Engaging with local entities that help the hub promote financial literacy among children. Collaborating with schools, libraries, private businesses and financial organizations to obtain the best means to support to share the Maria and the importance of saving.

Long-Term Goal:

With the book as a starting point, the hub aims to pique the interest of Brazilian children in financial education, encouraging them to question financial concepts and fostering conversations about healthy financial habits with peers, family, and educators. It is believed that financial education plays a crucial role in shaping long-term behaviours.

Available Metrics:

• # of stakeholders engaged in the development and deployment of materials


• # of digital downloads of the book ​


• # of books distributed


• # of libraries engaged​


• # of schools involved​


• # of children that read the book