Brazil’s Mines and Energy Ministry and the national development bank BNDES have announced the launch of a 1 billion Brazilian Real ($200 million) critical minerals fund (FIP) to support mining developments within the country as it continues its attempts to shore up its industrial base. The fund’s goals aim to support projects considered strategic to the energy transition, decarbonization, and sustainable food production. The money can be used by small and medium sized companies to invest in facilities and projects eligible under the fund’s criteria. Disallowing large companies from accessing the fund is a choice most other countries haven’t opted for, largely since it’s arguable that large companies with an established production-base could do a lot of good when investing…