It focuses on research in agronomy, veterinary, biotechnology, rural economics and sociology, and related areas. It also includes technological updates for the agroindustrial sector and invests in tropical biotechnology and technological transfers. The organisations leading this process are Financiadora de Estudos e Projetos (FINEP) and Banco Nacional de Desenvolvimento Econdmico e Social (BNDES). There are also state foundations, based on tax deductions at state level (1.5% on average), to support research projects in science and technology. These mechanisms are used in the agricultural sector, especially by universities and some of these research foundations finance R&D projects involving centres of excellence and private companies. Support is available for private companies, scientific and technological institutions, ICTs and cooperation between companies.