Odebrecht’s initiatives in the cultural area began in 1959, when it sponsored its first cultural edition: the book Homenagem à Bahia Antiga (“Tribute to Old Bahia”), by historian José Valladares. Since then, the contribution has become systematic, enriching an area considered crucial for the education and identity formation of social groups.

Projects supported by the Organization generally result in books, but may also generate CDs, painting exhibits and short films. These last products are made possible specifically through the Braskem Culture and Arts Award.

Sponsorship represents an effort to encourage historical research and publishing production in Brazil and other countries. In this way, Odebrecht hopes to help improve knowledge and understanding of communities’ economic history and sociopolitical evolution.

The publications are distributed to public and private entities, such as libraries, universities and research centers in Brazil and other countries.