The Brazilian Development Bank, also known as Banco Nacional de Desenvolvimento Econômico e Social (BNDES) is a federal public company associated with the Ministry of Development, Industry, and Trade. Together with its subsidiaries, it provides long term financing services primarily in Brazil. It finances cattle-raising and agriculture projects; social and urban development projects; industrial sector projects; infrastructure projects, such as electricity, communications, urban public transport, and sanitation; investment projects associated with building skills and innovative environments; and social and environmental development projects. The company also provides financial tools, including application of non-reimbursable funds in artistic/cultural collections and projects for the preservation of Brazilian historical heritage.