I've gotten one in 24 hours at the Brazilian Consulate in Toronto. Or more accurately my assistant got one for me within 24 hours!! The key is to find the person in charge, explain that you understand how important it is to follow all of the steps in the process to ensure security, but is it possible to make an exception since business moves at such a fast pace....etc.etc. It also helps to have confirmation of meetings with known Brazilian companies.

Also take cash because they don't take cheques or credit cards.

DF