STARTUP ECOSYSTEM
Portugal Investment in key sectors
Portugal’s Public Investment in Technology: Driving Innovation and Economic Growth
Portugal is witnessing significant public and private investments in key sectors, particularly in technology and education, as part of a broader strategy to enhance economic growth and innovation.
The Portuguese government has committed approximately €600 million over two years to support the second phase of its Indústria 4.0 strategy to digitize the economy. This includes investments in artificial intelligence and advanced computing strategies to enhance digital competencies across sectors.
- Artificial Intelligence (AI): The government is heavily investing in AI research and development, with plans to establish an AI hub in Lisbon that could involve €1.5 billion in annual investments from public and private entities.
- Fintech and Digital Transformation: The fintech sector is expanding rapidly, supported by initiatives like the Indústria 4.0 strategy, which allocates €600 million over two years to digitize the economy.
- Sustainable Technologies: Investments are also flowing into green energy projects, including offshore wind farms and solar energy initiatives, reflecting Portugal’s commitment to renewable energy.
- Digital Skills Development: The Portuguese government is prioritizing enhancing digital skills through various educational programs to prepare the workforce for a digital economy. This includes funding for tech training centers, as well as educational initiatives focused on emerging technologies.
- Public-Private Partnerships: Collaboration between public institutions and private companies fosters innovation in education. For instance, partnerships are being formed to create specialized training programs that align with industry needs, particularly in tech fields like AI and cybersecurity.
Portugal’s strategic focus on these sectors aims to bolster its economy and position the country as a competitive player in the European tech landscape. With ongoing investments and supportive policies, the outlook for both the technology and education sectors remains positive for 2025 and beyond.
Resources
- Top 10 Tech Companies to Work for in Portugal in 2025 – nucamp
- 4 Growing Sectors in Portugal in 2025 – Mercal
- Portugal – Country Commercial Guide – International Trade Administration
Portugal Startup density
In the 2024 Global Startup Ecosystem Report, Portugal ranks 27th globally and 4th in Southern Europe, reflecting its growing role as a regional technology and innovation leader. Key sectors driving this success include fintech, health tech, deep tech, and artificial intelligence (AI). Portugal’s startup ecosystem has also nurtured several high-growth companies, including unicorns and emerging scale-ups
Portugal Investment in key sectors
Portugal is witnessing significant public and private investments in key sectors, particularly in technology and education, as part of a broader strategy to enhance economic growth and innovation.
Portugal Export/Import Ratio
As of 2023, Portugal's trade balance reflects a positive trend, particularly in the technology sector. Here are the key figures regarding the export/import ratio and the balance of trade for technology products
Portugal Funding volume
In 2023, venture capital (VC) funding in Portugal experienced a notable decline, amounting to approximately €151 million (around $164 million) in total investments. This figure represents a significant decrease from the previous year's investment volume of $1.3 billion in 20224
Portugal Innovation index
In 2022, Portugal filed 1,382 patents, showcasing a steady interest in intellectual property and innovation. This figure indicates the country's growing emphasis on research and development within various sectors, particularly technology and pharmaceuticals.
