Choosing Lisboa means choosing to be impactful, shaping an Old Continent innovation hub in a globalization-embracing city. With a rich history and strategic location, Lisboa fosters idea exchange, while its support system empowers startups. Combined with quality of life, deep tech talent and open policies, this creates a unique environment for entrepreneurs to thrive, leaving an indelible mark on the global entrepreneurial landscape.

In Lisboa, you’ll find a city with a unique combination of personality, diversity, tech talent, and available capital. Moreover, venture capital playing according to international best practices. However, to access all this, it is crucial to understand some ground rules: Portugal is a nurturing environment for business growth, not the end market – so it’s essential to keep a global mindset.

The ecosystem in Lisboa has experienced significant growth and maturity in the past seven years. Entrepreneurs who wish to establish their businesses in Lisboa, now benefit from highly competitive conditions thanks to city and government initiatives in terms of creating a favorable legal framework for startups. I believe that in ten years, we will witness a substantial increase in the number of technology-based companies setting up their operations in Lisboa.

I believe the key to success is to always try to stay connected. The more you give the more you receive, and this mindset is crucial when starting, trying, and creating – and Lisboa seems to be the best place for this. With its vibrant ecosystem, people are open and enthusiastic about forming new networks and connections. Our talent is loyal, and our culture reflects multiculturalism, making it the ideal environment to embark on your entrepreneurial journey.

There are many reasons why Lisboa is the best place to start: from its talented workforce to its safe and welcoming environment, it is truly one of the best places to be. However, what I believe sets this city apart is its ‘urgency spirit’. In Lisboa, everyone strives to make things happen – here, people aspire to be the best and that energy is highly contagious. We must continue to broaden the horizons of the capital to truly realize our ambitions.

Lisboa’s startup ecosystem has developed at a fast pace. The past 10 years have been instrumental in establishing a strong and significant market. However, there is still work to be done and numerous opportunities to shape a new Lisboa. Lisboa requires stakeholders with capital, vision and the determination to seize and ride the wave. Whether you work in the blue economy or sustainability, let’s make it happen.

Lisboa is known for its burgeoning tech scene, but we are more than a talent pool: we are a place where people really want to live. And now is the right time to be here: the startup community is showing Portuguese society that entrepreneurship can be a new path in their life options and to be part of that movement is very exhilarating. Lisboa is the home of the believers, and I am one of them — I believe in the people in this community.

I think one of the main things that sets us apart is our talent. In Lisboa, we have some of the finest universities in Europe which not only prepare Portuguese students but also attract international talent. We not only invest in nurturing our own talent, but also in providing a fulfilling experience for those who come from all over the world. Our supportive and collaborative ecosystem, offering ample networking and mentoring opportunities, makes Lisboa the ideal place to embark on an entrepreneurial journey.

We’ve undergone various changes in recent years but I believe the key messages about Lisboa remain unchanged. We have an incredible city, with wonderful weather and a welcoming atmosphere. It’s easy to arrive here and immediately feel like a part of it. We are constantly striving to provide the best ways to make people feel at home. I think that sets us apart.