The first day of the Web Summit and Ecosystem Summit confirmed what I've been feeling for some time now: Portugal is at the very heart of the global conversation about technology. Invited by Empowered Startups, with whom I collaborated throughout the year, I had the privilege of attending and participating in discussions that are shaping the future of artificial intelligence, data, and the digital economy.
Artificial intelligence was, without a doubt, the theme of the day. Every panel, every conversation focused on what AI means for our economies and societies, from opportunities to regulation, from energy efficiency to value and data protection. One of the moderators captured it perfectly, comparing today's AI era to real estate in the past: "In real estate, it's all about location, location, location," he said. " In AI, it's data, data, data.
But what made the debate particularly meaningful was the balance between innovation and responsibility. At the final conference of the day, the European Commission admitted that the current AI Act will need to be adjusted to become more "innovation-friendly". The European Commissioner for Technological Sovereignty and Security explained that Europe must protect democracy and privacy, but without suffocating startups with bureaucracy. Simplification, in particular in the areas of cybersecurity and data management, will be the first step towards a more competitive and investment-friendly Europe.
While Brussels is struggling to find the right balance, Lisbon is already exuding innovation. The Portuguese Minister of State Reform has clearly stated that the country is ready to become a pole of excellence for artificial intelligence, highlighting the economic and strategic potential that Portugal holds. With more than €16 billion of planned investments in AI and data centers, Portugal is positioning itself as one of Europe's leading technology hubs and as a contributor to European digital sovereignty.
This year's Web Summit was one of the most inspiring events I've ever attended. Between the discussions, the round tables and the informal moments, one feeling kept coming back: Portugal has already won. The announcement of  Microsoft's €10 billion investment in Sines was hailed as a defining moment, confirming that our country is becoming a true driver of Europe's digital economy. Microsoft joins a growing list of multinational giants who now see Portugal not only for its location and climate, but also for its stability, talent, and visionary ecosystem.
Yet the movement goes far beyond large corporations. Early in the day, at the Politécnico de Santarém'  s booth, Empowered Startups once again demonstrated its long-term commitment to the innovation landscape in Portugal by signing a new Memorandum of Understanding with the Municipality of Santarém. The agreement marks an important milestone in the expansion of the HQA® program in Portugal's inland regions, signaling the municipality's commitment to attracting foreign investment, talent and innovation.
Through this partnership, Empowered Startups will support the government's strategic priorities by attracting highly qualified professionals, facilitating knowledge transfer, and fostering R&D projects with local educational institutions. Since 2023, Empowered Startups has partnered with the Politécnico de Santarém, resulting in 12 collaborative projects between foreign founders and the university. This ongoing work shows how local governments and higher education can play a critical role in driving innovation and investment across the country.
Later that same day, I had the opportunity to witness another milestone: a cooperation agreement between Unicorn Factory Lisbon and Hub71 Dubai, a powerful symbol of Portugal's growing international reach and its role as a bridge between Europe, the Middle East and Africa.
Throughout the event, I met with representatives from the University of the Algarve and the Algarve HUB, all radiating the same optimism and confidence in Portugal's future as a sustainable and innovative nation. One of the most inspiring moments came from Omer Wilson, CMO of Startup Campus, who took the stage to praise Portugal's talent, leadership in renewable energy, strategic location, and promising future. His speech electrified the audience – and filled me personally with pride. Afterwards, we exchanged a few words. He told me that he enjoyed reading my articles, and we exchanged cards, agreeing to meet again after the Web Summit to continue our conversation about Portugal's growing global role.
Enthusiasm is contagious, but it also comes with responsibility. If we want this momentum to continue, we need more than inspirational speeches. We need concrete actions – alignment between local authorities, schools, universities, scientists and government leaders – that all point in the same direction. Portugal needs to turn enthusiasm into politics, reduce bureaucracy and cultivate innovation at all levels of society.
Portugal offers something rare in today's world: stability, talent, clean energy, and global connectivity. Lisbon is now a transatlantic crossroads where submarine cables and human intelligence meet, symbolizing a nation that has found its place in the digital century.
I left these events with renewed certainty. Portugal is no longer just a land of sun and sea. It's an ecosystem of innovation, talent, and opportunity. Seeing this transformation unfold, as a participant, consultant and observer, fills me with pride.
The world is looking for a refuge, a place to grow, expand and invest. This refuge may very well be called Portugal.
 
NEWS, Economy, LeadingRE