“Porto establishes itself as a global technology center and attracts more and more investment”

“Porto has evolved from a city with potential into a consolidated technological center, capable of attracting international companies and fostering a vibrant ecosystem,” says Luís Silva, president of Porto Tech Hub. The city’s international recognition, recently distinguished by the Financial Times as one of the most attractive for foreign investment, proves this transformation and reflects the impact of technological growth in the region.

Over the last four years, Porto has earned a prominent place among the European Cities of the Future, surpassing innovation hubs such as Antwerp, Glasgow and Düsseldorf. The distinction in the FDI Strategy – Large Cities category highlights Porto’s ability to attract foreign direct investment and consolidate a competitive ecosystem.

For Luís Silva, this rise is not the result of chance, but of the alignment of several factors: “The quality of life, qualified talent and a strong network of universities has been essential in consolidating Porto as a competitive destination on the European technology scene.”

Porto Tech Hub’s role in the city’s technological growth

Porto Tech Hub has been one of the driving forces behind this transformation. Created to boost the development of the technology sector, the association celebrates a decade of activity this year. Its impact has been notable in attracting investment and strengthening the technology community. Currently, 37% of its 40 member companies are of international origin, a reflection of the city’s growing relevance on the global stage.

Apart from presenting Porto’s technological ecosystem to foreign companies, Porto Tech Hub is committed to training talent and promoting innovation. Luís Silva points out that one of the sector’s main challenges is to ensure a continuous flow of qualified professionals, something that the association seeks to promote through initiatives such as SWitCH, a training and retraining program that enables career transitions into the technology field. “Technological education is essential at any stage of the career path, and we want to ensure that Porto continues to train and attract the best professionals,” he says.

Strategy for the future: innovation and internationalization

Porto Tech Hub’s ambition for the coming years is to strengthen the Porto region’s position as a technological center of excellence at international level. The focus on innovation will continue to be a priority, with initiatives that bring startups, companies and universities together to create an environment conducive to technological development.

Internationalization is another strategic pillar. The association works in partnership with entities such as Porto City Council, AICEP, Santander and the Porto Higher Institute of Engineering to attract even more foreign companies. “We want international technology companies to find the ideal conditions in Porto to grow and become an active part of this community,” says Luís Silva.