New data from the DGEEC (Directorate-General for Statistics of Education and Science) confirms that corporate innovation in Portugal reached a major milestone in 2024. Total business spending on research and development hit €3.162 billion, marking a significant 11% increase over the previous year.
The IPCTN24 Ranking: NOS at the Top
For the seventh consecutive year, NOS has secured its position as the country's top private investor in R&D. The telecommunications leader invested €111.6 million in 2024 alone—a 15% jump compared to 2023.
According to the latest technology news updates, this investment is a "sustained strategic decision" that has kept the company in the top three national innovators since 2018.
Strategic Focus: AI, Data, and 5G
The NOS R&D investment 2024 was primarily directed toward cutting-edge sectors that are redefining the digital landscape:
- Artificial Intelligence & Data Science: Building smarter network operations.
- Next-Generation Networks: Advancing 5G and future connectivity.
- Cloud & Cybersecurity: Ensuring robust digital infrastructure for enterprise clients.
According to devs.com.pt, the IPCTN24 ranking NOS Portugal success is also driven by a growing team, with the company increasing its specialized R&D staff to 355 professionals last year.
A Growing Innovation Ecosystem
The Portugal business R&D growth 2024 report shows that innovation is now equal to 1.09% of the national GDP. Following NOS in the rankings are other major players:
- EDP Group: €80.2 million
- Sonae Group: €78.7 million
- Meo: €75.9 million
Geographically, innovation remains concentrated in Greater Lisbon (40%) and the Northern region (36%), with the IT, energy, and distribution sectors leading the charge.
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