Portugal can produce two to three global deep tech champions by 2030 if it focuses capital and talent on key sectors, according to the Deep Tech Portugal Outlook 2026 by Porto Business School, featured on the devs.com.pt website.
Future technology leaders in Portugal ecosystem
While deep tech funding reached about €400 million in 2025—tripling since 2018—it remains a small part of the European and US markets. Leading companies like Tekever, Sword Health, and Feedzai prove the country's innovation capacity. However, scaling faces major obstacles, including post-Series A funding shortages, slow tech transfers, a STEM talent gap, and underused public procurement.
To keep intellectual property local, the report highlights six key areas:
- Security & Space: Space, the Atlantic, and defense technologies.
- Core Technologies: Artificial intelligence, semiconductors, and nanotechnology.
- Sustainable Growth: Health, biotech, energy, and green tech.
Scaling high-tech innovation in Portugal
To build a lasting economic advantage, Porto Business School outlines a 12-to-24-month action plan. Key proposals include creating a national financing vehicle for scale-ups, using the state as an initial customer for domestic tech, and boosting STEM talent pipelines.
By taking swift action, Portugal can capitalize on European priorities, ensuring local startups grow into global market leaders while showcasing progress at upcoming tech events.
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