The first edition of Tech Foundry Portugal – Deep Tech Edition officially kicks off today in Porto. Promoted by Startup Portugal in partnership with Hello Tomorrow and Porto Business School, the national program launches with 31 selected scientific and technological projects, creating new jobs in the innovation sector, as highlighted in recent industry news.
Market entry support for tech startups
Designed to bridge the gap between academic research and commercial viability, the program helps deep tech teams tackle long development cycles and rigorous validation processes.
The selected cohort spans several high-impact fields:
- Core Disciplines: Projects focus on health, biotechnology, artificial intelligence, and climate and energy transition.
- Advanced Tech: Additional projects represent nanotechnology, robotics, space, and aeronautics.
- Development Stages: Nearly half of the teams are in the proof-of-concept phase, while others have already tested their technology in real-world environments.
Over a three-month period ending with a Demo Day on December 15, teams will receive intensive training in tech validation, business models, and market readiness. Participants will also gain access to investors and a global network of over 5,000 startups and 1,300 deep tech investors.
Science and technology business incubation
According to Secretary of State for the Economy João Rui Ferreira, the initiative aims to drive a cultural shift within universities. By aligning science with the market, the program empowers researchers to commercialize their work while collaborating from local companies across the country.