The Web Summit 2026 in Lisbon features its largest Chinese delegation and a record number of Portuguese startups, according to CEO Paddy Cosgrave.
Record Participation and Key Themes
The Web Summit 2026, taking place in Lisbon, has attracted participants from 164 countries, marking the largest global representation in the event's history, according to ECO. Paddy Cosgrave, CEO of the Web Summit, highlighted the significant presence of Chinese companies, noting their growing influence in technology sectors such as AI, energy, and automotive.
Focus on Innovation and Diversity
Carlos Moedas, the Mayor of Lisbon, emphasized the importance of diversity and innovation during the summit's opening. He encouraged participants to use their projects to improve lives, highlighting the city's historical role as a hub of cultural exchange and innovation. Moedas shared a story of a Portuguese entrepreneur who transitioned from law to biochemistry, leading to a successful biotech venture, to illustrate the power of interdisciplinary collaboration.
Event Details
The Web Summit, running until Thursday at the Feira Internacional de Lisboa and Meo Arena, expects around 70,000 attendees, with 900 speakers and over 2,000 startups participating. The event, which has been hosted in Lisbon since 2016, is under contract to remain there until 2028.
Sources
- executivedigest.sapo.pt: Web Summit: Cimeira este ano tem “os mais importantes oradores” de sempre – CEO
- executivedigest.sapo.pt: Web Summit: Autarca de Lisboa desafiou participantes a “melhorar a vida” da comunidade
- eco.sapo.pt: “As novas superestrelas não estão a vir da Califórnia, são chinesas”, afirma Paddy Cosgrave
Prepared with AI from the sources below and our own data, reviewed by the editors before publishing.
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