In Portugal, 22% of startups have embraced the use of blockchain technology which is in line with the general adoption of advanced technologies in the Iberian Peninsula. Blockchain has emerged as a dominant force in fields such as finance, logistics, healthcare and technology.
The Portuguese financial sector is the biggest beneficiary with 76% of fintech investments being channelled towards blockchain and crypto. The National Blockchain Strategy also targets the transformation of the agricultural, insurance and legal sectors.
Lisbon continues to be the main technological hub, however, other cities such as Porto and Braga are becoming important actors in the technological ecosystem and thus contributing to the development of a more distributed innovation system.
The EmprendeXXI Awards show that blockchain, together with deep tech and AI, is propelling the growth of startups. Thanks to public and private funding of innovation, Portugal is now an attractive place for the implementation of blockchain-based startups. This trend strengthens Portugal’s position as a key player in digital change management all across Europe.