Portugal is brimming with potential. With top-tier universities, bold entrepreneurs, and a strategic position at the crossroads of Europe and the world, it has the raw materials to become a startup powerhouse. But as Kauan von Novack argues, we’re not there yet—and without bold, strategic government action, we may never be.
Talent isn’t the issue. Nor are ideas. What’s missing is early-stage, patient capital—the kind that fuels startups before they have customers, revenue, or traction. In other words, the risky phase most private investors shy away from. And that’s where the State must step in.
Drawing on successful international models like La French Tech in France, the UK’s tax incentives, and Singapore’s and South Korea’s public investment strategies, von Novack identifies three key areas for government action:
1. Attract Private Capital
Portugal needs smarter, faster mechanisms—co-investment, tax relief, and public-private VC funds—to de-risk startup investment and attract traditional capital. Access must be simple, transparent, and democratic, and include international investors.
2. Activate Talent
Students, researchers, and emigrant professionals need clear incentives to start companies. The State can ignite this by encouraging knowledge-based entrepreneurship, supporting tech transfer from academia, and reconnecting global Portuguese talent with homegrown opportunities.
3. Welcome Global Founders
Portugal’s quality of life is a magnet. But to truly become a landing pad for global entrepreneurs, we need soft-landing programs, faster visas, and seamless integration with the local ecosystem.
To unlock its innovation potential, Portugal must be bold. It’s not just about funding startups—it’s about building an environment where innovation becomes a national priority. The window of opportunity is open. Now is the time to act.
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