Portuguese startups were the surprise of Web Summit

The 2024 edition of the Web Summit came to an end with record numbers and a significant presence of Portuguese startups, highlighting the country’s innovation and potential on the world technology scene. This year’s event, which took place between November 11 and 14 in Lisbon, was attended by 71,528 participants from 153 countries, including more than 3,000 companies, among them 125 Portuguese startups, which shone with solutions in areas such as artificial intelligence (AI), fintech, medtech and environmental technologies.

The event established itself as a true start-up wonderland, with country pavilions (full of startups) dominating the space, while large companies were less prevalent. The variety of projects on display was impressive, with ideas ranging from smart trackers for cat litter boxes to a scientific version of horoscopes.

Artificial intelligence was, as expected, the most represented sector, with a 16% increase in the presence of AI-focused companies. Technology was accompanied by solutions in SaaS, fintech, healthtech and environmental technologies, reflecting the growing demand and commitment to innovation and sustainability. The event also highlighted the crucial role of women in the technology sector, with 44% of startups founded by women, 1,261 startups in total, the highest percentage ever.

With more than 953 speakers over four days, including names like Pharrell Williams, Rúben Dias and Lidiane Jones, the 2024 edition of the Web Summit set several records. The event welcomed more than 71,000 participants and more than 2,000 members of the press from 76 countries, confirming its position as one of the largest and most influential technology events in the world. Among the companies present were big names such as Microsoft, Alibaba and Bumble, who discussed the trends and challenges of the future of technology.

Inovagaia was also at the event, as it has been in previous years. In addition to chairman António Miguel Castro, the project management team was also present. In addition to networking with entities such as Startup Portugal and Ani, the team accompanied Nemobile and the Sidis program at the Summit, representing the Incubation Centre’s ecosystem with distinction.

The 2025 edition has already been confirmed for November 10 to 13, in Lisbon, of course!