Recently, I read an article in The Guardian titled “European universities offer ‘scientific asylum’ to US researchers fleeing Trump’s cuts.” This headline speaks volumes—not just about the growing instability in the United States but also about the attractiveness of European ecosystems for innovation, research, and entrepreneurship.

Almost immediately, an imaginary headline popped into my mind: “U.S. based entrepreneurs look for asylum — What Portugal Can Offer to Startups Fleeing Uncertainty?“. And why not? While this might seem like a challenge for some regions, for Portugal, it presents a clear and timely opportunity.

Over the past decade, Portugal has quietly and confidently built a reputation as one of Europe’s most promising innovation ecosystems. Cities like Lisbon, Porto, Albufeira, Aveiro, Braga, and Coimbra have become magnets for entrepreneurs, digital nomads, and investors looking for more than just capital — they’re looking for stability, support, and quality of life.

As the U.S. becomes more unpredictable, Portugal can position itself as a safe, smart, and strategic base for global talent. Here’s why: Political and social stability in a time of global volatility public and private support for entrepreneurship (Startup Portugal, 351, incubators, venture funds, …) Access to EU markets and funding instruments A well-educated, multilingual workforce Competitive costs of living and doing business A thriving international community — all backed by world-class events like SIMConference, and Web Summit And, of course, the lifestyle: culture, climate, food, nature — it’s hard to beat.

Portugal doesn’t need to be Silicon Valley — it just needs to continue being Portugal: open, curious, collaborative, and ambitious.

If researchers are seeking scientific asylum, perhaps founders are seeking entrepreneurial sanctuary and Portugal is well-positioned — and should remain committed — to welcoming them.

And speaking of opportunity, this Thursday, the Founder Institute is hosting “Meet the Startup Ecosystem: Lisbon Edition“ at Fintech House. It’s the perfect moment to connect with the people, programs, and energy that make Portugal a compelling place to build. Whether you’re a local founder or exploring Portugal for the first time, join me and come see what this ecosystem has to offer.

sign up & spread the word - use this link: https://read.letterhead.email/techstars-portugal

Tomas Metello offers a Free LinkedIn Audit to Startup Digest Readers to maximize their LinkedIn presence and ensure they communicate strategically. More info in his article at 'Reads’ section

ambi.careers is doing a salary survey for non-tech roles in startups across Spain and Portugal; collecting real salary data —no fluff, no vague “depends on experience” answers. I invite all our readers to answer the survey now

SIM Conference is just one month away!! May 8 & 9, in Porto; more speakers confirmed

Better Mobility Accelerator Scale your ideas with Europe’s leading innovation network. Application is open until Apr 21

Porto!! The Open Call is back w/ 150,000 to boost innovation, entrepreneurship, and creativity in Porto! More info @Local & International Applications

After successful editions in Porto, Lisbon, Coimbra, and Albufeira Techstars Startup Weekend is set to make one more exciting weekend in Évora (May 09). Apply here

Week highlights go to:

this Tuesday Coworking AI Day at DeHouse Trindade and Coworking Thursdays @Hubtekk (Porto)

all Startups with use cases taking advantage of 5G, this is an opportunity to test access to a 5G virtual private mobile network and have a chance to win prizes 5G Challenge Meo Empresas is accepting applications until Apr 15

Congrats:

Débora Campos (AgroGrin Tech) named Innovative Woman Award (CEI & EIT)

Tarwi raised 900k

Casa do Impacto named one of the best Entrepreneurship Hubs in Europe, according to the “Leading Start-up Hubs 2025 special report” by Financial Times, Statista, and Sifted

Landing.Jobs has been acquired by Damia Group

Sword Health is listed as one of the Best Startup Employers by Forbes

Startup World Cup launched in Portugal

BEAT Therapeutics selected at Ready2Scale Acceleration Program

Meet the Startup Ecosystem Lisbon Edition (In-Person Networking Event)

Portugal’s startup ecosystem is thriving, offering a wealth of resources for aspiring entrepreneurs. However, many are unaware of the options available or how to navigate them effectively. Join us for an in-person event featuring key representatives from leading entrepreneurial organizations and successful startups, including DIG-IN & Granter.ai's Founders Nuno Fernandes & Bernardo Tavares, VC investors Carolina Amorim and Tomás Penaguião, and ecosystem expert João Nunes Rosado. They will share invaluable insights and practical tips on leveraging local resources to successfully launch and grow your startup. Don’t miss this opportunity to empower your entrepreneurial journey—attend and discover the support you need to succeed! Read more.

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