Market Exploration Trip for German Startups to Portugal, alongside Web Summit in Lisbon

Portugal has grown into one of Europe’s leading start-up hubs. Its dynamic innovation scene combines world-class tech talent with strong investor networks, a collaborative business culture, and easy access to corporates and testbeds in Lisbon and beyond.

Regarding this enriched start-up ecosystem, the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energie (BMWE) has entrusted the German-Portuguese Chamber of Commerce and Industry (AHK Portugal) and Visionary Ventures with the organization of a Market Exploration Trip for German Startups to Lisbon, within the framework of the Market Development Program (MEP).

Taking place from 9 to 14 November 2025, this initiative brings together a selected group of German startups and innovative SMEs to explore the Portuguese ecosystem, build connections, and identify market opportunities. The program is embedded in the Web Summit Week – one of the world’s largest technology events, gathering over 70,000 participants from more than 160 countries – offering unparalleled exposure and networking potential.

This initiative aims to foster connections between the Portuguese and German innovation ecosystems through strategic meetings and high-level networking events.

To strengthen meaningful connections between the German and Portuguese innovation ecosystems, we are hosting a special networking event on 10 November 2025 at Tumo in Factory Lisbon (see program here).

This day will bring together startups, investors, ecosystem builders, and key stakeholders for a series of pitches, discussions, and informal networking moments. With contributions from leading voices, the event is designed to create a space where the German and Portuguese startup communities can meet, exchange and explore new collaborations.

Highlights of “Connect & Grow – Bridging Startup Ecosystems” program:

• Elevator pitches introducing the German startup delegation
• A panel discussion on “Why Portugal?” with perspectives from founders, investors, and ecosystem leaders such as Unicorn Factory, Agrogrintech, Startup Portugal and Maze Impact
• A purpose-driven firechat “Mission > Money” with leading voices from AENU Fund, Sweatcoin and Visionary Ventures
• A cross-border Q&A session on opportunities between Portugal, Germany and Europe
• A keynote on “Portuguese Capital Meets German Innovation” with Hugo Augusto (Semapa Next)
• An opportunity to connect and exchange ideas over an informal networking lunch.

We warmly invite ecosystem players, innovators and business leaders to join us for this unique moment of exchange between Germany and Portugal, on 10 November 2025 at Tumo in Factory Lisbon.

Register your interest in LUMA — participation is subject to confirmation.

Over the following days, the German startups will embark on a rich and immersive program that showcases the best of Portugal’s innovation landscape. Beyond the networking event on 10 November, participants will explore Web Summit, including visits to the German Pavilion and take part in exclusive side events. The program also includes deep-dive sessions at Volkswagen Digital Solutions, where topics like AI, talent attraction, and branding will be explored with industry leaders. Startups will discover Lisbon’s vibrant coworking ecosystem through a site visit to Heden, and conclude the trip with a Farewell Brunch at Comoba Café, reflecting on key learnings and future opportunities. This journey provides German startups with first-hand insights, strategic connections, and meaningful collaborations, while further strengthening the bridge between the German and Portuguese innovation ecosystems.

Das Markterschließungsprogramm für kleine und mittlere Unternehmen ist ein Forderprogramm des:

Projektpartner