Portugal’s startup ecosystem exported €1.571 billion in 2025, according to the latest official figures from AICEP. The sector counted 5,091 active startups, which together supported around 28,000 jobs and generated €2.856 billion in turnover.
Technology and knowledge-intensive services accounted for more than 80% of those exports. That suggests a strong concentration in higher value-added activity.
The sector has moved a long way from its starting point. It was initially focused on digital and software services, but has since broadened into more technology-intensive areas such as fintech, healthtech, artificial intelligence, space tech, mobility, energy and sustainability.
Looking abroad is built into how many of these companies operate. More than half have significant international operations, and many adopt an internationalisation strategy from the outset.
A number of developments have fed this growth. Incubators and accelerators have consolidated, venture capital has grown, and Portugal has emerged as an entrepreneurial destination with a growing ability to attract talent and investment.
Talent is central to the sector’s international performance, alongside a strong engineering base and digital skills. Portuguese-founded companies with a global presence, including unicorns, have also helped raise the country’s profile abroad.
Challenges remain. Scaling up companies, securing funding at the growth stage, retaining highly qualified talent and keeping pace with growing global competition in areas such as artificial intelligence and deep tech are all still to be addressed.
Paul Stannard, chairman and founder of Portugal Pathways and the Portugal Investment Owners Club, said: “These figures show a startup scene that looks outward from day one. For founders and digital entrepreneurs weighing up where to base themselves, the size of the ecosystem and its export focus are worth understanding.”
About Portugal Investment Owners Club
The Portugal Investment Owners Club, or PIO Club for short, is a unique investor membership community designed for discerning individuals, families, and organisations committed to exploring and capitalising on life in Portugal and enjoying money-can't-buy experiences and exclusive events.
About Portugal Pathways
Portugal Pathways has supported hundreds of Golden Visa residency-by-investment applications and provides expert guidance through its professional supply chain network on estate planning, wealth management, Golden Visa and tax optimisation, including post-NHR / IFICI tax regime planning, as well as private healthcare, money transfers and bespoke relocation and luxury real estate solutions to enhance life and investment in Portugal
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