Key Takeaways
- Twenty-three Portuguese startups showcased their innovations at Web Summit Qatar, highlighting Portugal’s growing presence in global tech.
- The delegation included companies from various sectors, like AI, fintech, and health tech, supported by Startup Portugal and Unicorn Factory Lisboa.
- These startups raised approximately €13.5 million and participated to enhance their international networks and exposure in the Middle East.
- Web Summit Qatar provided direct access to investors and opportunities to explore partnerships beyond Europe.
- The event reinforced Portugal’s position as a competitive innovation hub, focusing on sustainable growth and global market connections.
Portuguese startups at Web Summit Qatar took center stage as 23 companies from Portugal joined the international technology event in Doha from February 1 to 4, 2026. The participation highlighted Portugal’s growing presence in global innovation and entrepreneurship. The startups represented a wide range of technology sectors and business models.
The delegation included companies supported by Startup Portugal and Unicorn Factory Lisboa, with five startups selected through the Business Abroad programme. Together, these companies have raised approximately €13.5 million and employ more than 100 people. Their presence aimed to strengthen international exposure and expand business networks in the Middle East.
Industry Diversity and Startup Profiles
The Portuguese startups at Web Summit Qatar covered multiple industries. These included artificial intelligence, health technology, fintech, agritech, tourism, education, e-commerce, and human resources. Each company presented solutions tailored to global markets while maintaining strong ties to Portugal’s innovation ecosystem.
Among the participating startups were Complear, which focuses on AI-driven software certification, and Criamknowledge, a company developing portable medical diagnostic devices. Other participants included sheerME, a beauty and wellness booking platform, and Move, a digital marketplace designed to support the buying and selling of businesses. Additional startups attended independently or through ecosystem partnerships.
Strategic Value of Web Summit Qatar
Web Summit Qatar offered Portuguese startups direct access to investors, global media, and enterprise partners. The event brought together thousands of founders, venture capital firms, government representatives, and technology leaders from around the world. The Middle East continues to attract interest due to its growing investment activity and innovation initiatives.
For the Portuguese delegation, the summit provided opportunities to explore partnerships, secure funding discussions, and test market interest beyond Europe. Startup Portugal representatives highlighted the importance of physical presence at major international events to accelerate global expansion.
Strengthening Portugal’s Global Innovation Footprint
The participation of Portuguese startups at Web Summit Qatar reflects ongoing efforts to position Portugal as a competitive innovation hub. Support programmes aim to help startups scale internationally while maintaining sustainable growth. The Doha event reinforced Portugal’s commitment to connecting its startup ecosystem with emerging global markets and future investment opportunities.
Source: https://www.essential-business.pt/2026/02/02/23-portuguese-startups-at-web-summit-qatar/