At Web Summit Qatar 2025, cities from around the world are showcasing their contributions to the global innovation landscape. Among them is Lisbon, represented by Margarida Figueiredo, General Director for Economy and Innovation of the city of Lisbon. With a strong focus on supporting startups, fostering innovation, and creating international business opportunities, Lisbon continues to position itself as one of Europe’s top entrepreneurial hubs.
Lisbon’s Mission at Web Summit Qatar
Lisbon’s presence at Web Summit Qatar underscores its commitment to international collaboration. “We are here to promote our city and the startups that we bring with us,” Figueiredo explained. “We have brought around 20 startups to help them scale internationally and go global.”
Lisbon provides an ideal business environment with comprehensive support programs tailored to startups at different stages of growth. “We offer early-stage incubation as well as scale-up programs, helping startups transition into globally competitive companies,” she shared.
A key pillar of Lisbon’s innovation strategy is the Unicorn Factory, an initiative designed to support startups in scaling and expanding beyond national borders. “For us, it’s crucial to assist startups—whether Portuguese or international—in growing, scaling, and achieving global reach.”
The Secret to Lisbon’s Startup Success
Lisbon’s thriving startup ecosystem is a result of strategic planning and collaboration. “Lisbon has the perfect size—not too big, not too small,” Figueiredo noted. “This allows for strong networking, easy collaboration, and a supportive environment.”
Key factors driving Lisbon’s innovation boom include:
- Over 100 co-working spaces and 50+ incubators, many specializing in vertical markets.
- A welcoming and diverse community, attracting international talent.
- A strong economy in tourism, AI, Web3, and gaming, ensuring business sustainability.
- A talent retention strategy, ensuring that both local and international professionals thrive in the city.
Lisbon was also named European Capital of Innovation in 2023, further solidifying its position as a leading tech and business hub.
The Significance of Web Summit Expansion to Qatar
Lisbon is home to Web Summit’s flagship event, which has grown into one of the world’s most influential technology conferences. The expansion to Doha marks an important step in bridging innovation between Europe and the Middle East.
“Web Summit Lisbon is unique, attracting people from all over the world—investors, startups, and major corporations,” Figueiredo explained. “Web Summit Doha, on the other hand, offers a different market and different opportunities that complement what we already have in Lisbon.”
For Lisbon, expanding connections with Qatar and the wider GCC region presents exciting new opportunities. “This market is important for us—it allows our startups to explore potential investments, set up operations, and engage with a new cultural and economic landscape.”
Why Startups and Investors Should Consider Lisbon
Lisbon is not only a startup-friendly city but also a gateway to European and global markets. “If you’re an entrepreneur, investor, or corporate leader, my message is simple: Welcome to Lisbon!“
The city offers:
- Support programs for startups of all stages.
- Bridges to venture capital firms (VCs) and financial networks.
- A strong ecosystem that connects entrepreneurs, investors, and government entities.
- A high quality of life, affordable business costs, and a vibrant tech culture.
“The city itself does not provide direct financing, but we connect startups with investors and help them secure funding. We are here to facilitate business growth and provide the right resources,” Figueiredo emphasized.
Looking Ahead: A Global Vision for Lisbon
As Lisbon strengthens its position as a global innovation hub, its participation in Web Summit Qatar serves as a strategic move toward deeper international engagement. The city’s focus remains on helping startups scale, attracting international talent, and fostering economic expansion beyond tourism.
With initiatives like Unicorn Factory and an expanding network of incubators, Lisbon continues to shape the future of innovation and entrepreneurship—not just in Europe, but worldwide. As Figueiredo summed it up, “Please come to Lisbon—to our sunshine, our vibrant ecosystem, and our incredible network of people and opportunities!”
