European Innovation Academy gathers 450 student entrepreneurs at University of Porto

More than 450 students from over 60 countries are taking part in the fifth edition of the European Innovation Academy (EIA) at the University of Porto, running until 7 August. The three‑week intensive program, described by Rector Pedro Nuno Teixeira as “a very important experience for all students because of its international dimension and the development of complementary skills”, combines practical workshops, mentorship and team work. Experts from leading firms such as Google, Microsoft and Disney guide participants through idea validation, prototype development, market strategy, business‑model design and final pitch to investors.

The event aims to turn innovative concepts into market‑ready startups, with teams presenting their projects to a panel of investors and specialists at the programme’s conclusion. Organisers highlight the high quality of the students and the university’s growing reputation as a European hub for technology and digital entrepreneurship.