Portugal launches new trainee and AI incubation programs

Comboios de Portugal (CP) has launched the second edition of its CPTrainUP trainee program. Aimed at attracting young talent to strategic areas of the railway sector, the program is open to master's students and recent graduates with up to two years of experience. Applications are accepted until September 18. The 12-month program, scheduled to begin in January 2027, offers participants hands-on experience in real company projects, mentorship, and technical training in fields such as Management, Engineering, IT, and Law.

Separately, the BSC AI Factory has opened applications for its free incubation program in Porto, aimed at startups and small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) developing artificial intelligence solutions. Supported by the Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT) and the National Center for Advanced Computing (CNCA), the program runs from October 2026 to March 2027 at UPTEC Asprela II. While open to all AI-based projects, priority is given to sectors including health, biotechnology, agriculture, energy, and finance. Participants can access resources such as computing hours, technical mentorship, and data services.