[REVISION HISTORY]

Portugal research and innovation initiatives

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What changed

2026-08-17 11:06 UTC → 2026-08-21 11:04 UTC · added ~~removed~~

In July 2026, Portugal merged its research bodies into the new Agência para a Investigação e Inovação (AI²), consolidating the former Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia and the Agência Nacional de Inovação. Under joint ministry oversight, AI² aims to manage the full research-to-commercialisation pipeline through a five-year programme, targeting research and innovation investment of approximately 3% of GDP. Officials emphasized that the restructuring is intended to improve agility and predictability without disinvestment, stating “não vai haver desinvestimento”. Academic and infrastructure developments followed. The University of Lisbon committed €20 million to construct two AI-focused high-performance computing data centres—at Instituto Superior Técnico and the Faculty of Sciences—to be completed by October 2028. Concurrently, the University of Porto reported progress on advanced magnet research. To support the broader innovation network, €45 million was allocated via the Compete 2030 program for Collaborative Laboratories (CoLAB) and Technology and Innovation Centers (CTI) in the North, Center, and Alentejo regions, utilizing Recovery and Resilience Plan funds. ~~Strategic forums~~ In August 2026, specific funding mechanisms were clarified. The €45 million Compete 2030 line for CoLAB and ~~talent initiatives have also shaped~~ CTI centers in the ~~landscape. During~~ North, Center, and Alentejo regions—85% co-financed by the ~~Encontro Ciência e Inovação 2026, researchers called~~ European Regional Development Fund—opened for ~~stable contracts~~ applications until October 15, 2026, though 11 centers in Lisbon and ~~an end to precarious funding, while~~ the ~~University of Beira Interior highlighted how diverse geographic contexts can drive competitive innovation. To bolster human capital,~~ Algarve are excluded. Additionally, the ~~“AI Fast Track” visa scheme was announced as part of~~ Alentejo 2030 regional program launched a €5 million contest via the ~~National AI Agenda. Led by ministers Gonçalo Matias and António Leitão Amaro, this programme will provide an accelerated pathway for highly qualified foreign AI professionals, aiming~~ Just Transition Fund to ~~be operational by~~ support R&D in the Alentejo Litoral territory, focusing on agri-food, renewable energy, and tourism. Legislative updates also extended the direct SIFIDE tax incentive regime through the end of ~~2026.~~ 2026, while the indirect SIFIDE II modality for investment fund contributions is ending for new entries. Strategic forums and talent initiatives have also shaped the landscape.

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