Antonio Pargana Foundation and UPTEC Launch Partnership to Boost Diaspora Talent and Entrepreneurship in Portugal

INTRODUCTION

The Antonio Pargana Foundation and UPTEC – Science and Technology Park of the University of Porto – have signed a collaboration agreement, marking the beginning of a strategic partnership aimed at strengthening ties between the Portuguese diaspora and Portugal and attracting skilled talent to the country. Initially set to last two years, this initiative includes training programs, conferences, and cultural and business visits for Portuguese descendants and Portuguese speakers, contributing to a more dynamic and enriching national landscape.

The launch event, under the theme ‘Bridging Borders: Leveraging the Portuguese Diaspora for Talent and Entrepreneurship’, took place on October 24 and featured prominent figures such as Bernardo Ivo Cruz, Maria Moura Oliveira, Pedro Teixeira, Gabriel Weber de Almeida, Marta Feio, and Verónica Orvalho. During a roundtable discussion, participants explored the key role of the Portuguese diaspora in attracting and retaining talent in Portugal, highlighting strategies to harness the global skills and networks of this community to create an innovative entrepreneurial ecosystem.

‍

Key ideas shared during the conference included:‍

The Potential of the Portuguese Diaspora: Recognized for its diversity and uniqueness, the Portuguese diaspora is seen as an important source of experience and knowledge that can enrich the national work environment and business culture.‍
Challenges and Opportunities in Global Talent: Portugal faces the challenge of creating conditions to attract qualified professionals worldwide while working to ensure their retention.‍
Expansion in Latin America: The potential of new Latin American markets, beyond Brazil (with whom Portugal already has strong ties), was highlighted as a promising opportunity to strengthen international partnerships and projects.

‍

The panel emphasized that for Portugal to establish itself as an attractive destination for talent, it must not only draw in skilled professionals but also ensure the conditions necessary for them to stay. “Our size as a nation allows us to attract the best, but achieving this goal requires a strategic openness and confidence in the future,” the discussion concluded.

‍

This protocol reflects the shared commitment of the Antonio Pargana Foundation and UPTEC to building a strong relationship with the national diaspora, recognizing its value in Portugal’s economic, cultural, and technological development. The partnership also aims to promote a future where the diaspora plays a crucial role in creating new opportunities and transforming Portugal into a more innovative and global country.