Startup Samba: 28 Portuguese Startups Hit Web Summit Rio

Back to the beach, back to business! Startup Portugal is returning to Web Summit Rio for the third year in a row, and we’re bringing 28 Portuguese startups with us. From AI-powered HR tools to aluminium boats, it’s a showcase of the diversity, ambition, and tech talent bubbling up across Portugal.

Co-organised with Unicorn Factory Lisboa, the delegation reflects a strong and growing connection between Portugal and the Brazilian tech ecosystem — one that’s been steadily nurtured since our first steps into Rio back in 2023. This year, 11 of the 28 startups are joining under the Business Abroad program, Startup Portugal’s internationalisation initiative.

Some Portuguese startups — like Modatta, Clicknurse, and sheerME — have already explored the Brazilian market through past editions of Web Summit Rio – and have met with success. Now, it’s time for a new wave of innovators to take the stage.

So, who’s heading to Rio?

Here’s the lineup of startups from the Business Abroad program:

• ambi.careers – Matching non-tech talent with top tech companies through a curated marketplace.
• CyberX – Cybersecurity solutions from penetration testing to secure systems development.
• Deeploy.me – AI-powered community platform for UX/UI recruitment and outsourcing.
• Enline Energy – Cloud-based SaaS for monitoring and optimising the electric energy value chain.
• EXO Innovation and Sustainability – ESG performance tracking and improvement solutions.
• iTRecruiter – AI platform finding global tech professionals using advanced algorithms.
• Ghinis Boats – Custom aluminium boats with a patented outboard engine support system.
• PluggableAI – Real-time, sensor-based AI to optimise user interaction timing.
• Sidis.ai – Sales and marketing AI platform integrating multi-source data for automation.
• Smartgolfcourses – NFC and QR Code signage solution connecting golfers, clubs, and sponsors.
• WiseWorld – AI-powered soft skills assessment through immersive simulations.

Together, these 11 startups have raised over €7 million in investment and employ around 200 people. The remaining startups in the delegation are either part of our partnership with Unicorn Factory Lisboa or are joining independently.

Web Summit Rio runs from April 27–30, and we’re excited to keep building bridges between Portugal and Brazil. Because if there’s one thing we’ve learned after three editions, it’s this: when Portuguese startups samba, they do it with purpose.

Startups & Investimento no Brasil

To kick things off, we’re teaming up once again with the Câmara de Comércio e Indústria do Rio de Janeiro, with support from AICEP, to host a launch event at the Consulate of Portugal in Rio. Set for April 27, it’s a chance to connect Portuguese founders with local investors, ecosystem leaders, and new business opportunities — all before the conference even starts.

Find out more info and register here: https://tinyurl.com/InvestimentoRio