Startup Lisboa

Startup Lisboa is a prominent entrepreneurship support institution based in Lisbon, Portugal, primarily functioning as a mentorship-driven incubator and accelerator for tech startups. Established in 2012, its core mission is to foster the growth of innovative companies by providing essential resources such as office space, mentorship programs, and a robust network. Unlike a traditional venture capital firm, Startup Lisboa does not directly deploy capital as an equity investor with defined check sizes. Instead, its value proposition lies in preparing startups for investment rounds and connecting them with a diverse ecosystem of external funding sources, including business angels, venture capitalists, and public funding programs.

The organization offers various specialized programs, such as the Fintech House and the Tourism Innovation Program, catering to specific industry verticals and providing tailored support. Through its comprehensive incubation and acceleration services, Startup Lisboa aims to enhance the investability of its portfolio companies. This strategic approach has proven effective, with the startups supported by Startup Lisboa collectively raising over €300 million in investment from external sources since its inception.

Startup Lisboa has played a significant role in the Portuguese startup ecosystem, having supported more than 500 startups across various stages, from pre-seed to Series A. Its focus remains on providing the foundational support and strategic connections necessary for early-stage companies to secure the capital they need to scale. While it is a critical facilitator in the funding landscape, it does not operate as a direct venture capital fund and therefore does not have typical minimum or maximum check sizes for its own investments. Its impact is measured by the success of its alumni in attracting external capital and growing their businesses.