The British-Portuguese Chamber of Commerce (BPCC) was delighted to welcome a strong turnout to the Hilton Vilamoura As Cascatas Golf Resort & Spa, last Thursday, 28 May for an exclusive luncheon and high-level talk on Portugal’s digital transformation agenda and the opportunities it presents for the Algarve.
The event opened with a detailed welcome from Professor Alexandra Teodósio, Rector of the University of the Algarve (UAlg), who spoke about the importance of digitalisation within the university’s academic and research activity, particularly in the field of marine and sea sciences for which the Algarve is internationally recognised. She also reflected on the university’s current position and ongoing work to strengthen its role in supporting and incorporating innovation, research and skills development in the region.
The event brought together business leaders, entrepreneurs, policymakers, academics and representatives from the wider technology and innovation ecosystem for an afternoon of networking and informed discussion. Guests were welcomed with a networking reception and lunch before the fireside conversation, which focused on the future of digitalisation in Portugal and the Algarve’s role within that national vision.
A particular privilege for the Chamber and its guests was the participation of Bernardo Correia, Secretary of State for Digitalisation, who was joined by Miguel Fernandes, Founder and CEO of Dengun Agency, for a wide-ranging discussion on Portugal’s digital ambitions, progress to date and the priorities shaping the country’s future competitiveness.
The conversation explored the current state of digitalisation across Portugal, the Government’s strategic objectives for driving innovation and economic growth, and the practical challenges and opportunities associated with implementation at both national and regional levels. Particular attention was given to the Algarve’s potential as a growing centre for innovation, with discussion focusing on talent attraction, infrastructure, investment and the development of a stronger regional digital ecosystem.
Read detailed and in-depth coverage of the conversation in this piece by the Barlavento.
The session concluded with an engaging audience Q&A, moderated by Jorge Cabaço, Executive Director of Dengun Agency, which provided attendees with the opportunity to put questions directly to the Secretary of State and contribute their own perspectives on the region’s future and points for reflection. The discussion generated a lively exchange of views on digital skills, innovation, collaboration and the role of both public and private sectors in supporting long-term growth – and even a few chuckles.
The strong attendance and active participation throughout the afternoon reflected the growing interest in digital transformation and its implications for businesses operating across the Algarve and Portugal as a whole.
The BPCC extends its sincere thanks to Professor Alexandra Teodósio, Bernardo Correia, Miguel Fernandes, Jorge Cabaço, all attendees and the team at Hilton Vilamoura for their contribution to a successful, enlightening and thought-provoking event.
As Portugal continues to advance its digital agenda, the Chamber remains committed to fostering dialogue between government, business and regional stakeholders, helping to ensure that opportunities for innovation, investment and economic development are shared across the country and that the Algarve continues to play an active role in shaping Portugal’s digital future.
