Empowered Expands Network in Portugal with the Polytechnic Institute of Viseu 

On September 23, 2025, Empowered Startups signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Instituto Politécnico de Viseu (IPV), marking an exciting next step in expanding the HQA® Program further into the Central Region of Portugal.  

The partnership between Empowered Startups and IPV aims to attract business investment and foster innovation in Portugal. 

Innovation through Partnership

Founded in 1979, IPV is the only higher education institution in Viseu, a region known for being an economic hub and an important cultural center. The polytechnic focuses on education, technology, management, health, and agriculture, and is a driving force in the region through its teaching and research initiatives. 

Empowered Startups, a Canadian multinational in Évora, has operated in Portugal since 2019. This new partnership demonstrates the company’s commitment to expanding the program to universities and polytechnics throughout the interior regions. Collaborating with IPV highlights an essential step for the university and region in attracting more foreign direct investment through innovative R&D projects.  

By partnering with Empowered Startups, IPV strengthens its role in driving economic growth and increasing opportunities for students and researchers.  

Growing the Partnership Ecosystem

As Empowered’s partner network grows in Portugal, so does the number of internationally funded research projects with the HQA® Program. The program invites global academics, professionals, and entrepreneurs to bring their expertise to Portugal, launching and growing innovative ventures that make a real impact. Professionals are paired with Portuguese institutions on these projects, which are funded through foreign direct investment. 

The HQA® Program now partners with over 50 higher education institutions across the country. For more information on the growing list of partners and the program, visit the HQA® program page.