Launching Innovation in Covilhã: A Startup Story  

A new project, aimed at researching ways for a cloud-based SaaS platform to detect cybersecurity threats automatically, will be explored and developed at the University of Beira Interior (UBI), thanks to Empowered Startups’ HQA® Program. This innovative research project collaborates with Turkish investor Cenk Çivici at the post-secondary institution in Covilhã, Portugal.  

Driving Innovation Through Technology  

As a Chief Technology Officer (CTO) with a strong background in startups and digital commerce, Cenk Çivici specializes in scalable and fault-tolerant architecture. He’s spent his career leading technical initiatives, initiating data architecture evolution, and growing tech teams internationally.  

With his new research project, in partnership with UBI, Çivici hopes to create a cloud-based SaaS platform (a solution that delivers software applications over the internet) that uses a form of AI known as Large Language Models (LLMs) to detect and fix security vulnerabilities in software code automatically. This platform type is in high demand and can help developers write secure code without needing security expertise.  

In today’s digital landscape, robust security is critical and constantly evolving.  With the increasing complexity of cybersecurity threats, tightening compliance and regulations, and the growing sophistication of new applications, securing applications for the end-user is becoming harder. The hope is to create a cost-effective, user-friendly solution that empowers developers.  

Partnering for Success 

“My journey with the Empowered Startups Portugal Program began with a vision—to build a research-based startup in a vibrant, innovation-driven environment,” stated Cenk Çivici. “From the moment I submitted my application, the experience unfolded with exceptional professionalism, support, and genuine human warmth.” 

Recently, Çivici travelled to Covilhã, a city in central Portugal, to visit UBI and connect with the team supporting the project. The opportunity to meet academics, researchers, and fellow entrepreneurs not only deepened his commitment to the project but also strengthened the collaborative foundation of the research.  

With this foundation in place, Çivici is focused on advancing the project alongside UBI through the HQA® Program.  

“I was not just a startup founder—I was treated as a valued part of the local innovation community” – Cenk Çivici 

From Ideation to Impact  

The launch of Çivici’s project is the latest example of the relationship between Empowered Startups and the University of Beira Interior through the HQA® Program.  

“Looking back, the Empowered Startups Portugal Program has exceeded my expectations. It provided not just a launchpad for my venture, but also a welcoming community that I’m proud to be a part of” – Cenk Çivici 

The Empowered Startups program aims to attract great people and their families to Portugal, support Portugal’s Research & Development startup ecosystem, and grow skilled employment opportunities for its citizens. The Canadian multinational has pledged to bring over 50 million Euros of foreign direct investment to Portugal by the end of 2027.    

Learn more about Empowered Startups’ HQA® Program.