Applications are open for the 2025 edition of Road 2 Web Summit, a joint initiative by Startup Portugal and Web Summit that helps Portugal’s most promising early-stage startups present their innovations at the globally recognized technology conference.
Web Summit will take place in Lisbon from November 10-13, 2025. Known for drawing tens of thousands of entrepreneurs, investors, and global tech leaders, the event offers a unique platform for startups to gain visibility, connect with decision-makers, and explore international markets.
Startup Portugal, the non-profit behind Road 2 Web Summit, works closely with public and private partners to strengthen the country’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. Its mission is to support founders and ensure Portuguese startups are well-represented in high-profile international settings.
Opportunities for participants
Startups accepted into the program receive a 50% discount on an ALPHA or BETA package at Web Summit, or the equivalent value applied to other startup packs.
This benefit offers event tickets, one day of exhibition space with a printed booth board, access to startup activations, opportunities to apply for initiatives such as PITCH, and additional visibility and networking support through branding, the Web Summit app, and the Startup Lounge.
The experience extends beyond the conference floor. Selected startups will join a dedicated in-person bootcamp in Lisbon and Porto, where they will meet top investors, seasoned founders, and Web Summit insiders. The bootcamp also provides pitch training and guidance on how to make the most of the conference.
Participants become part of the official Portuguese delegation at Web Summit, giving them exposure to international investors, other delegations, and the press. They also join an active community of fellow founders through an exclusive WhatsApp group, designed to encourage networking and collaboration.
An extra exhibition slot and pitch opportunities at the Portugal x Lisboa stand further raise participants’ profiles. They will also have the chance to compete for cash prizes, including €15,000 for the Most Promising Startup and €5,000 for Best Performance in the bootcamp and conference.
The program concludes with a celebratory after-party and, if eligibility criteria are met, also provides access to Startup Portugal’s Business Abroad 2026 initiative, which supports global expansion efforts.
Who can apply
The program targets Portuguese technology-focused startups with high growth potential and innovative solutions. Eligible applicants must be legally recognized as startups or scaleups under Portuguese law.
Startups incubated in a certified incubator from the RNi – Portugal Incubators network that have begun the legal recognition process as a startup may also be considered.
Startups must operate as independent companies, not subsidiaries of larger organizations, and must hold a valid Portuguese VAT (NIPC) number. Consultancies, agencies, and public companies are not eligible. Priority will be given to startups applying for the first time.
Applications are evaluated by a joint team from Startup Portugal and Web Summit. Shortlisted startups will undergo a video interview assessing their team, product, traction, and roadmap.
Application process
Interested startups can apply through the official application form. Applications are assessed on a first-come, first-served basis, and acceptance is confirmed after payment. Once confirmed, startups will be officially part of the Road 2 Web Summit program, which is celebrating its 10th edition this year.
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