There are moments when we know we are witnessing history, and this year’s Web Summit was exactly that. Not only because of the conversations, the energy, or the global spirit that filled Lisbon, but because of the numbers. Numbers always tell the truth, and the truth is simple. Portugal is stepping into a new level of technological and economic relevance.

The 2025 edition closed with a record-breaking 71,386 participants from 157 countries. This is more than an event. It is a global gathering point where the future of technology, artificial intelligence, innovation, and the digital economy is shaped. Even more impressive were the 1,857 investors who attended, representing 86 countries. This 74 percent increase from last year shows that the world is paying close attention to what is happening in Portugal and recognizes the strength of the ecosystem being built here.

The results after the event reinforce this story even further. According to the Web Summit Funding Report 2025, produced by Crunchbase, around 200 startups that participated in last year’s edition raised more than 618 million euros after the conference. This is not theory or projection. It has real, measurable impact.


The trends speak for themselves. Artificial intelligence startups attracted more than 289 million euros in investment, a dramatic increase from the previous year. This confirms what everyone felt during the conference. AI is no longer a distant promise. It has become the central engine of the new digital economy.

Growth-stage startups led the investment volume, followed by Beta and Alpha stages, showing that the ecosystem is not only vibrant but also increasingly mature. Investors are betting earlier, with more conviction and with a long-term perspective. Another inspiring figure reveals that 40 percent of the startups present were founded by women, a clear sign of diversity and a more inclusive future.

Looking at these results, it becomes evident that Web Summit is no longer just a tech conference. It has become a national accelerator and a global projection platform. It is also a reflection of the deep transformation underway in Portugal, a transformation built on stability, talent, vision, and an increasing ability to attract high-quality investment.

If the numbers tell the truth, then the truth is this. Portugal is ready. Portugal is growing. Portugal is leading. And the world is taking notice.