The event, held on October 21st, gathered dozens of companies from the region to learn about projects, laboratories, and researchers at the Faculty of Sciences and Technology of the Universidade Nova de Lisboa (NOVA FCT). Under the theme “Science, technology, and partnerships for a more competitive future”, the initiative sought to strengthen ties between the academic environment and the business sector.
José Júlio Alferes, Director of NOVA FCT, highlighted the importance of collaboration in showcasing the Faculty's extensive portfolio in science and innovation, noting that many existing partnerships originated organically. "That's good, but it leaves out a much vaster knowledge base from this Faculty," he stressed, presenting the new support framework dedicated to the Setúbal Peninsula as an opportunity for new collaborations.
Nuno Maia, Director-General of AISET, acknowledged the quality of Portuguese research but warned about the need to transfer it to the economic sector. "The country needs our companies to grow in value, be more innovative and export more. This change cannot be made by companies alone: it requires the science that resides in universities," he argued.
Eurico Cabrita, Subdirector for Research and Innovation at NOVA FCT, presented the Faculty's distinguishing features, such as scientific infrastructure accessible to companies, a curriculum focused on entrepreneurship, and excellence in research across 18 centers. He also mentioned the NOVA TechSphere and the new laboratory building for NOVA i4SF as spaces for strengthening relationships.
During the technology showcase, research units presented projects and technologies tailored to industry needs, fostering networking and allowing participants to visit some of the Faculty's laboratories.
“"This initiative is excellent and the visit was important to better understand what NOVA FCT is already doing."
“"It was very fruitful, as we became aware of the new technologies being developed here and solutions for other company problems."
“"We want to understand what the Faculty does and what meets our needs. It was very interesting to learn about the Faculty's innovations and network."
The event reaffirmed NOVA FCT's potential as an innovation driver in the Setúbal Peninsula, with leading research, accessible infrastructure, and talent development. The Faculty aims to continue this dialogue with AISET, promoting new collaboration opportunities.
