Discoveries

Discoveries represents an innovative four-week acceleration initiative hosted in Portugal, designed to nurture promising startups while specifically championing advancements in the tourism sector worldwide. This intensive program combines structured bootcamps, interactive workshops, and expert mentorship to facilitate market entry and attract investment capital for emerging tourism technology ventures. By creating a supportive ecosystem in Portugal's vibrant startup landscape, Discoveries helps bridge the gap between innovative ideas and commercial viability in the competitive travel technology market.

The initiative strategically focuses on six critical challenge areas within the tourism industry. For small and medium enterprises, Discoveries supports digital transformation tools that streamline operations and expand market presence. Sustainable tourism innovations receive particular emphasis, with the program actively seeking solutions that balance environmental preservation with economic development. Additionally, the accelerator champions technologies that safeguard and promote local cultural heritage, recognizing the importance of authentic experiences in destination marketing and community development.

Data-driven decision making forms another cornerstone of the Discoveries approach, with the program nurturing startups that excel in tourism analytics, consumer insights, and market intelligence platforms. The accelerator also prioritizes technologies enhancing the overall tourist journey through personalization, seamless digital interactions, and convenience-focused innovations. Addressing seasonality challenges represents a particularly valuable focus area, with Discoveries supporting ventures that help destinations maintain consistent visitor flows and distribute tourism benefits across different regions and time periods.

Participants in the Discoveries program gain access to an exceptional network of industry connections, including seasoned hospitality executives, technology pioneers, and strategic investors specializing in travel innovation. The Portugal-based accelerator leverages its position at the crossroads of European tourism to provide startups with unparalleled exposure to potential clients, partners, and funding sources. Beyond the intensive four-week curriculum, Discoveries creates lasting relationships between participants and industry stakeholders, establishing pathways for continued growth, international expansion, and long-term success in the dynamic tourism technology ecosystem.