A new collaboration between Portugal’s Nova School of Business and Economics (Nova SBE), Nova Medical School, and Harvard University is paving the way for the country to lead in Artificial Intelligence (AI) research and innovation.

The newly established Digital Data Design Institute aims to explore the impact of emerging technologies and develop innovative solutions to tackle the challenges and opportunities of the digital world. By combining the expertise of world-renowned institutions, this partnership places Portugal at the forefront of AI research and development, with the goal of bringing cutting-edge technological solutions to industries globally.

This initiative is more than just a research hub; it’s a springboard for the next generation of talent in Portugal. The institute’s mission is to support organizations as they navigate the complexities of AI, helping them adapt their operational models to fully leverage the potential of these groundbreaking technologies. The goal is to foster a culture of experimentation, where businesses can rapidly explore and implement AI solutions, ensuring they stay ahead in an increasingly digital world.

One of the key aspects of this collaboration is its emphasis on practical, applied research. The Digital Data Design Institute will offer spaces for businesses to co-create knowledge and tackle real-world technological challenges through “Impertinent Labs.” These labs will act as incubators for AI-driven solutions, allowing organizations to experiment with the latest technologies in a hands-on environment.

This partnership also brings tremendous benefits to students and academics. By connecting top-tier researchers, professors, and business leaders from diverse fields, the institute will provide a unique platform for knowledge sharing, learning, and collaboration. Students will gain access to a wealth of resources and research opportunities, while professors will have the chance to engage in international exchanges and cutting-edge AI projects. For foreign students, the opportunity to study in Portugal and be part of this forward-thinking research environment is an exciting prospect. They may be surprised by the high quality of education and the innovative spirit that Portugal has to offer—especially in the realm of emerging technologies.

With this collaboration, Portugal is not only strengthening its position as a leader in AI research but also opening the door for more global partnerships, helping to drive innovation across industries. As the world moves further into the digital age, this initiative represents an exciting opportunity for both local and international talent to shape the future of AI and technology.

Portugal is proving that it’s not just a hub of history and culture but also a burgeoning center for technological innovation. Will you be part of the future of AI in Portugal?

Author

Paulo Lopes is a multi-talent Portuguese citizen who made his Master of Economics in Switzerland and studied law at Lusófona in Lisbon - CEO of Casaiberia in Lisbon and Algarve.

Paulo Lopes