In yet another demonstration of its core mission—creating visibility and business opportunities for members, the IPBN played a key role in welcoming the Quantic School of Business and Technology to Lisbon from June 26 to 29. The visit was part of Quantic’s global conference site visit program, designed to give MBA and EMBA students and alumni behind-the-scenes access to innovative companies and thought leaders in cities around the world.

Emer Walshe, Senior Director of Global Events & Strategic Engagement, who organized the school’s 2025 Lisbon Conference, reached out to IPBN in search of strong local partners. IPBN General Manager Arnold Delville stepped in to connect Emer with four influential IPBN members, resulting in a highly curated and inspiring visit. Emer was thrilled with the results.

It was a real pleasure to collaborate with the Ireland-Portugal Business Network in delivering our Global Conference in Lisbon. Their support added something really special to the experience — from connecting us with engaging speakers like Mário Gago and Elisa Tarzia, to facilitating a site visit at Martinhal Lisbon Oriente and a beautiful Fado Dinner experience. The team was professional, helpful, and a joy to work with throughout. We truly appreciated the collaboration and hope to work together again in the future.

At the heart of the experience was a keynote delivered by IPBN Board Member Mario Gago, who set the tone for the week’s discussions. As Mario put it:

“Had a fantastic time delivering the opening keynote at the Quantic & Valar Conference in Lisbon last week.
It was energizing to see so many thoughtful people reflecting on what it takes to build successful startups—and questioning the hard truth that 9 out of 10 fail. Hopefully, with more founders, investors, and ecosystem builders asking the right questions, we can shift that ratio in the right direction.”

Mario praised fellow IPBN member Elisa Tarzia of BRIDGE IN, who led an interactive workshop on ecosystem building for startups.

“It challenged us to think critically about how ecosystems function and how we can actively shape them for the better, much like she’s doing most of her time,” Mario said.

Elisa’s workshop left a strong impression on attendees:
“You don’t need to be a founder to help grow an ecosystem,” she emphasized. “We explored what ecosystem building actually looks like, how roles beyond entrepreneurship make a difference, and how the ingredients for a thriving ecosystem vary from Boulder to Singapore, from London to Lagos, and of course, Lisbon.”

To complement the business insights with a taste of Portuguese culture, Fiona Disegni of Fiona French Fadista hosted a moving Fado night for the group.

“It was such a privileged experience to introduce Quantic School and their students to Fado and see the audience from so many different nationalities connecting with the beauty of this singing,” said Fiona. “We shared joy and emotions. A memorable experience.”

The Quantic cohort also visited the Martinhal Lisboa Oriente and learned about the United Lisbon Education Hub, part of the United Lisbon International School. They were welcomed by Prabha Rathinasabapathy, Business Development lead and representative of IPBN member Chitra Stern, who gave a welcoming speech and the Education Hub presentation. This was followed by a tour of Martinhal Lisbon Oriente and ended with a coffee reception. The visit underscored Lisbon’s growing importance as a center for innovation and future-focused education and highlighted its welcoming spirit as a city. Prabha enthusiastically summarized the visit, thanking the IPBN for the introduction.

"We enjoyed hosting Quantic Business School for their annual alumni conference, at Martinhal’s newest hotel in Lisbon Oriente. Together with their coordinator, Emer Walshe, we delivered a successful event for their students visiting from all over the world, who had an in-person presentation by Martinhal’s CEO and Co-Founder Chitra Stern in the Terrace restaurant’s patio, followed by refreshments at the bar. The students were engaged, asking many questions, creating a dynamic experience for all. It was great to share our version of top Portuguese hospitality with this international community. Thanks to the IPBN for introducing Martinhal to Quantic."

Quantic’s site visits typically feature welcome keynotes, executive discussions, company tours, and interactive group learning—all geared toward its diverse and highly qualified student body. With over 150 countries represented, 43% holding a Master’s degree, and 36% having founded a company, Quantic students are leading thinkers in fields like tech, healthcare, consulting, and finance.

Reflecting on the Lisbon experience, Mario concluded:

“I'm convinced more than ever that Portugal is one of the best places in the world to invest in and launch startups. We have the talent, mindset, and momentum. Let’s keep building.”

This successful visit highlights how the IPBN actively builds bridges between its members and global business leaders—one introduction, one opportunity, and one meaningful connection at a time.