This week on the roundup: transformations, introductions, odcasts, partnerships, pictures, speakers, conversations, programs, special invitations, game-changers, scientific rigor, nominations, inclusive growth, celebrations, available property, AI-driven customer service, insightful discussions, donations, meaningful activities, announcements, community growth, offshore wind development, success, and more!

But first, here are the IPBN highlights of the week: 

We published and shared an interview with keynote speaker and sponsor at the Dublin Conference, Tony Macken, Managing Director of Daylight.ie, who will explore how biologically meaningful lighting is quietly transforming wellness and performance in our indoor lives. Get a sneak peek at what sparks his innovation in our recent Spotlight Series article here.

We introduced the third panel speakers at the Dublin Conference on “How to Start with AI & Investment Opportunities for Startups in AI” where we will be sharing actionable insights on launching AI initiatives and navigating the startup investment landscape—perfect for founders, innovators, and anyone exploring AI adoption. You won't want to miss it! 

We shared the podcast taken from last week’s online Masterclass on the EU Pay Transparency Directive, coming into effect in 2026. In this new episode, you will learn about the legal, practical, and strategic implications of the new regulations, ensuring you are ready to meet compliance standards and avoid penalties. Listen to their conversation here. 

We reminded the network about our official partnership with the 2025 edition of the ART&TUR International Tourism Film Festival, the largest tourism film festival in the world! This year’s edition will take place in the municipality of Fundão, Portugal, from September 9 - 12, bringing together leading creatives, tourism professionals, and cultural institutions from across the globe. Read all about it and apply for maximum international exposure.  

We shared the pictures of our networking MMM last week in Lagos, Algarve, hosted at the studio of IPBN member Dietmar Goetz of NewsShow.tv! And we shared the panel discussion about the different incentives and schemes to live and work in the region that you can listen on our Spotify channel. 

And we held another Masterclass with Stephanie Prenderville, Founder of SP Consulting, IPBN member, and speaker at the upcoming Dublin Innovation Conference, about whether AI can meaningfully accelerate business results, reduce operational friction, and enable future agility. We’ll be sharing the talk on the Spotify IPBN channel next week.

Next, a few announcements...  

IPBN member Miguel Antunes has decided to get involved in a political project for the first time — and he does so with the conviction that this is the right team to transform Coimbra. "I’m joining Ana Abrunhosa’s candidacy with a deep sense of responsibility and love for the city. I feel a strong alignment with her ideas and vision — something we’ve shaped together over countless hours of conversations, debates, and collaborative work toward a different Coimbra. We dream of a city that is ambitious, that genuinely cares for its people, that takes pride in its heritage, its streets and façades, and in its public spaces, which should belong to everyone and serve everyone." 

On that, it is with great enthusiasm that we can announce that the Municipality of Coimbra, in collaboration with the University of Coimbra, the Polytechnic Institute of Coimbra, Instituto Pedro Nunes, and Coimbra iParque, invites the Ireland Portugal Business Network members to the Coimbra Invest Summit 2025, which will take place on July 3rd, 2025, from 9h to 19h30, at Convento São Francisco. Check the programme here where you can register free of charge.  

Exceptionally, here is a special Invitation from the Canada-Portugal Chamber of Commerce to celebrate Canada Day in the heart of Lisbon, June 26.  Enjoy an early evening of networking, Canadian-inspired food and drinks, and a festive atmosphere as we honour the spirit and values of Canada. Whether you’re Canadian, connected to Canada, or simply curious – this event promises great conversations, meaningful connections, and an overall great experience!! Canada Day Celebration – June 26th – Lisbon. Register here! 

And now...

IPBN member Carlos Justino posted, "For the past few months, I've been pouring my energy into building something I've always dreamed of seeing in the world. Imagine an AI that truly understands your brand, learns from your documents, picks up on your unique tone of voice, and grasps your business inside and out. If you've ever felt the struggle of maintaining a consistent and authentic social media presence, I believe Witfy could be a game-changer."

IPBN member HPA Health Group shared that another edition of RHINOSINUS took place at HPA Alvor, a training initiative of high scientific rigor, aimed at health professionals interested in the most current approaches in the treatment of chronic rhinosinusitis. 

IPBN member Martinhal Luxury Resorts is proud to share that they have been nominated for the Condé Nast Traveler 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards!

IPBN Board member Sharon Dehmel is empowering Leaders to scale with confidence! "From Age Gaps to Inclusive Growth: Why Overcoming Ageism Starts With Motivation, Not Awareness." Read the full article here. 

IPBN member Clubs to Hire celebrates 15 years of global success in golf travel. "Clubs to Hire, one of the world’s leading golf club rental company, is proudly celebrating 15 successful years in business. Since its launch in 2010, the company has helped over 750,000 golfers travel lighter by renting premium golf clubs at over 29 popular destinations worldwide." Happy anniversary!

https://www.facebook.com/100063749640582/posts/1251894566945520/?rdid=71jNSCdspLzyDF0N# 

IPBN member Paul Rees says, "For those dreaming of a quieter countryside life, here's a video of the type of property available Portugal's glorious central region. Far from the madding crowd, this €1.45 million Manor House occupies a prime position in an historic town where the right to hold a market was granted in 1206. Portugal's offer isn't only about beaches, bars and hotels - there is a wealth of beautiful buildings in inland areas where authenticity blends with beautiful countryside."

IPBN member Otonomee shared a thought-provoking interview: "Otonomee CEO and Co-Founder Aidan O'Shea weighs in on Klarna CEO Sebastian Siemiatkowski’s shift away from fully AI-driven customer service. Rather than choosing sides, Aidan makes a compelling case for a hybrid approach — where technology and human empathy work hand in hand." 

IPBN member Elisa Tarzia just got back from Vancouver and Web Summit. "The city is incredible – a vibrant backdrop to an intense week. The best part, though? The people. The unexpected chats, the insightful discussions, the sheer volume of smart minds."

IPBN member Alice Downing was delighted to represent Glandore at the Cork Chamber Business Breakfast in the Lapps Quay neighbouring, Clayton Hotel. "It was great to see a soapbox from Dick White of Breakthrough Cancer Research sharing details of how the organisation uses donations to ‘fund smart and fund fast’."

IPBN member Kelly Dugmore invites you to join other English-speaking expats living with Dementia and their families in a friendly welcoming environment on the last Thursday of the month. Meet new friends and take part in meaningful activities that stimulate. 

And we are very pleased to announce that Kelly is the official sponsor for our Healthcare & Wellness mini conference to take place July 10 at the Hilton Vilamoura As Cascatas Golf Resort & Spa. You will find all the details here, where you can already register. We will officially announce the event next week, so stay tuned.

IPBN member IDEA Spaces is growing and so is their community! They posted, "We are preparing a new chapter for IDEA at Parque das Nações: a larger space, with new features, designed to support the growth of our community. The same location, with much more IDEA. We are moving into a new space nearly three times the area - growing from 1,200 m² to 3,100 m² - to make room for more ideas, more connections, and more sharing. This is more than just a new space, it’s a clear sign of our community’s growth, the ambition we share, and the future we’re building together. More updates are coming soon!" 

IPBN member Green Rebel is proud to announce that their Chief Executive Officer, Kieran Ivers, and Technical Director, John Wallace, will be attending the PWEA 2025 Conference in Poland from 10–12 June 2025. "As a leading provider of marine data and analysis to support offshore wind development, we’re looking forward to connecting with international industry leaders, sharing insights, and exploring opportunities to collaborate across borders in support of Europe’s clean energy transition." 

IPBN member John MacGoey shared, "The latest Roland Berger Global Automotive Supplier Study puts it bluntly: the industry is entering a phase of stagnating volumes combined with intensifying transformation pressure. Complexity is rising, margins are tightening, and traditional growth levers are fading. With structural cost pressure increasing, the study makes it clear that success will depend on the ability to scale automation, leverage AI for process optimisation, and digitally transform core operations."

IPBN member Lazer says, "We’re proud to be recognized as PME Líder for the 4th time! The PME Líder award, given by Millennium bcp in partnership with IAPMEI, honors Portuguese SMEs that demonstrate strong financial health, growth, and excellent management. Thank you to our amazing team and clients for making this possible! Here’s to many more milestones ahead." Congratulations from the network!