SIM Conference 2026

πŸ“… 2026 πŸ“ Portugal πŸŽ“ University of Maia / Startup Portugal

Executive Summary

The University of Maia participated in SIM Conference 2026, one of the largest entrepreneurship, innovation and investment events in Portugal, within the framework of the TROPHY project. The activity involved more than 50 students from different academic backgrounds and provided direct exposure to the entrepreneurial ecosystem through project presentations, interviews, logistics support and networking activities.

Purpose and Theme

The activity aimed to strengthen students' connection with real-world entrepreneurship, innovation and investment environments. Within the framework of the TROPHY project, the participation promoted learning by doing, ecosystem exposure and stronger links between higher education, companies, startups, investors and innovation stakeholders.

Student Activities

The University of Maia involved more than 50 students from different academic backgrounds, including Business Management, Marketing Management, Human Resources Management and Communication Sciences. Throughout the event, students engaged directly with the national and international entrepreneurial ecosystem through:

01
Presenting Entrepreneurial Projects
02
Interviewing Entrepreneurs, Investors & Startups
03
Supporting Event Logistics & Operations

Students also had the opportunity to network with companies and innovation ecosystem stakeholders, connecting academic learning with practical ecosystem experience.

Impact and Highlights

Participant Engagement
More than 50 students from different academic backgrounds, including Business Management, Marketing Management, Human Resources Management and Communication Sciences.
Practical Outcomes
Student participation in entrepreneurial project presentations, interviews with ecosystem actors, operational support and direct networking activities.
Skills Developed
Communication, teamwork, creativity, strategic thinking, networking, entrepreneurial mindset and practical understanding of innovation ecosystems.
Contribution to TROPHY Project
Strengthened entrepreneurship education through practical experience, ecosystem exposure and connections between higher education, companies, startups, investors and innovation stakeholders.

Learn More

Discover more about UMAIA's participation in SIM Conference 2026 and explore how the TROPHY project connects students with real-world entrepreneurial ecosystems across Europe.

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See highlights from UMAIA's participation at SIM Conference 2026 on LinkedIn.
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