This week on the roundup: expatriates, discussions, networking, interdisciplinary problem-solving, partnerships, emblematic units, enjoyable experiences, line-ups, expert panels, seamless transitions, growth, immigration and investment law, transport, expansion, honors, connections, educational tools, technological solutions, surveys, commitments, integrating sustainability, insights, objectives, strategies and more!

But first...

Check out the IPBN Highlights of the Week:

Here's a special query from IPBN member Dominic Galvin from Natural Life: Naturalife is an Irish based company established in 1997 that distributes high-quality food supplements via Pharmacies and Health Stores in Ireland and the UK and export to Scandinavia and the Baltics. He says, "We are looking to start distributing in Portugal to tap into the gaps in the market, particularly for expatriates who are used to having a wider range of supplements available to them, particularly for women’s health. Initially, we plan to sell online and use a fulfilment company to manage the logistics of delivering to consumers and then longer term to sell through pharmacies and health stores. This would be supported by consumer seminars and events in Portugal with nutritionists from Naturalife and one of the company’s founders who lives in Lisbon."

If any IPBN member can recommend a good fulfilment company or is interested in finding out more about Naturalife, please contact Dominic Galvin here: dg@naturalife.ie

We introduced our new member Source Galileo, represented by Gina Cassidy, Chief Operations Officer! Source Galileo is a European renewable energy developer creating the opportunity for long-term ownership of renewable energy projects.

We announced the 3rd panel discussions and the sponsors of our upcoming Sustainability Conference on March 18 in Lisbon.

Also, we invite our members in Porto to meet up over a casual networking lunch on March 27 at the IPBN Academic Partner The Porto Business School with a delegation of Invest Northern Ireland client companies participating in the Leadership Team Ambition to Scale Programme. The programme aims to develop the skills, strategic focus and relationships of leadership teams in order to achieve business growth through executive education, business coaching and peer networks.

If you are interested to join them over lunch on Thursday, March 27, from 13h to 14h at the Porto Business School, please email Arnold.delville@ireland-portugal.com. Places are limited to 20.

And now...

IPBN Academic Partner Porto Business School is feeling confident in navigating and making decisions in the dynamic global landscape. "The Executive Master in International Business equips you with a set of practical and interdisciplinary problem-solving skills. Download our brochure now for all program details!"

IPBN Academic Partner Católica Porto Business School's Dean, João Pinto, was in India to strengthen and create partnerships with Indian universities and companies: "Exchange and research - expanding relations with SPJIMR SP Jain Institute of Management & Research, the best management school in India according to the Financial Times Masters in Management (FT MIM) ranking, for student exchange and joint research projects."

IPBN member Lisbon Heritage Hotels posted, "Solar do Castelo, one of the most emblematic units in Lisbon and part of the Heritage Lisbon Hotels, was distinguished in the prestigious list 'The 2025 Top 25 Historic Hotels Worldwide Most Romantic Hotels' by Historic Hotels Worldwide. This recognition celebrates the most romantic historic destinations in the world, offering a unique and unforgettable experience to its guests."

And check here: "The breakfast room at the historic Hotel Lisboa Plaza is getting even more beautiful. The entire original marble floor of this space, built in 1954, is being restored to make it as comfortable as possible." We know our members from Ireland who are staying at the Hotel have all only good things to say about their stay! Thank you for making our members' time in Lisbon a fantastic and enjoyable experience. We recommend it to all our members on a visit to Lisbon.

IPBN member Andy O’Donoghue posted, "The Investnet Technology in Healthcare event at Barberstown is now an established sell-out 'Not-To-Be-Missed' event in the calendar of anyone who works in the sector, and they did a remarkable job this year in bringing together a wonderful line-up of speakers, for an incredibly attentive and engaged audience."

Chair of the IPBN Board Geoffrey Graham and IPBN member Chitra Stern from Martinhal Residences held an exciting "Relocating to Portugal Webinar" focusing on where to stay, D visas, the NHR 2.0, and school options. Listen to the expert panel, Chitra Stern (Martinhal & United Lisbon), Geoffrey Graham (Edge International Lawyers), and Martin Harris (United Lisbon International School), as they guide you through the essential steps of making the move—covering the latest visa pathways, real estate options, and international schooling choices to ensure a seamless transition.

IPBN member Tony Redondo says the pound is up despite the U.K. ‘doom-loop.’ "The U.K. economy is experiencing sluggish growth. The OBR (Office for Budget Responsibility) is forecasting a potential increase in the tax burden to 36.4% of GDP this year, the highest since 1950."

IPBN member EDGE International Lawyers' Ana Rita Reis, Senior Partner, presents insights into Portugal’s Golden Visa program. "With extensive experience in immigration and investment law, the team ensures a seamless and strategic approach to every step of the process."

IPBN member Glandore invites you to experience the essence of urban elegance. "Located in the heart of Belfast City, with excellent transport links, we offer the perfect flexible office solution in Arthur Place and Arthur House."

IPBN member Akrido says, "Exciting times ahead! During my trip to Hong Kong, I finalized a key partnership to drive Akrido’s expansion across Asia, including Hong Kong, China, Singapore, and the UAE. By leveraging strong existing business relationships in these regions, we’re set to introduce our cutting-edge crypto solutions to a broader audience."

IPBN member FinTrU had the honor of welcoming the Portuguese Secretary of State for the Economy, Dr. João Rui Ferreira, to their Porto office. "During the visit, Telmo Fernandes (FinTrU Porto Site Lead), Rosalynd Smyth (Managing Director - Head of KYC & FinCrime, FinTrU) and Gael de Belair (Executive Director, FinTrU) presented our Porto journey, introduced members of the local team and led a tour of our office facilities."

IPBN member Invoke Creative Agency says, "Dublin is seeing a surge in immersive and experiential social spaces—venues that blend entertainment, technology, and hospitality to create new ways to connect. From Sigmoid Golf HQ and Pitch to Flight Club and Super Social, these spots are redefining how we meet, play, and unwind. But what does this shift mean for the city?"

IPBN member IDEA Spaces' team took an important step in its sustainability journey! "Yesterday, we had a training session with our member & partner IMPACT LABS.earth, on Climate Fresk, an educational tool that helped us better understand climate change and our collective responsibility in building a more sustainable future. We are excited to kick off this sustainability project and work towards achieving B Corp certification. Together, we can make a difference!"

IPBN member FinTrU posted that last week, the Mayor of Porto, Rui Moreira, visited FinTrU's local delivery centre. "A proud Porto Leading Investor that has been operating in the city for the past 2 years, FinTrU focuses on the development of technological solutions for investment banks around the world. With a team of over 220 people, the company plans to expand its operations in the city and reach 500 employees in 2028."

IPBN member Liliana Domingues invited CEOs to talk. "Business today isn’t just complex—it’s volatile. Most companies say they’re resilient. But how many are actually prepared for what’s next? A FERMA–McKinsey survey found that 60% of executives believe their companies are resilient—yet half rarely use data-driven scenario planning in decision-making. That’s a blind spot you can’t afford. Read the report."

IPBN member WEbrand Agency has renewed image and a more intuitive experience! "The new website we developed for our client reflects what has always defined them, rigor, trust, and proximity. Since 1985, they have accompanied companies with the commitment to be accountable and create solutions that make a difference. Now, this commitment gains a new online space, more modern and accessible. Do you want to give a new life to your company's digital presence? Talk to us!"

IPBN member Sam Marchetti is hosting a free 45-min workshop on March 6, from 12h30 to 13h15, on Sustainable Enterprise for SMEs! Learn to integrate sustainability and stay competitive with Sam Marchetti by registering now!

IPBN Board member Mario Gago loves having the opportunity to share learnings from his experience at Pink Room. Join him on Saturday morning at Be Insight!

IPBN member Celfocus is happy to share another edition of “Leadership Connect”, an event to discuss objectives, strategies, and so much more!