This week on the roundup: networking, technology, essential tools, unconscious bias, workshops, inspiring sessions, awards, the property market, collaborations, demos, international clients, leaders, business, team-building, reflections, singing, pride, trainees, recruitment, strategies, and more!

But first, here are some IPBN highlights of the week

We announced the Winners of the 6^th Edition of the IPBN Business Success Awards held on January 30 at the Irish Embassy in Lisbon in the presence of the Ambassador to a fantastic turnout of guests and representatives of IPBN member companies.

Furthermore, we reported on all13 Business Success Stories and Applications we received, summarizing the successes of each member company in 2024.

Finally, we shared a new Spotlight Interview with new IPBN member Falah Hind: Driving Growth in Frontier Markets. Unlocking the potential of frontier economies.

But first...

The Associação Portuguesa para o Desenvolvimento das Comunicações (APDC) would like to share with its members in the sector the PORTUGAL XR REPORT2024. "Virtual Worlds, Web4.0 and Extended Reality offer unprecedented opportunities to transform industries, education, and daily life. The convergence of immersive technologies is not just reshaping entertainment and gaming but also driving innovations in all sectors, including healthcare, manufacturing, public services and cultural heritage preservation." You can download the report in English here.

Keep in mind, the themes of VR and AI will be covered in the 2^nd edition of our Innovation Conference in Dublin later this year.

And now...

The IPBN's new Executive Media Production Partner Jose Nunes from RXL Studio said thanks to the Ireland Portugal Business Network for the amazing moments and wonderful people we meet at each networking event! "Together, we’ll make 2025 an incredible year for our group’s growth! Thanks for welcoming RXLSTUDIO as the network’s new Media Production Partner."

IPBN Executive Partner Ardanis posted, "February may be the shortest month of the year, but in the world of technology, every day counts. Innovation doesn’t wait for the perfect moment. At Ardanis we know that big ideas need bold thinking, the right talent, and the drive to push forward. Whether it's leveraging AI solutions, refining an MVP to validate your ideas, or tackling complex software challenges, we make every moment matter. For more information on how we can make your moment happen, click here!"

IPBN Executive Partner Vellozo Ferreira Advogados says that "On November 25, the RGPC Platform went into operation, an essential tool for entities covered by the General Regime for the Prevention of Corruption (RGPC) to submit to the National Anti-Corruption Mechanism (MENAC) the documents related to the regulatory compliance instruments provided."

IPBN Executive Partner PwC Portugal shared information about the PwC ́s Academy Training: Do you know the best strategies to identify and combat unconscious bias in the workplace? In this online course, the different types of unconscious biases will be addressed, providing participants with tools to recognize them and contribute to a more inclusive and equitable work environment.

IPBN member Global Citizen Solutions posted about Beyond Global: Portuguese Slang Workshop. "Do you know what a fino is? And an imperial? With our talented client service executive (and Portuguese teacher), Eunice Calheiros, we have put together a workshop bué giro for you who would like to learn some survival Portuguese slang skills. This pequeno-almoço will be hosted at the lovely Restaurante Tágide (best views in town, check https://www.restaurantetagide.com/) on 12th February. Breakfast starts at 9.30 am, RSVP to gizane@globalcitizensolutions.com and até breve."

IPBN members Liliana Domingues from AMARNA Vida and Carlos Justino invite you to join them remotely on February 13 from 12h to 13h for an inspiring session in the AI for Sustainable Business Empowerment live event series, hosted by AMARNA Vida and MadeInWeb. "This session, titled Future-Proofing Business: AI and Sustainability Trends, will explore how artificial intelligence is shaping the future of sustainability in businesses." Register here!

And you will find here AMARNA Vida's newly published Whitepaper about Aligning ESG with Corporate Strategy for Long-Term Success! You can download it at the link provided above.

IPBN Media Partner Essential Business posted that the winners of IPBN Awards were announced in their article. Check out the article here.

IPBN member Paul Rees shared information about young buyers boosting the property market in Central Portugal with State-backed mortgages. At last, a government initiative that has the desired effect on the property market.

IPBN member Cheryl Smith said, "Here's to more exciting collaborations and experiences ahead! We are thrilled to share that Figs on the Funcho has been named one of the winners of the Ireland Portugal Business Network's Business Success Award! One of the key criteria for this Award was Sustainability & ESG Impact, recognizing our commitment to environmental and social responsibility. At Figs on the Funcho, sustainability is at the heart of everything we do—from eco-friendly accommodations to locally sourced ingredients and biodiversity conservation." Once more, congratulations from the network!

IPBN member Tom Murphy shared that he was part of Dengun Founders which just finished up with a demo day for the 12 successful finalists. You can find more here and let me tell you the insider pov— what a wild ride!

IPBN Board member Rachael Milne is seeking new opportunities to add to her expanding international client list. If you hear of any companies looking to train their employees for PMP or Scrum Master qualifications, general PM courses, or to be a conference speaker in EU, US or Australia, let her know.

IPBN Board member Sharon Dehmel reflected on being part of the jury of this year's IPBN Business Success Awards. "A key takeaway for me? The power of reflection and recognition. As business leaders, we often move swiftly from doing to planning, solving to resolving—always looking ahead to the next challenge. But one of the most valuable moments from this experience was hearing the feedback from the candidates themselves—how meaningful it was for them to pause, reflect, and truly appreciate how far they have come."

IPBN member Paulo Sousa says, "It is not just business! It is also about sharing our culture, our principles and values, and especially about welcoming those who choose our country to live in and who are interested in adding value."

IPBN member Golf Concept GC posted, "Golf courses provide the perfect backdrop for organizing a team-building event for your community —peaceful, scenic, and relaxing. The relaxed environment offers a refreshing change from the usual office setting. Get in touch with us to know more."

IPBN member Patrick Fitzgerald and IPM Essen to Fruit Logistica Berlin: Let’s Connect! "As we move from a dynamic week at IPM Essen, Germany, to Fruit Logistica in Berlin, I’m reflecting on the exciting work we’re driving at NativaLand, Lda. and Beotanics. Decades of Plant Innovation, Propagation Expertise, and Supply Chain Development – From Breed to Seed to Table. And we remind you Patrick will be a keynote speaker at our upcoming Sustainability Conference on March 18 in Lisbon to be announced very soon.

IPBN member Dietmar Goetz invites you to be his guest on February 11 from 10h-20h at his open day at the NewsShow.tv, LookAlgarve.tv & www.SoundLove.love Pop Up Studio A Concha Restaurant Praia da Luz Algarve! Maybe you like to try out to sing or create your own show. Just come in!

IPBN member Derek Butler at GRID Finance is immensely proud of this partnership with Chartered Accountants Ireland. "We can do so much good here and help support the next generation of Small Business Owners. Please share with your friends and colleagues in the Northwest. It really is a brilliant initiative."

IPBN member Career Training Internships shared that last weekend they bid farewell to their first-ever group of trainees from Martinique. "It was a pleasure hosting them as they gained valuable experience and skills through our career training program."

IPBN member Algarve Staff is "Elevating Recruitment Across Portugal. Reach out directly to our Expert Consultants."

IPBN member Otonomee shared, "In this article, Michelle Cogan, our Culture and Community Specialist, shares the strategies we have honed over time to build a connected, engaged, and empowered remote-first team."