This week on the roundup: awards, networking, podcasts, the property market, major events, cybersecurity, innovation, development, personalized wellbeing, sustainability and social inclusion, dreaming and designing, digital books, Social Security declarations, pedagogy, colleagues, carbon footprints, prosperity, software solutions, fresh designs, community updates, reports, and more!

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

Yesterday at the IPBN Business Success Awards at the Irish Embassy in Lisbon, we were beyond excited to present the three winners with their trophies marking their outstanding achievements! Congratulations to Cheryl and Graham Smith of Figs on the Funcho, Kayleigh-Ann Myles, ESG of Lawler Sustainability, and David Fitzpatrick and Julie Flanagan of Clear Strategy on their win! 

We were thrilled to introduce our new Executive Media Production Partner RXL Studio led by IPBN member José Nunes.

We introduced a new member of the network, Sarah Campbell of SC Movement Clinic. Again, welcome!

We launched our new networking event in Porto on February 13.

We published a new Podcast with IPBN member Tony Redondo ACIB of Cosmos Currency Exchange Ltd on how to solve currency exchange headaches and tackle international payment pain points! Very interesting conversation with Ellis, IPBN Content Manager, for everyone who are dealing in multiple currencies.

And now...

IPBN member Alan Farrell reached out on behalf of Connect Now Property, an innovative new property portal designed to simplify the way people discover, buy, sell, and rent properties. He said, "We are currently looking to partner with forward-thinking organizations and professionals who share our vision of revolutionizing the property market."

IPBN member Ocubo said, "On January 23rd, Sandra Árias and Carole Purnelle from OCUBO officially presented the LUMINA Festival of Light 2025 at Casino Estoril, along with other major events planned by the Câmara Municipal de Cascais. It was undoubtedly a key moment marking the return of this highly anticipated cultural project—a partnership between Câmara Municipal de Cascais and OCUBO—that will once again bring 3 nights filled with light!"

IPBN member Lee Bristow posted, "Don't miss this insightful interview with Bevan Lane, a leading cybersecurity professional, on the Human AI Alliance podcast. We discuss how quality management standards are becoming essential for businesses navigating the complexities of AI, information security, and data privacy in today's world."

IPBN member BRIDGE IN said, "So long, NHR! It's time for a new start for non-habitual residents in Portugal. The well-known Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) program is now called Incentive for International Competitiveness and Innovation (IFICI)––bringing fresh opportunities for those looking to work, live, or invest in the country. Dive into how the IFICI works and what it means for your move or expansion to Portugal. Here's all you need to know."

IPBN member Alda Filipe's recent interview led by Elisabete Soares for Expresso, Vale do Lobo Golf & Beach Resort announced they are embarking on their first new real estate development in 20 years: The Residences Vale do Lobo. This €200 million investment will see the creation of luxury homes in the exclusive Vale Real area over the next six years!

IPBN member Glandore welcomed dara & co to Glandore in Belfast. "Naomh McElhatton set up a new unique wellbeing platform with loads of resources for companies who value employee engagement. dara & co, want to empower individuals to achieve better mental, emotional, and physical health through personalized wellbeing journeys and resources."

IPBN member re.store announced that, "This year the Pet Festival event will feature sustainability and social inclusion in the form of re.store® pet beds. Sustainable beds, socially inclusive, robust, comfortable, unique design. Made in Portugal! This event is the perfect opportunity to discover how our People-Planet-and-Pet-friendly textile products can help you transform your (and your pet's) daily life, contributing to a more sustainable and socially inclusive future. FIL, Pavilhão 02, Stand 16 - January 31st to February 2^nd. Come and visit us!"

IPBN member SmartHoods said that, "After years of dreaming, designing, and connecting, we are thrilled to announce that we’re building a SmartHoods prototype home, an A-frame house in Tulum, Mexico."

IPBN member Henrique Paranhos said, "BiblioLeD is launched today, a platform that promises to transform the way we access books in Portugal. Now, anyone with a public library user card can borrow digital books for free, just by having an internet connection. We hope that this project will result in a practical way, without bureaucracy and limitations, to promote access to reading in a country that really needs to increase its reading rates."

IPBN member Rita Cardoso & Associados says that if you are self-employed, this post is for you! "Don't forget that you have until January 31st to submit your annual Social Security declaration."

IPBN Academic Partner Universidade Catolica Portuguesa shared the reflection of Sofia Salgado Pinto, Professor at Católica Porto Business School: "I know that we have in Portugal and in the world the sufficient knowledge, the appropriate tools and the specialists in pedagogy to develop what is necessary in the different teaching cycles. This is not the theme. The theme is, what are we doing and whether we are doing them with the necessary urgency." Read the full opinion piece here.

IPBN member Artur Cardoso said that on 23/01/2025, they did the kick-off 2025 with their teams from Olhão, Tavira, Castro Marim and Vila Real de Santo Antônio. "In 2024 we grew in turnover and had 14 colleagues who invoiced more than €50,000 each!"

IPBN member Liliana Domingues asked if you knew that AI could be a game-changer for sustainability in 2025 and beyond. "AI is revolutionizing industries by improving efficiency in manufacturing, logistics, and energy sectors. By optimizing processes and reducing waste, AI is playing a crucial role in reducing carbon footprints and promoting circular economy practices. However, the journey isn't without challenges."

IPBN member Eterna International hopes the Year of the Snake brings you prosperity, good health, and joy. Happy Lunar New Year 2025!

IPBN member Total Expo said that this week, they are spotlighting what Clockwork had to say about their services at Usenix SREcon 2024! "As experts in custom software solutions, Clockwork needed a booth that truly reflected their brand while providing functionality and style."

IPBN member Deemaze Software said, "New year, new beginnings — right? We are kicking off this year with a fresh design for our website. Check it out now at www.deemaze.com."

IPBN member Techies Go Green posted, "The Techies Go Green Community Network has reached 100 members! Thanks to your continued support, our community platform is growing rapidly! Our free platform was created for members to provide all-in-one access to news, community updates, and a space to discuss and ask questions."

IPBN Academic Partner Porto Business School said, "Boost your organization’s credibility through transparent and responsible environmental reporting. In our Sustainability Reporting program, you will learn how to create reports aligned with international best practices, highlighting your company’s commitment to sustainable development. Learn more about this program here."