This week on the roundup: celebrations, dynamism, nourishment, success, properties, entertainment, honors, administrations, procurement data, empowerment, amenities, digital transformation, sustainability, panel discussions, challenges and opportunities, inclusion initiatives, core values, foreign law, opportunities, urban development, and more!

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

We have announced this week our next Master Class online (April 8) and two new workshops in presence in Lisbon (April 22) and the Algarve (April 29). Find all the details here.

We introduced and profiled Martinhal Residences in Oriente, the IPBN's Official Sustainability Conference Partner and Host. If not already done, register here and join us March 18 in the morning followed by a light lunch to celebrate a better world and St Patricks day.

We published another Spotlight interview with IPBN member and Sponsor of the upcoming Sustainability Conference Alexandre Calapez of Pine Hill International.

And here is a special message from IPBN member and Honorary Consul of Ireland to the Algarve Andreia Viegas. "This year’s St. Patrick’s celebrations in the Algarve reflect the renewed dynamism brought by the establishment of the Irish Consulate, featuring a diverse lineup of events that honour the deep ties between Ireland and Portugal. The festivities begin on March 14th with a Dinner-Dance at the Penina Hotel, organised by the St. Patrick’s Association. On March 16th, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM, Quinta Shopping will host a family event filled with Irish dancing, storytelling, music, and a children’s parade. On St. Patrick’s Day itself, March 17th, Faro Airport will light up in green and the celebrations will conclude with a special performance by the Algarve Orchestra on March 20th at 6:30 PM at the Wyndham Grand, Quinta do Lago, who will be presenting a unique programme inspired by Irish and Celtic music."

For all the info about the events, please contact directly marlene.netomendonca@honoraryconsul.ie or at +351 289 157 353!

And now...

IPBN member Figs on the Funcho posted, "On May 9 to 13 at Figs on the Funcho, our Mediterranean Vegetarian Cooking Holiday offers a hands-on culinary experience. With fresh, locally sourced ingredients and a focus on balanced, nourishing meals, this retreat is perfect for food lovers eager to explore a healthier, more sustainable approach to cooking and dining."

IPBN member Alda Filipe is now heading to Philadelphia for the next Living in Portugal Seminars on March 5th after a highly successful start in Houston, Texas! She posted, "Looking forward to connecting with new clients and helping them take the next step toward their future in Portugal."

IPBN member Aurelien Huynen says, "At Fox Real Estate, aside from presenting you with properties that match your criteria, we aim to introduce you to the region that fits you and your lifestyle. For this second series of 'Discover Portugal Through Local Eyes, One Region, One Story at a Time,' we stopped in São Brás de Alportel."

IPBN member Dietmar Goetz posted, "Great to meet Tim Cole, Director Global Entertainment Awards. NewsShow.tv / LookAlgarve.tv was last weekend at the Global Entertainment Awards in Loulé. So many top Companies and Professionals in the sector from all over the world were at the Wyndham Grand Algarve."

IPBN member Invoke Creative Agency says the company is proud and honoured to be the Event Organisers for Irelands Inaugural presence at the renowned MIPIM Conference in Cannes this coming March. MIPIM is the world’s premier real estate investment conference.

IPBN member Global Citizen Solutions says, "The U.S. administration is set to scrap the EB-5 visa, replacing it with the "Gold Card"- a $5 million direct investment in the US government, in exchange for the Green Card. What's at stake for current EB-5 applicants, and how can international investors move forward? We unpack it all in our latest editorial debrief."

IPBN member Brian Shanahan shared his March 2025 Newsletter. "Tariffs are back. Also in this issue: Critical Overdues - Real or Fake? TermsCheck Update. Procurement data - Is there much new going on? Ukraine: Mineral Control. Country Profile: Georgia. Early Payment - Is it really necessary?"

IPBN member Jo James posted "The theme for International Women’s Day this year is to 'Accelerate Action'. A theme close to my heart! My work is all about empowering my clients to take action on their dreams and goals and build a business they are proud of and be financially independent. It's the last month of Q1. Take action on your goals, and make it count! Read more here..."

IPBN member Gerry Fagan asked, "Why are more families choosing to call the Algarve home? More families are seeking homes designed for year-round living, prioritising convenience, amenities, and a true sense of community. At DDM, we recognise this evolution and have consistently developed projects that cater to evolving buyer preferences. From luxury and golf communities to vibrant city living and sustainable developments, our focus remains on creating homes that offer both lifestyle and long-term liveability."

IPBN member Celfocus celebrated 25 years! "Álvaro José Ferreira, CEO at Celfocus, talked to Telco Titans emphasising how we are at the forefront of Cognitive Automation, Data Analytics, and Digital Transformation, empowering telcos to navigate an AI-driven future."

IPBN member Amarna Vida says, "As investor expectations around Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) continue to evolve, SMEs can no longer afford to treat sustainability as a checkbox. 78% of institutional investors now consider ESG performance a critical factor in decision-making, with many moving beyond compliance and seeking companies that actively drive sustainable growth. Please read the full article here."

IPBN member Kathy O’Dwyer attended The All-Ireland Business Foundation Entrepreneurs Meet-up at The Clayton Silver Springs Hotel last Friday. She described it as "Such a fantastic event with great panel discussions, networking and insightful strategies."

IPBN member Michael O’Hara posted about Sustainable Data and Scalable Growth: Striking the Green Balance. "Join us on March 13th for an engaging webinar (10.30 to 11.30) with Peter Lantry, Managing Director of Equinix Ireland, as he shares insights into navigating the challenges and opportunities of balancing the rising demand for digital content with the critical need for sustainable delivery. To register now please click here."

IPBN Board member Sharon Dehmel was inspired by Professor Elisabeth Kelan's award-winning book on men fostering gender-inclusive workplaces. "Her work reminds us that authentic leadership involves creating spaces where everyone can thrive. When inclusion initiatives face challenges, we need leaders who step forward rather than back. This resonates deeply with my belief that transformative leadership begins with recognising the value of diverse perspectives."

IPBN member John Donnelly was delighted to be presented with the 2024 STADA Values Award for Entrepreneurship. "Entrepreneurship is one of the core values along with Integrity, Agility and One STADA, the four values that determine the way Clonmel Healthcare goes about its business."

IPBN member Vicky Rodrigues posted that an inheritance that occurs in Portuguese territory, may be subject to a foreign law."When this occurs, it is necessary to prove the applicable foreign law through a Certificate of Law. Find out all the details in this week's newsletter!"

IPBN member Krystyna Rawicz says she was delighted to be attending future build in London. "Just attending a presentation on the value of trees and green infrastructure in urban development. Are we treating trees as critical infrastructure - not an afterthought or decoration?"