“It is a project that had been considered several years ago, and now we are witnessing this initiative finally taking shape. Its importance stems from the region’s need for a structure that fosters development, innovation, knowledge, and supports the agri-food industry,” explained João Moutão, the president of the Polytechnic Institute of Santarém (IPSantarém).
The official further highlighted that this investment aims to address the long-standing need of the Lezíria do Tejo region for a specialized structure to support innovation in the agri-food sector.
The project, named “Santarém AgroHub — Center for Enhancement and Innovation Transfer in Agri-food,” plans to rehabilitate and expand the infrastructures of the School of Agriculture of Santarém, as well as acquire advanced technological equipment.
This center aims to “promote the green and digital transition in the agri-food sector by implementing advanced technologies,” “promote the circular economy and the creation of renewable energy sources,” and “strengthen the link between academia and companies by promoting knowledge transfer,” according to an information note.
João Moutão believes the center will have a direct impact on the competitiveness of the region’s companies.
“It will allow the companies in the region to promote more innovation based on knowledge. We have several projects at the School of Agriculture that generate a set of knowledge, but this knowledge needs to be transformed into innovation. This project will bring more development, more people, and more industries,” he stated.
According to Moutão, the center will employ at least 15 highly specialized technicians, and the region’s companies will mobilize professionals to work together with the center, “promoting innovation based on academic and business knowledge.”
The IPSantarém president also believes the project could help retain qualified young people in the region by creating specialized job opportunities.
“It’s not just about creating more jobs; it’s about bringing a type of employment and attracting highly qualified and specialized individuals,” he noted.
The project will be funded by the Alentejo 2030 program, with completion expected by the end of 2026.
