ICT
We are witnessing an era marked by the rapid development of information and communication technologies, with access to global networks and markets, which has allowed advances in multiple sectors of activity. They are also playing a central role in the emergence of a new industrial revolution (Industry 4.0), which will constitute the core of a whole new model of economic development.
The differences in economic performance between countries and even between regions are increasingly explained, to a large extent, by the level of investment, research and use of ICT, as well as by the competitiveness associated with companies in the sector in that country/region and the increases in productivity and added value that they provide to other, "more traditional", sectors.
The municipality of Santa Maria da Feira has a number of companies and other agents working in this sector, exploring opportunities for collaboration, synergies and the development of joint actions that can enhance its development and the competitiveness of the entire local economy. The most notable face of this dynamic is the creation of AETICE - Association of Information Technology, Communication and Electronics, which is based here.
This is a qualifying sector of economic activity, namely contributing to the increase of the technological and innovation capacity of the most relevant sectors in the municipality and whose Europarque – Health, IT & Research hub will enhance its development and competitiveness.
The recent launch of the VisioHUB business centre (in the facilities of the former Visionarium) is another successful example of this commitment, allowing the installation of large companies in the fields of technology, information, communication and electronics, in a completely infrastructured and refurbished space, which will provide a new life to the facilities, presenting it as a new and attractive technological park in Santa Maria da Feira.