Idea Institute, a new research institution dedicated to advancing technology and innovation,was officially founded in Funchal on March 16, 2023. The Idea Institute aims to position Madeira as a leader in technological research and development, particularly in areas crucial to sustainable and digital futures. The General Assembly meeting took place on June 5, 2023, marking the formal kickoff of the Institute’s activities and collaborative projects.

Our focus areas reflect the urgent need for solutions that support wellbeing, sustainable cities, and efficient industries. By collaborating across sectors, we aim to make Madeira a hub of technological innovation that benefits the region.

The Idea Institute is focused on six primary areas of research:

• Digital Health and Wellbeing: Exploring technologies to improve healthcare delivery, personalized medicine, and promote digital tools for mental and physical wellness.
• Industry 5.0: Bridging human-centered technologies with automation and AI to create more sustainable, flexible, and adaptive industrial processes.
• Smart Cities & Green Energy: Developing solutions for urban sustainability, emphasizing clean energy, efficient transportation, and environmentally friendly urban planning.
• Smart Tourism: Leveraging technology to enhance the tourism experience, from personalized recommendations to improved destination management.
• Fishery & Maritime Traffic: Enhancing the management of maritime resources and traffic, supporting sustainable fishing practices, and monitoring ocean health.
• Smart Agrifood: Innovating in agricultural and food production processes to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and ensure sustainable food systems.

With an interdisciplinary team, the Idea Institute seeks to address real-world challenges, foster cross-sector collaborations, and stimulate economic growth in Madeira through innovation.