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Rocket Booster is a flagship innovation program connecting startups, corporates and investors to build, test and scale solutions for the future of tourism.
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Open Call Until: 31st March, 2026
A single platform. Two powerful programs.
Rocket Booster is an innovation initiative promoted by PCI – Creative Science Park Aveiro
Region, in partnership with startUP23,with the support of Turismo de Portugal.
Designed to strengthen the tourism innovation ecosystem, Rocket Booster operates through two
complementary programs — Acceleration and Open Innovation — connecting startups,
corporates, investors and mentors around real challenges and real impact.
A high-intensity 2 months acceleration program for startups looking to validate, enter the market and prepare for investment.
Hands-on mentoring with experts and mentors
Structured bootcamps focused on market, product and business
Direct access to investors and funding readiness
Workshop – Mentoring – Investment Readiness
A corporate-startup collaboration program focused on solving real industry challenges through pilots and co-creation.
Access to real challenges from tourism companies
Co-design and pilot implementation
Agile project management and impact tracking
Clear path from pilot to deployment
Discovery – Pilot Design – Pilot Dev
Seamless Experience
The “Seamless Experience” vertical addresses the growing need to rethink the tourist journey — from inspiration to post-trip — with a focus on personalization, integration and frictionless
interactions.
Topics:
Our partners play a crucial role in the success of the Rocket Booster program.
With their diverse skills and expertise, they help us offer a well-rounded and dynamic experience to the startups. We are proud to collaborate with the following organizations:
Turismo de Portugal is a key partner. Their deep industry knowledge and networks have been instrumental in shaping the program and providing a platform for our startups.
The program is promoted by PCI · Creative Science Park – Aveiro Region, through the Universidade de Aveiro Incubator, which brings a wealth of experience in supporting innovative and technological projects with high growth potential.
startUP23 helps startups through ideation and acceleration programs and contributes to the Rocket Booster Program by sharing its expertise in startup acceleration and investment.
Whether you’re part of the international ecosystem or from the heart of Portugal, Rocket Booster program welcomes all innovative startups within the tourism sector that are eager to take their businesses to new heights.
For startups with a validated or looking to validate product or early traction looking to scale, access strategic partners and close first investment rounds.
For organizations seeking innovation, pilots and technology-driven solutions to solve real operational challenges.
For companies with proven traction that need structure, market expansion and investor readiness to accelerate growth.
For experts who want hands-on involvement and direct impact on startup growth and ecosystem development.
Rocket Booster invites all innovative startups in the tourism sector to apply for our acceleration program. We are eager to discover and support startups that aim to reshape the tourism landscape. Let’s launch your startup together!
The startup must operate within the tourism sector.
The startup must have at least one product ready to be tested or implemented in the market.
Startups from any location are eligible to apply, but those from the Portuguese ecosystem are strongly encouraged.
Have a question about the Rocket Booster Program? Interested in partnering with us or want to become a mentor? We’d love to hear from you. Reach out to us via the contact details below or fill out the contact form.
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