Operation Code: NORTE-07-0364-FEDER-000027

Priority Axis:Axis 1 - Competitiveness, Innovation and Knowledge

Policy Areas:
“Promotion and development of the network of science and technology parks and integrated planning and business hosting operations”
“Support for the creation and consolidation of emerging clusters and technology-based companies in sectors that promote the interface with regional skills and capacities in science and technology”

Operation Name: Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro Science and Technology Park

The community funding contract enabling the construction of the Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro Science and Technology Park (PCTTMAD) was signed by the Management Authority of the “ON.2 – O Novo Norte” on 20 July 2011 at Vila Real Town Hall. The Park is geared towards promoting innovation and technological development in the region’s business fabric.

The “Trás-os-Montes Science and Technology Park” is a joint initiative by five strategic partners: PortusPark, Bragança Municipal Council, Vila Real Municipal Council, the Polytechnic Institute of Bragança and the University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro (UTAD).

The 19.3-million-euro investment, supported to the tune of 15.4 million by the operational programme, will be materialised in the form of a two-pronged structure: the Régia-Douro Park (in Vila Real) and the Brigantia EcoPark (in Bragança). Both hubs are geared towards stimulating effective proximity between the scientific, technological and business systems, taking advantage of the resources available both at the UTAD and the Polytechnic Institute of Bragança, as well as the business fabric in economic areas that are a priority for the region.

The plan is for the Régia-Douro Park to specialise in the areas of agri-food, forestry sciences and veterinary sciences, while the Brigantia EcoPark will focus on the areas of energy, eco-construction and the environment. Both hubs will share specialised information technology structures and other general services. In light of the importance of the wine-growing sector, the Régia-Douro Park will also house the Centro de Excelência da Vinha e do Vinho (Centre of Excellence for Vines and Wines), a project that is investing in technological and productive innovation with a view to expanding the sector and reaching international markets.