Leonel Guerreiro: Digital Innovation is Key for SMEs in the Global Market

Leonel António Guerreiro, President of the Setúbal – Lisbon delegation of the France-Portugal Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCIFP), is the main organizer of the International Forum for SMEs – Digital Services and Solutions, scheduled for February 2025. This event, focused on empowering and internationalizing Portuguese small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), aims to create tangible growth opportunities through digital technology and international networking.

Leonel Guerreiro, a businessman with 27 years of experience, has been an active advocate for strengthening economic relations between Portugal and France. In an interview with Empreendedor, he highlighted the importance of the event as a turning point for SMEs:
“The goal is to provide small and medium-sized enterprises with three major opportunities: to learn, find new partners, and open doors to international markets through digital solutions.”

An Event Designed for SME Growth

The International Forum, scheduled for February 21 and 22, 2025, will take place at the Pestana Palace Hotel. It will feature two intensive days of workshops, conferences, and networking.

The event is structured around three main pillars, according to Leonel Guerreiro:

• Empowerment and Learning through specialized workshops and conferences.
  
• Impactful Networking, with 25 exhibitors showcasing innovative solutions and strategic partnerships.
  
• Access to International Markets, with the presence of international entrepreneurs and experts to help SMEs connect with new clients and suppliers.
  

“We want our SMEs to leave this event with practical solutions, concrete partnerships, and new ideas to expand their businesses. This is also an opportunity for small companies with great expertise to project themselves beyond borders,” emphasized Leonel Guerreiro.

Digital as a Catalyst for International Success

For Leonel Guerreiro, investing in digital technology is both inevitable and a unique opportunity for smaller companies to position themselves in the global market. “Digital technology simplifies processes, improves communication, and, above all, makes internationalization more accessible. We want Portuguese SMEs to fully harness this potential,” explained the leader of the Setúbal – Lisbon delegation of the CCIFP.


The International Forum marks the first step in a broader strategy to strengthen economic ties between Portugal and France. In 2026, the CCIFP plans to offer Portuguese SMEs concrete opportunities at French events, such as the Paris Real Estate Fair and initiatives connected to the Paris Olympic Games.

“We are building bridges between the two countries, creating real opportunities for our companies. France is a dynamic market full of possibilities for Portuguese SMEs that are ready to innovate and grow,” concluded Leonel Guerreiro.

The organization of the International Forum 2025 reflects CCIFP's commitment to supporting Portuguese businesses. Through innovative initiatives and a global network of contacts, the Setúbal – Lisbon delegation continues to create opportunities for SMEs to thrive in an increasingly competitive market.

The International Forum 2025 will take place on February 21-22, 2025, at the Pestana Palace Hotel in Lisbon. Registration is available at https://www.ccifp.pt/forum-visiteurs.