Macao’s Technological Innovation Exploration in Lisbon: A Leap Towards Smart Tourism
On a journey that exemplifies the intersection of tourism and technology, a delegation of 17 Macao enterprises, spearheaded by Sands China Ltd., embarked on an innovative exploration in Lisbon from November 11 to 15, 2024. This initiative aimed to align with the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) government’s aspirations for a technology-driven economy, emphasizing the potential of smart tourism and high-tech industries. The visit was not just a trip; it represented a vision for the future, where Macao could emerge as a hub for technological advancement.
Purpose and Partnership: Uniting Vision and Action
At the heart of this venture was a collaboration between Sands China, the Macao Economic and Technological Development Bureau (DSEDT), and the Macao Science and Technology Development Fund (FDCT). These organizations organized the trip to facilitate exchange, share knowledge, and explore partnership opportunities with Lisbon’s rapidly growing tech ecosystem. By exposing local enterprises to cutting-edge technologies and global trends, the delegation sought to foster long-term growth across various sectors, notably tourism and industry innovation.
The Web Summit: A Gateway to Global Innovation
A pivotal event during the delegation’s visit was the Web Summit, held from November 12 to 14. Renowned as one of the largest technology conferences globally, it attracted over 70,000 participants from 150 countries, including tech moguls, startups, investors, and cultural icons. The Macao delegation seized the opportunity to attend numerous panel discussions, masterclasses, and roundtable sessions focused on pressing topics like sustainability, artificial intelligence (AI), and robotics.
The Web Summit served as an invaluable networking arena for Macao’s business leaders. High-profile attendees, including Grant Chum, CEO of Sands China, underscored the company’s commitment to integrating new technologies into the tourism sector. Chum emphasized the synergy between tourism and high-tech industries, recognizing the trip as a crucial step for Macao’s development as a technological innovation hub.
Hands-On Learning at Innovative Enterprises
In addition to the Web Summit, the Macao delegation engaged in exclusive visits to some of Lisbon’s pioneering companies on November 14. These visits included interactions with:
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Outsystems: A leader in low-code application development, Outsystems has gained substantial recognition and achieved “unicorn” status, valued at over US$1 billion. Their platform is vital for businesses seeking to modernize customer experiences, particularly within the tourism sector.
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Sensei Tech: As a trailblazer in autonomous retail technology, Sensei Tech is revolutionizing shopping experiences through AI-powered systems. Such innovations have profound implications for tourism-related businesses, including hotels and shopping centers.
- Unicorn Factory: A supportive initiative for high-potential startups in Portugal, this organization aims to cultivate companies to achieve unicorn status. The insights gained during this visit inspired Macao’s entrepreneurs to explore innovative solutions and growth strategies.
These companies offered the Macao delegation practical learning experiences, highlighting how technology is transforming industries and providing actionable strategies for implementation in Macao.
Collaborative Learning and Networking Opportunities
Another significant aspect of the visit was the Concrete Opportunities Workshop, a collaborative event that allowed participants to delve into innovation’s pivotal role in business development. During this workshop, delegates were encouraged to share challenges and brainstorm possible solutions through collaboration, further enhancing their understanding of start-up mentalities and innovative methodologies.
Following the workshop, a networking dinner, organized by Sands China, provided an informal setting for Macao’s enterprises to forge connections with Portuguese tech leaders and entrepreneurs. This evening of dialogue fostered partnerships and opened doors for future collaborations and exchanges of ideas.
Aligning with Macao’s Vision for Technological Innovation
The Macao Technological Innovation Exploration in Lisbon aligns seamlessly with Sands China’s broader initiative to support the Macao SAR government’s vision for advancing smart tourism and nurturing a high-tech economy. By linking local businesses with international tech leaders, the trip aimed to facilitate the adoption of technological advancements and establish a platform for ongoing technological exchange. This initiative is pivotal for Macao as it navigates its path toward economic diversification and sustainability.
Looking Ahead: Strengthening Macao’s Global Tech Ecosystem
The success of this exploratory trip underscores the significance of embracing technological innovation as a cornerstone for the future development of tourism and local industries in Macao. The rapport established with Lisbon’s tech community positions Macao enterprises to stay ahead of rapid technological changes, ensuring their contributions to the global innovation landscape.
As Macao continues to weave high-tech solutions into its tourism sector, initiatives like the Macao Technological Innovation Exploration in Lisbon will not only foster a smarter economy but also reinforce Macao’s position as a leader in tourism, innovation, and leisure. Through such efforts, Macao is set to thrive in an increasingly competitive global market, making significant strides towards becoming a prominent intangible asset in the world of smart tourism.