European Innovation Academy – Porto, Portugal Last year, 10 design students and a trip leader travelled to Porto, Portugal, to attend the European Innovation Academy (EIA)—a three‑week, high‑intensity entrepreneurship program hosted at the University of Porto. These students were all in their first year of study, studying Graphic Design, UX, and Web Design, and were part of the very first cohort of the Interactive Design Diploma. For every student, it was their first time visiting Porto, and for many, their first experience working in a truly global setting.
EIA brings together 450 students from more than 40 countries. Students work in teams of five, each taking on real-world roles to build a startup from the ground up. Every day focuses on a new theme, guiding teams as they develop ideas, test solutions, and prepare to pitch to venture capital investors on the final day. The results speak for themselves. Two student teams advanced to the Top 10 Pitch Presentations, Three teams were nominated for the $3,000 Nixon Peabody LLP Trademark Artisan Award, Two teams were nominated for the $25,000 Ed Quinones Spark Award Beyond awards and recognition, students gained something even more valuable—confidence, global perspective, and lifelong connections. “This experience broadens your perspective, revealing how vast the world and its opportunities truly are. It’s inspiring to see new pathways for your passions while building meaningful, fulfilling connections that go beyond ordinary friendships.” one of the attendees mentioned in their report. This year, we hope to offer this life‑changing opportunity to more students. Your support helps remove financial barriers so students can focus on learning, creating, and dreaming big—without limits.
Your gift helps cover: Program fees, travel and accommodations mentorship and pitch preparation. Every contribution brings students one step closer to standing on a global stage and sharing their ideas with the world.