
Metatissue, a biotech startup from CICECO - Aveiro Institute of Materials, Portugal, is emerging as one of the standout participants in the most international edition yet of South Summit Madrid 2025, the renowned global startup competition co-organized by IE University. The company, which develops human protein-based biomaterials for 3D cell culture and tissue engineering, is among the 100 finalist startups selected from over 4,500 applications.
Metatissue’s technology promises to revolutionize drug testing and reduce clinical trial failures by accurately replicating human physiological environments — an approach that is drawing attention from investors and health and biotech experts worldwide.
This year's edition of South Summit is marked by its diversity and global reach, with 23 countries represented among the finalists — a significant increase from the 16 nationalities in the previous edition. With 83% of the startups coming from outside Spain, the event reaffirms its role as a premier global platform for innovation and entrepreneurship.
Portugal is represented by four finalist startups, including Metatissue, alongside Manie (automated energy management), WiseWorld (AI-powered soft skills assessment), and Ubbu (a gamified edTech platform for children).
The competition also highlights the maturity of the participating projects: 49% of the startups are already generating revenue or showing market traction, and 70% have raised over half a million dollars in investment — with 9% having secured more than $10 million.
The 100 finalists were selected by an international jury of innovation and entrepreneurship experts, based on criteria such as scalability, innovation, investor appeal, and team strength. In this highly competitive landscape, Metatissue’s inclusion reaffirms the potential of Portuguese biotechnology on the global stage and positions the company as a strong contender to stand out at South Summit 2025.
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