Fundão, Portugal – A Town that Welcomes All
Fundão’s Remarkable Transformation – A Town that Nearly Disappeared
Located in the heart of Portugal, Fundão was once facing severe decline. Decades ago, the town struggled with poor socio-economic conditions, a lack of quality jobs, and limited opportunities. As a result, more than half of its population emigrated. But then came a turning point – the election of a visionary mayor with a strong commitment to community-driven change. He continues to lead Fundão to this day.
Under his leadership, the town began to reinvent itself. Today, Fundão is a place people choose to move to – and choose to stay. The slogan evolved from Move to Fundão to Fundão, the Embracing Place – a town proud to welcome newcomers and build a future based on inclusion and opportunity.
A Strong Network of Institutions Supporting Community Well-being
During the study visit, we had the opportunity to engage directly with all key institutions forming Fundão’s extensive and well-coordinated municipal network, which is dedicated to enhancing quality of life across a wide range of sectors — from housing and economic development to culture, youth engagement, senior support, and migrant integration.
Among the standout initiatives is the municipal housing agency, which regulates the local property market to ensure accessible rental and ownership options – a rare achievement in today’s housing crisis. In addition, newcomers receive subsidized rent during their first years of residence.
The Municipal Migration Center is a key gateway for integration. It offers language learning, training, and support that enable migrants to quickly find employment in the town’s expanding economy. The center also serves seasonal workers and students, acting as a vibrant and welcoming community hub. This work is carried out in close synergy with CLAIM – the Fundão Local Support Center for Migrant Integration – which provides free information and assistance throughout the entire process of welcoming and integrating foreign citizens.
Entrepreneurship is flourishing through the Living Lab – a municipal business incubator offering mentoring, workspace for just 1€ per square meter, and access to ten co-working hubs. Fundão also hosts a Fab Lab that provides training and services in 3D printing and digital technologies, further strengthening the town’s innovation ecosystem.
Support for local agriculture is provided through Agrotech, a municipal company focused on agricultural innovation and forest maintenance. On the industrial front, Twintex – the town’s largest textile employer – has gained recognition for its inclusive employment practices and social responsibility.
Thanks to affordable housing and a pro-innovation environment, Fundão has also become a haven for digital nomads. Today, tech professionals account for more than 10% of the town’s new residents, spurring the creation of over ten tech startups in recent years.
Where There’s Political Will, There’s a Way
Fundão is living proof of how a town once facing decline can redefine its future – with political vision, inclusive policies, and community engagement at its core. This is more than a success story – it’s a roadmap for towns and regions across Europe seeking sustainable and inclusive revitalization.
The experience left us inspired and hopeful – a rare and powerful sentiment in today’s complex world.
This project is co-funded by the Interreg Europe Programme. #INVOLVIM
