Municipality of Fundão

The municipality of Fundão, located in the Centre region, occupies an area of approximately 700 Km2, with 26.503 inhabitants and a population density of 38 inhabitants/km². The territory is composed by multiple landscapes and geographic, historical, cultural, natural, and architectonic contexts, reflecting a valuable cultural and physical heritage. Located in a low population density territory, year after year, we witness a growing depopulation, resulting from a negative natural balance and the continued emigration of young people. As a result, it is difficult to attract investment to a region where there is a shortage of labour. Thus, since 2012, the Municipality decided to invest in a smart territorial innovation strategy, aiming to boost the economic transformation of the municipality and region. This strategy intended to act decisively in all factors that contribute to the territory competitiveness, to attract and retain people through investment, innovation, and qualified employment, in a city capable of providing excellent life quality levels. Today, Fundão has a positive migratory balance, with people of 70 different nationalities, and is on the investors and entrepreneurs’ radar. The need to continue this strategy, in a sustained and integrated way, aiming to consolidate Fundão as a welcoming land is crucial.