Leading Investor i-charging wins the COTEC-BPI 2025 Innovation Award

The Porto-founded technology company i-charging, a Porto Leading Investor, has been awarded the 21st edition of the COTEC-BPI SME Innovation Prize, standing out among a record 311 applicants. The award, delivered by the President of Portugal, recognises companies that transform knowledge into sustained growth and international competitiveness. 

Founded in 2019 and led by Pedro Moreira da Silva, i-charging specialises in intelligent electric vehicle charging solutions that are reshaping the fast-charging landscape. The company’s differentiation lies in its modular architecture, seamless integration of hardware and software, and a user-centred approach that redefines the role of the EV charger. 

This innovation-driven model, combined with a fabless, capital-light strategy, has enabled i-charging to rapidly scale across demanding global markets. Today, the company operates in more than 40 countries, with over 90% of its sales generated internationally. Around 6% of its revenue is reinvested in R&D, supporting a strong ecosystem of co-innovation with universities, technology centres and industrial partners.

According to Jorge Portugal, director-general of COTEC, the startup exemplifies the maturity of Portuguese innovation and its ability to compete in advanced global markets. Its engineering expertise, digital capabilities and ability to adapt to local regulation have positioned i-charging among the most promising technological players in Europe’s new economy.

 

This recognition strengthens Porto’s position as a rising leader in electric mobility and high-tech engineering, showcasing the city’s ability to develop globally competitive solutions and attract international attention to its innovation ecosystem.