Verbo, a startup incubated at UPTEC – Science and Technology Park of the University of Porto, was recognised as the “Best Portuguese-Origin Solution” at the 5G Challenge, an initiative promoted by MEO Empresas. The award granted the startup a cash prize of €10,000.

Verbo’s winning technology is a push-to-talk communication solution that integrates artificial intelligence, context-aware assistance, smart notifications, and voice-guided task management. Inspired by classic walkie-talkies, this solution enables teams to communicate almost instantly, with just one tap, over mobile networks, including 5G. By combining the speed of this communication model with innovative features, Verbo enables real-time operational efficiency, enhances safety, and reduces errors in demanding environments.

Designed for field teams in critical sectors, Verbo’s solution leverages 5G’s low latency to ensure fast, reliable, and secure communication, essential for industries such as logistics, energy, transportation, and emergency response.

“This award strengthens our belief that the solutions we develop in Portugal have the potential to make a significant impact, both nationally and internationally,” said Greg Jones, CEO of Verbo.

The competition’s jury, which evaluated over 40 submissions, included João Miguel Santos (journalist, Rádio Observador), João Paulo Firmeza (General Manager, Altice Labs), José Antão (Innovation Policy Unit Coordinator, ANI), Mónica Cañete Palomo (Director of Engineering, Systems and Technology at RTP), and Nuno Nunes (CSO B2B, MEO Empresas).

In addition to Verbo, the startups Volograms (Ireland) and Amelia Hub (Spain) were also recognised, receiving awards in the categories of 5G Technological Innovation and Sustainability & Social Impact, respectively.

The 5G Challenge is an innovation competition that aims to validate, recognise, and reward innovative solutions driving digital transformation and shaping the future of business.