The initiative founded by FCUP students was awarded the “Rising Junior Initiative 2025” prize, in recognition of its evolution and consistent growth throughout the year.
JuniorAI, the first junior initiative exclusively dedicated to Artificial Intelligence and created at the Faculty of Sciences of the University of Porto (FCUP), has been awarded the “Rising Junior Initiative 2025” prize by the Junior Enterprises Portugal Federation.
This distinction, presented at the “Growth Awards 2026” event, recognises the junior initiative that stood out the most over the past year for its sustained and consistent growth, taking into account project development, team evolution, and overall impact.
In the case of JuniorAI, this recognition reflects the journey built throughout 2025, marked by the organisation’s growth, the development of projects with external partners, and the continuous development of its members.
The evaluation process included a pitch presentation on the work carried out during the year, followed by a vote involving representatives from Junior Enterprises Portugal and junior entrepreneurs from across the country.
“For JuniorAI, this award primarily reflects the contribution of its team and the collective commitment to building a solid organisation with ambition and real impact,” highlights Mariana Fonseca, CEO of JuniorAI and a student at FCUP.
About JuniorAI
JuniorAI, founded in August 2024 by eight students, currently has 29 members from the Faculties of Sciences (FCUP), Engineering (FEUP), and Economics (FEP) of the University of Porto. This junior initiative focuses on developing solutions and projects in the field of Artificial Intelligence, bringing students closer to applied work and real-world challenges. JuniorAI’s mission is to train young talent, create opportunities for students, and promote real impact through technology.