Build Up Labs

Overview

Build Up Labs is a venture studio and startup incubator based in Lisbon that ideates, builds, and grows digital startups using a lean process. It handles full venture creation from ideation and business modeling to UX development, growth hacking, and social media management, with a focus on web and mobile apps incorporating machine learning and social features. Certified for Portugal's Startup Visa program by Startup Portugal and IAPMEI, it supports early-stage startups through mentorship, partnerships, investment access, and networking.

History

Founded in 2014 in Lisbon, Portugal, Build Up Labs began as a startup studio creating and scaling digital ventures in parallel. In 2020, it launched its incubator program to assist early-stage startups. The company achieved 5 successful exits, including the 2023 acquisition of Tap My Back by a Texas-based firm. It has operated as a certified incubator for international entrepreneurs via Portugal's Startup Visa program.

Manufacturing

As a venture studio and incubator, Build Up Labs does not manufacture physical products. It develops digital products and MVPs in-house using cross-disciplinary teams in Lisbon.

Notable Products

• Tap My Back - Employee recognition platform acquired by a Texas-based company in 2023.

Reputation

Build Up Labs is recognized in Portugal's startup ecosystem for its hands-on approach to building ventures from ideation to product-market fit and achieving exits. Professionals note its strengths in lean processes, AI integration, and support for international founders through visa certification. Limited public feedback exists due to its niche B2B focus on startup creation.