In a bold move to support the burgeoning startup ecosystem, the Portuguese Standardization Body – Instituto Português da Qualidade (IPQ) – presents the standard NP 4595 ‘Approach to Quality Management and Innovation in Startups – Requirements and Guidelines’. This pioneering standard is the first of its kind, not only at a national level but also on the international stage, designed specifically to help startups stand out in an increasingly competitive market.
A tailored framework for startups
NP 4595 offers a comprehensive framework for startups seeking to enhance their competitive edge by implementing robust management processes focused on quality, innovation and sustainability. The standard provides clear requirements and guidelines that enable startups to adopt international best practices in managing quality and innovation. By following this framework, startups can position their products and services as high-quality and innovative, thereby boosting their market appeal.
Certification and strategic advantages
Startups that implement NP 4595 can validate their self-declaration of quality management through independent certification bodies. This external validation not only enhances credibility but also supports startups in meeting the stringent requirements imposed by incentive systems and European funding programmes.
The potential benefits of adopting NP 4595 include:
- Adoption of International best practices: Startups gain a structured approach to quality and innovation management that aligns with global standards.
- Enhanced marketability: Products and services that comply with NP 4595 reflect high quality and innovative characteristics, facilitating market entry.
- Stronger stakeholder communication: Improved preparation for presentations to investors, financiers, and other stakeholders through enhanced communication capabilities.
- Systematic performance evaluation: Implementation of systematic mechanisms for evaluating key areas of the company's business.
- Increased team engagement: Promotes greater involvement of the team in quality management and innovation practices.
- Improved satisfaction and reputation: Boosts stakeholder satisfaction and raises the visibility and reputation of the startup, both nationally and internationally.
- Demonstrated management capacity: Certification serves as proof of the startup’s ability to meet high standards, enhancing its competitive positioning.
A collaborative effort
NP 4595 was developed by the ad hoc Technical Committee CTA 42 ‘Qualidade e inovação nas startups’ (Quality and innovation in startups), coordinated by IPQ. This collaborative effort brought together representatives from the private and public sectors, including small and medium-sized enterprises, certification bodies, universities, public administration, and technology centres.
A step forward for an inclusive digital economy
This new standard is a significant step towards establishing Portugal as a promoter of innovation, while also ensuring quality and accessibility in the digital economy. By providing startups with a clear, structured framework, NP 4595 empowers them to thrive in competitive markets while contributing to a more dynamic and sustainable economic landscape.
Reinforcing its commitment to global innovation, IPQ will present NP 4595 at the Web Summit Qatar 2025, showcasing Portugal's leadership in setting new benchmarks for quality and innovation in the startup ecosystem.
