This project is part of the Digital Commerce Districts initiative, funded under Portugal’s Recovery and Resilience Plan (PRR) and promoted by IAPMEI. The project brings together a strategic partnership involving the Municipality of Santarém, the Santarém Business, Services and Trade Association (ACES), Santarém Parish Union, and ISLA Santarém—Polytechnic Institute.
The initiative aims to strengthen the digital capacity of the historic city centre, combining its strong cultural heritage with technological innovation. Through the digitalization of spaces and services, the project seeks to transform the district into a hub of innovation, where traditions are valued, preserved, and reinterpreted.

Objectives

Modernization of Local Commerce
To drive the modernization of traditional retail by encouraging the adoption of digital tools and online platforms, enabling physical stores to reach new audiences and increase their visibility and market reach.

Digital Transformation
To foster the integration of innovative technological solutions, such as electronic payment systems, digital marketing strategies, and e-commerce platforms, promoting a more modern and efficient shopping experience while enhancing overall customer experience.

Innovative and Competitive Development
To strengthen the competitiveness of local businesses through the implementation of innovative solutions that add value, attract more customers, and support sales growth, contributing to local economic development and social cohesion.

Expected Impact
The combination of solutions implemented within the Santarém Digital Commerce District is expected to significantly enhance both the technological capacity and the physical attractiveness of the area.

The project will generate economic benefits while addressing the shared goals of all stakeholders, delivering meaningful and measurable value to the community.

• To reduce negative social and environmental impacts, resulting in the common good.
• To generate attraction, thanks to the added value provided by personalized action.
• To raise awareness and transmit values ​​through action and example.
• To improve the positioning and updated image of the organizing entities and participating companies.
• Strengthen the loyalty of residents and visitors.
• To serve as inspiration and motivation, due to its exemplary nature, so that it can be replicated in other parishes.
• Increase the sales volume of merchants in the neighborhood.
• To leverage funding opportunities based on the integration of the private sector and other social entities.
• Streamlining data-driven governance, consensus building, and increased legitimacy enhances the strength of implemented actions.
• To incorporate the technical capabilities and knowledge of private companies into the performance of certain public functions.
• To improve the positioning and visibility of the municipality.