From 22 to 27 June 2025, the MaastrichtMBA programme will host its next International Week in the vibrant city of Porto, Portugal. In partnership with Porto Business School (PBS), this immersive week forms a mandatory component of the Executive MBA curriculum, offering participants a unique opportunity to explore the evolving landscape of the elective Sustainable Innovation from an international perspective.

Titled “International Perspectives on Sustainable Innovation,” the week is designed to go beyond foundational frameworks and instead shine a spotlight on the specific contexts and ecosystems where sustainability and innovation converge. With PBS’s triple accreditation (AMBA, AACSB, and EFMD) and its emphasis on digital transformation, leadership, and sustainability, Porto offers the ideal environment for this hands-on, thematic learning experience.

Engaging Content, Real-World Applications

Participants will engage with four central themes:

• Sustainable Technology and Green Innovation
• Financing Sustainable Projects
• Sustainable Policy and Regulation
• Smart Cities and Urbanisation

These themes will be brought to life through interactive lectures, expert panel discussions, and immersive site visits to cutting-edge organisations. Highlights include visits to Smartex.AI, which uses AI to reduce textile waste, and CEiiA, a leader in sustainable mobility and smart city infrastructure.

A defining feature of the week is the group assignment in which students develop and pitch an original sustainable innovation business proposal. This culminates in a live presentation to a jury of faculty and experts. An individual reflective essay also challenges participants to apply their learnings to their own organisational contexts, deepening personal insight and strategic thinking.

Cultural Immersion in a Historic City

Beyond the classroom, students will have the opportunity to experience the culture and history of Porto. A guided city tour and participation in the São João Festival—a beloved local celebration filled with music, fireworks, and community spirit—will round off the week, ensuring a truly memorable experience that balances academic intensity with cultural richness.

As the world increasingly turns towards sustainable solutions, this International Week will empower MaastrichtMBA students to not only understand the complexities of sustainable innovation, but to lead the charge within their own industries. With its hands-on format, expert-led content, and cultural richness, the Porto experience promises to be as transformative as it is memorable.

Join Us in Porto: A Warm Invitation

We warmly invite MaastrichtMBA alumni, current students not enrolled in this week, and members of our wider alumni network who may be in the Porto area during this time to connect with us. Whether it’s over coffee, dinner, or a group session, it’s a great opportunity to catch up and share experiences.

Additionally, prospective students interested in the programme are welcome to join us for a class session to experience firsthand what our Executive MBA is all about. Please contact the MaastrichtMBA team in advance to arrange a visit and learn more about how you can be part of this exciting week.

We look forward to welcoming our cohort to Porto and embarking on this journey towards sustainable leadership—together.

This article presents a preview of the elective week on Perspectives on Sustainable Innovation at Porto Business School, Portugal. This elective module of our Responsible Leadership elective is part of the executive modular part-time MaastrichtMBA programme. The programme has a Triple Crown accreditation and is aimed for professionals with at least 5 years of working experience.