The civilisational transformation that this transition entails is of a similar order of magnitude to the technological and cultural transformations that underlie it and justifies everyone's commitment to making the ongoing process as inclusive as possible. "Eco Mateus" is an initiative geared towards the specific characteristics of the Douro and Trás-os-Montes regions, seeking to bring to the debate examples from all over the planet, ideas and methodologies that contribute to increasing awareness of the present time, in other words the ability of agents, entrepreneurs and organisations based there to anticipate and respond to the immediate problems and unknowns that the future brings.

Each year "Eco Mateus" features a conference by an international speaker, followed by a working workshop during the summer; a mini innovation school, the aim of which is to equip participants with increased skills in perceiving and resolving obstacles to the realisation of problems or projects.

"Eco Mateus" can include initiatives throughout the year that contribute to the reflections that underlie it and can also cross over with other programmes developed by the partner organisations. It is an initiative of UTAD and FCM and is carried out in partnership with international innovation experts.