Casais Group announces the launch of the second phase of MITH, the Minho Innovation & Technology Hub, which is focused on the construction of housing and commercial and utilities infrastructures. The construction of infrastructure such as roads and land subdivision for this hub located in the city of Guimarães is set to be completed next year. The project’s first residential building is scheduled for 2027, while the overall project is working towards a 2033 completion date.

MITH combines workspaces and residential facilities, so promoting interaction between companies, universities, and institutes in an environment conducive to start-ups and technological innovation projects. The residential area was designed to function as a sustainable community. It boasts various infrastructural features, including cycle tracks.

The project is running according to plan and is now in its second phase of construction, where the focus turns to constructing commercial and utilities infrastructures as well as expanding infrastructures required for the residential facilities scheduled for completion in 2027. The project uses the CREE Buildings timber-hybrid system, which takes advantage of a timber and concrete composite that enables faster execution of the works and brings with it environmental benefits, such as a reduced carbon footprint.

António Carlos Rodrigues, CEO of the Casais Group, confirmed that “launching the second phase of the MITH launch marks the beginning of the construction of residential infrastructures, completing the expansion of the hub and creating the conditions for companies, the University, and the surrounding community to coexist in an integrated and sustainable space.”

In 2023, Casais Group signed a protocol with the University of Minho, Guimarães City Council, TECMINHO, and SITIO, enabling companies and projects arising from collaboration with these entities to access special conditions for installation and development. The partnership between all those involved is ongoing.

In this second phase, SITIO will also expand its presence, with the space becoming home to the National Centre for Advanced Computing run by the Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT), which will build its Artificial Intelligence Factory here.  The initiative will make remote access to the Deucalion supercomputer possible, thereby enabling companies and researchers to explore and manage this high-performance infrastructure, ushering in new research and market opportunities.

“In just two years, we have managed to create a vibrant and 100% functional community that brings together universities, companies, and local organisations around innovation. Our next step is to expand the space and continue to welcome projects that will grow this ecosystem,” said Miguel Ricardo, General Manager of SITIO.