What is the Project?
The Loop Co. is a dynamic enterprise that believes in the power of innovation and sustainability to drive change. At its heart, it invests in technology, businesses, and people who truly make a difference. The project revolves around LoopOS – a modular SaaS ERP that helps businesses build circular economy flows in just minutes using a no-code, drag-and-drop interface. Equally engaging is Loop Future, a software and IT services company delivering digital transformation, tailored development, and innovative retail solutions across industries. It’s a blend of cutting-edge technology and a passion for sustainability that keeps everything moving… almost like a well-orchestrated loop.
Main Benefits
Key figures and facts highlight the significant advantages of this initiative:
- High growth potential enhanced by premier-caliber nearshore and offshore talent
- International business contributing over 65% of operations
- HR retention leadership with less than 3% below-market attrition
- Impressive trajectory with a 10X team growth in the past 3 years
Our History and Evolution
The project’s journey started as a spin-off embedded in the IPN institution at the University of Coimbra. In its early days, it participated in initiatives like Startup Weekend Coimbra and ineo start, where the project was recognized and awarded. In 2016, it launched Book in Loop’s second-generation platform with Sonae MC as a partner and initiated summer internships that have since fueled continuous recruitment. Then, in 2018, the project became the first social project in Portugal to receive venture capital funds, with Ricardo Morgado and João Rodrigues joining the team. In 2019, BabyLoop emerged as a circular economy platform catering to the regulated and safe childcare products market with Carolina Patrocínio as its face, while BiLD Analytics made its entry into data science and business intelligence. The evolution continued in 2020 with the creation of the group The Loop Co., housing Loop Future and Loop Circular. Rapid progress marked the years that followed – from a COVID-19 testing platform in 2021 and strategic partnerships with Continente and Note, to new office and logistics center expansions in 2022, and then a dynamic 2023 that saw the release of new products like LoopOS and ZEROO Smart Packaging alongside acquisitions of ColorElephant and Hydradev. Looking ahead to 2024, the project is set to release new services such as Salesforce and TV & Media, further expanding its presence with new offices in Leiria, London, and India.
Innovative Products and Services
At the core of the project, LoopOS redefines how businesses engage with circular economy practices. This modular SaaS ERP is not only powerful but also user-friendly, built with a no-code, drag-and-drop interface so that companies can create and manage circular flows in minutes. Complementing LoopOS is Loop Future, which offers software and IT services that power digital transformation across industries—from bespoke development to innovative retail solutions. There is also BabyLoop, a platform that stands out as a safe and regulated market for childcare products, and BiLD Analytics, which carved a niche in data science and business intelligence. Each offering is designed to be agile and responsive, a true reflection of modern needs mixed with the warm spirit of innovation.
Leadership and Vision
The vision driving the project is set by the company’s founders, ensuring that every step forward is built on a solid foundation of expertise and passion. João Bernardo Parreira leads as CEO with a distinct sense of purpose, while Manuel Tovar, acting as COO, ensures smooth operational flow. Ricardo Morgado, the CSO, and João Rodrigues, the CTO, bring in vital strategic and technical perspectives, respectively. Their combined leadership has steered the project from humble beginnings at the University of Coimbra to a multifaceted enterprise with a strong international presence.
Project Impact on SDGs
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – Promoting sustainable industrialization and innovation
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – Enabling circular economy flows and reducing waste
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – Supporting community-driven tech innovations
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – Driving significant employment and career evolution
- SDG 13: Climate Action – Fostering practices that support a sustainable environment
Future Perspectives
Looking forward, the project shows no signs of slowing down. Future releases include innovative services in Salesforce and TV & Media, along with additional acquisitions of Certwo and Ovyo. New offices in strategic locations such as Leiria, London, and India underline an ambitious global expansion plan. The Loop Co. continues to make headlines; for instance, LoopOS has even represented Portugal at the Startup World Cup Global Finale. This blend of steady growth, strategic expansions, and consistent product innovation reveals a promising pathway for shaping the future of digital transformation and sustainable practices. It’s a journey marked by persistent evolution and a community-driven spirit that keeps the loop in motion.
