Who We Are

Alentejo Alliance is a U.S.-based nonprofit working alongside the people, businesses, and traditions of the Alentejo region. Our work today is rooted in Alcácer do Sal, shaped by what the community has identified as its priorities — and what we learn together here, we hope can be useful to other Alentejo towns navigating similar questions.

By connecting local businesses, students, and international collaborators, we're building a stronger, more vibrant Alcácer do Sal — one that celebrates its roots while creating pathways for the future.

A group of diverse people posing outdoors in front of a colorful crocheted heart-shaped art installation.
A group of people sitting around a long outdoor dining table at sunset, with plates, glasses, and bottles on the table, under a canopy with string lights.

The Cooperativa Empresarial

The Cooperativa Empresarial began as a small group of businesses filling a gap — Alcácer do Sal has never had a dedicated business association. This fall, it becomes one: a membership-based network with tiers for businesses, students, and community supporters, offering mentorship, shared resources, and a collective voice for local entrepreneurs.

People sitting around a long conference table enjoying a meal during a social or formal event in a modern, well-lit room with large windows and a neutral color palette.

Education and Academic Partnerships

Through Alcácer FutureLab, launching this fall in partnership with the local secondary school and Startup Leiria, students spend 10–12 weeks identifying a real challenge facing the region — in tourism, sustainability, digital skills, or local commerce — and pitch a solution publicly. Alongside FutureLab, we're strengthening the school's existing internship program, connecting students directly with Cooperativa member businesses.

Ruins of ancient stone walls with two large rusted bombs in the foreground and green trees and cloudy sky in the background.

Community & Culture

Alcácer do Sal carries thousands of years of history — Phoenician, Roman, Moorish, and medieval layers that most visitors, and many residents, have never fully encountered. This fall, we're convening local archaeologists, historians, and community members to map the region's heritage and identify how it can become a source of pride, education, and sustainable tourism — shaped by the community whose story it is.

Meet Our Team

Alentejo Alliance was created with community in mind. The goal has always been to support the community and create connections and opportunities that allow for growth, creativity and connection. Meet the minds that brought the ideas to life.

Cathy- A woman with long blonde hair smiling outdoors on a balcony with a coastal view and houses in the background.

  • Cathy is the owner of Jennings House Eatery in San Diego, California, and the former Executive Director of the Fermanian Business & Economic Institute at Point Loma Nazarene University. With a rich background in leadership, management, entrepreneurship, and international business and communications, Cathy brings decades of experience to her work in both the nonprofit and for-profit sectors.

    For the past 14 years, Cathy has led business and cultural trips to Portugal, working with entrepreneurs, business leaders, and university students on international business and social impact projects. Her work bridges cultures and industries, fostering collaboration between U.S. and Portuguese organizations. She has also partnered with Portuguese universities and secondary schools to deliver conferences and seminars designed to inspire and equip professionals and students alike.

    Cathy loves to travel and enjoys coastal living. In her free time, she enjoys reading, walking, and spending time with her family. She lives in San Diego and is the proud mother of two grown children and grandmother to three grandsons.