Best Tools for Managing a Small Business in Portugal

Running a small business in Portugal comes with its unique set of challenges—from managing accounting in compliance with local tax laws to ensuring efficient communication with clients and staff. Thankfully, a range of modern tools can simplify and automate your operations, helping you stay productive and compliant while focusing on growth. Here's a curated list of the best tools for small business management in Portugal.

1. Toconline (TOC Online)

A certified accounting platform developed specifically for the Portuguese market, TOConline integrates seamlessly with accountants and meets all requirements of the Portuguese Tax Authority.

Key Features:

• Invoicing compliant with AT (Autoridade Tributária)

• Real-time connection with certified accountants

• SAFT file generation and automatic submissions

• Payroll management

Best for: Businesses that want a reliable, tax-compliant accounting solution in Portuguese.

2. Moloni

Moloni is a cloud-based invoicing and stock management software designed for small businesses in Portugal. It’s certified by the Portuguese tax authority and user-friendly even for non-accountants.

Key Features:

• AT-certified invoicing

• POS (Point-of-Sale) and inventory tools

• SAFT exports and automatic VAT calculations

• Integration with WooCommerce and Shopify

Best for: Retailers, online stores, and service providers who need seamless billing and inventory tools.

3. Primavera Express

Primavera offers a free version of its accounting and invoicing software for small businesses with low volumes. It’s a trusted name in Portugal’s business software market.

Key Features:

• Free version for up to 30 documents/month

• Portuguese-language interface

• Certified by Portuguese Tax Authority

• SAFT file export and VAT compliance

Best for: Startups and micro-businesses with limited invoicing needs.

4. QuickBooks + Portuguese Accountant

While QuickBooks is not localized for Portugal, many international entrepreneurs use it for internal management and reporting—paired with a local accountant who handles compliance.

Key Features:

• Clean, intuitive dashboard for expenses, income, and cash flow

• Multi-currency support

• Integration with banks and apps

• Works best when complemented by a certified Portuguese accountant

Best for: Foreign business owners who want global-standard tools while ensuring local compliance.

5. Slack

Slack is a powerful communication platform for internal teams, ideal for remote collaboration, file sharing, and integration with tools like Google Drive and Trello.

Key Features:

• Real-time messaging and channels

• File and project collaboration

• Connects with accounting, CRM, and project management tools

Best for: Small teams that need efficient communication and productivity integration.

6. Trello or Notion

Both tools are excellent for organizing tasks, projects, and internal documentation.

Trello:

• Visual Kanban board for task tracking

• Great for simple project flows

• Free and easy to use

Notion:

• Combines documents, wikis, and tasks

• Ideal for building internal systems and SOPs

• More customizable than Trello

Best for: Entrepreneurs managing operations, content planning, or team workflows.

7. Ponto (by SIBS)

Ponto is a bank account aggregation platform that helps businesses connect multiple bank accounts and streamline financial reporting.

Key Features:

• View transactions across banks in one place

• Export data for accounting and analysis

• Secure and PSD2-compliant

Best for: Businesses with multiple accounts or needing better financial visibility.

8. WeTransfer + Google Workspace

Cloud tools for file sharing, storage, and collaboration are essential. In Portugal, many small businesses use:

• WeTransfer for large file sharing

• Google Workspace for email, Docs, Sheets, and Drive

Best for: Freelancers and teams that handle large media or need reliable cloud collaboration.

Final Tips

• Make sure your invoicing tool is AT-certified to avoid tax compliance issues.

• Partner with a certified accountant who understands your sector and legal obligations.

• Use digital tools to stay lean and organized, especially when scaling or managing remotely.

The right tools can transform how you manage your small business in Portugal—saving time, reducing errors, and keeping you legally compliant. Whether you’re a solo entrepreneur or managing a small team, leveraging these local and global tools will set a strong foundation for your business success.