Abstract Objective To describe the conceptual exercise of reflecting on the possibilities and particularities of the participation of Lusophone schools of nursing in the Nursing Knowledge Network. Method An analysis was conducted using information obtained from an environmental scan of institutional resources following the conceptual framework by Prug and Prusak on the knowledge networks. The learnings reported in the analysis are based on the collected information and reflections on the positive and negative aspects of participation, while proposing possible solutions for an action plan. Results There is interest in the internationalization of research and collaborative work both as institutional actions to support nursing research and potential benefits due to participation in the Network. The collaborative work has potential to increase the impact of research, expedite dissemination and use of results both in education and in clinical practice, broadening the horizons of Lusophone nursing science. Conclusion and Implications for practice Participation of these institutions in the Network offers numerous possibilities to demonstrate the originality, creativity and expertise of their teaching and research practice, encouraging the sharing of ideas and practices. The practice of scientific production in all its scenarios by educators and students can be improved through refined ways of thinking, creating, producing, and disseminating knowledge.