Athens startup ecosystem
Discover the pulsing heart of innovation in Athens, where innovative startups mingle with vibrant VCs and coworking spaces. Experience the spirit of entrepreneurship in a city that's been a cradle of civilization!
Everything you need to know about the startup scene in Athens
Mentors in Athens
Data-first & product-driven growth leader w/ over $100mil spent & optimized. Specialties in: user acquisition, digital media, product growth, conversion rate optimization, A/B testing, retention & engagement marketing, and analytics.
Alex Lambropoulos
Customer Acquisition & Retention | Conversion Rate Optimization | Analytics
B2B SaaS companies come to me with their problems. I do customer research, understand the deep causes behind the problems and I fix them.
Growth lead with 7+ years of experience in the SaaS B2B industry. I’ve helped tech startups on paid search & paid social, demand generation and customer acquisition and retention. Passionate about strategic marketing & marketing metrics. Let’s chat, I am here to help!
Ilias Mitsou
SaaS Growth Marketer | Paid Ads, Customer Acquisition, CRO, Data-Driven | Head of Growth @ made.simplr
Your business isn’t gonna scale with more $$$ into your ads. You need to build a marketing system that nurtures leads, converts them into customers & and makes them come back. I help you do that with Marketing Automation.
As VP of Growth at EuroVPS, I had to make a LOT of decisions, daily. This got exhausting, especially if I had multiple good ideas on how to do something, but wasn’t sure which to choose. Moments like these inspired me to build GrowthMentor. Does this resonate? If so, I’d love to try and help you.
Over the past 10+ as a Founder and CTO, I have built and grown a handful of businesses. I know how overwhelming it can all get, but talking to someone who has been there before always helped me. And now, I am here to help you
20+ years experience in digital marketing, I lead the team at Kollective, a boutique agency servicing mainly the hotel and tourism sector. I am passionate about helping businesses of all sizes grow using simple to implement strategies that are scaleable and give actionable data!
Product growth expert specialising in subscription apps and monetisation. 6 years across consulting and early stage startups funded by Index Ventures, EQT Capital, Alumni Ventures and Intel Capital.
GrowthMentor events in Athens
past
GrowthMentor’s 5 Year Anniversary Party
Nea Makri
Sat 16th September, 2023
Mentors participating
past
Athens’s GrowthMentor Networking Extravaganza Spring 2023
To Lokali, Sarri 44, 10553, Athens
Thu 27th April, 2023
Mentors participating
past
Athens’s GrowthMentor Networking Extravaganza Spring 2022!
The Sweet, Geronta 2, Athina
Thu 5th May, 2022
Mentors participating
Frequently asked questions
What industries or sectors are dominant in the Athens's startup ecosystem?
Athens’ startup ecosystem is diverse, with a strong emphasis on sectors like technology, tourism, and shipping. Notably, the city has seen a surge in digital tech, FinTech, HealthTech, and EdTech startups. The fusion of tech with other local industries, such as tourism and maritime, also creates unique startup opportunities.
What are the key accelerators available for startups in Athens?
Key accelerators for startups in Athens include EGG – Enter Grow Go, and, Found.Ation. These accelerators provide a supportive environment for early-stage startups, offering mentorship, networking opportunities, training, and sometimes funding.
What local funding opportunities are available for startups in Athens?
Funding opportunities in Athens include government grants like ESPA, Jeremie funds, and local venture capital firms like VentureFriends and Uni.Fund. Athens also has an active angel investor community and several startup competitions offering funding and support.
Are there any tax incentives designed to support startups in Athens?
Greece has introduced tax incentives to support startups, such as reduced corporate tax rates for new businesses and various R&D credits. However, as tax regulations may change, it’s important for startups to consult with local financial advisors or agencies for up-to-date information.
What is the cost of living and operating a business in Athens?
The cost of living and operating a business in Athens is generally lower compared to many other European capitals. This includes lower rental costs for office space and living, as well as lower average salaries. However, businesses should also factor in the relatively high taxation and social security costs.
What is the talent pool like in Athens?
Athens has a talented workforce with a high proportion of university graduates. The talent pool is particularly strong in fields like engineering, information technology, and finance. Despite a high level of emigration during the financial crisis, many young professionals are now returning to Greece, enriching the local talent pool.
How is Athens' infrastructure conducive to startup growth?
Athens’ infrastructure supports startups through its numerous coworking spaces, tech parks, and a growing digital infrastructure. The city’s geographical position also allows easy access to other European, African, and Asian markets, favoring startups with a global outreach.
Are there any major networking events focused on startups in Athens?
Athens hosts numerous startup networking events and conferences like Athens Digital Lab, Found.ation’s The Squeeze, and Disrupt Greece. These events offer a platform for startups to connect with investors, industry professionals, and like-minded entrepreneurs.
What is the regulatory environment like for startups in Athens?
The regulatory environment in Athens has improved in recent years to be more supportive of startups. There are initiatives to simplify bureaucratic procedures and digitalize public services. However, startups may still face some challenges with administrative processes and should stay up-to-date with local laws and regulations.