Greece has seen a growth in the number of startups in recent years, particularly in industries such as technology, tourism, and energy. Despite the economic challenges faced by the country, the startup ecosystem in Greece is thriving with support from both the private and public sector.
According to a recent report, Greece received more €150 million in venture capital funding in 2020, and more than 500 million in 2021. The technology sector was the biggest recipient of these funds, attracting over 60% of the total investment.
Growing Industries and Notable Startups
Technology
The technology sector has been one of the fastest-growing industries in Greece, with a focus on areas such as fintech, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity. Some notable startups in this sector include:
- Taxibeat - a taxi-hailing app that has gained significant popularity in Greece and other countries in the region.
- Zeus - a fintech company that provides mobile banking services to consumers and businesses.
- Influitive - a software company that specializes in marketing automation and customer advocacy solutions.
Tourism
Greece's thriving tourism industry has also produced a number of startups that aim to improve the travel experience for both tourists and locals. Some of the most popular startups in this sector include:
- TravelFeel - a travel company that offers customized tours and experiences to tourists visiting Greece.
- Culture Trip - a digital media company that provides travel and cultural content for travelers and tourists.
- Lola Market - a travel marketplace that connects tourists with local experiences and activities.
Energy
The energy sector in Greece has also seen growth in the number of startups, particularly in the areas of renewable energy and energy efficiency. Some of the notable startups in this sector include:
- HelioBooster - a renewable energy company that specializes in solar energy solutions for households and businesses.
- Ecoisme - a smart home technology company that provides energy-saving solutions to consumers.
- Eco-Energy - a renewable energy company that focuses on the development and implementation of sustainable energy solutions.
Active Investors and Incubators
There are several active investors and incubators in Greece that provide support and funding to startups. Some of the most notable include:
- VentureFriends - a venture capital firm that invests in early-stage startups in Greece and other countries in the region.
- Launchub - an early-stage startup accelerator that provides mentorship, training, and funding to startups in Greece and other countries in the region.
- Athena Innovation Center - a technology incubator that provides support and resources to startups in the technology sector in Greece.