On May 29, 2024, Greece hosted the first regional phase of the GAEA Challenge, the European innovation program for sustainable natural resource management. The Greek Innovation Competition took place online via MS Teams, bringing together local innovators and start-ups.
A total of eighty participants, organized into twenty-two teams, pitched their innovative ideas to a panel of expert judges.
Τhis event marked the first step of the GAEA Challenge across Europe, setting the stage for the upcoming regional innovation competitions. Moreover, Greece’s vibrant start-up ecosystem and focus on green technology were clearly on display, highlighting the country’s potential as a hub for sustainable innovation.
Expert Jury Panel
The Greek competition featured a distinguished panel of judges:
- Christos Nikoloudis, CEO at Mantis Beyond Innovation
- Konstantinos Aravossis, Professor and UNESCO Chairholder at NTUA
- Antonis Politis, Senior Business Development Manager at EIT Raw Materials
- Charalampos Charalampidis, Vice President at the Greek Association of Environmental Protection Companies and CEO at Sustainable Epirus S.A.
After a full day of presentations and in-depth discussions, the winning teams were announced.
Greece’s Innovation Ecosystem
Greece has a growing start-up ecosystem, with a strong focus on green technology. The country has seen a surge in tech-driven environmental initiatives, from renewable energy projects in Epirus and Crete to circular economy solutions developed by local universities and start-ups.
Furthermore, the Greek Innovation Competition showcased the creativity and dedication of teams ready to tackle real-world sustainability challenges. This event demonstrated Greece’s entrepreneurial spirit and its ability to contribute to European innovation.
Next Steps: Phase 2
The teams will now advance to Phase 2 – The Interregional Innovation Competition. Here, they will compete with top projects from across Europe. This stage encourages collaboration and knowledge exchange, helping teams refine their ideas and make a greater impact.
The Importance of the GAEA Challenge
The GAEA Challenge highlights the urgent need for innovative solutions in natural resource management and green technologies. By connecting local talent with European networks, the program empowers teams to develop practical and impactful solutions. These solutions can drive sustainable change both in Greece and across Europe.
