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Startup Ecosystem in Thessaloniki

Startup Ecosystem in Thessaloniki
Startup Ecosystem in Thessaloniki
Thessaloniki has developed into Greece's second most vibrant startup ecosystem, combining exceptional technical talent cost-effectiveness, improving support infrastructure, and strategic positioning in Southeastern Europe. The city has produced notable ventures like Pollfish (acquired by Prodege), eye-tracking technology company Loceye, and supply chain software provider Logismitech, while demonstrating growing capabilities in agrifood technology, tourism innovation, and increasingly AI applications. The funding landscape has evolved significantly with the emergence of the Hellenic Development Bank of Investments' funds of funds, venture builder programs like Venture Garden, and increasing interest from Athens-based investors establishing regional presence. Support infrastructure includes programs like OK!Thess providing early-stage resources, pre-accelerator initiatives from Alexander Innovation Zone, and specialized connections to the region's agricultural strengths. Throughout the city, emerging innovation clusters connect entrepreneurs with necessary resources - from the university area housing deep technology ventures to Thessaloniki Technology Park supporting advanced manufacturing, agrifood innovation in Thermi, and increasingly the revitalized port district attracting creative ventures. Thessaloniki startups benefit from exceptional technical talent quality-to-cost ratio, strategic location bridging Greece with Balkan markets, significant European research engagement, and compelling lifestyle advantages attracting international talent. Entrepreneurs still navigate challenges including access to late-stage capital, building stronger diaspora networks compared to Athens, developing specialized support services, and occasional perception challenges despite Thessaloniki's growing momentum and focus on knowledge economy development.
Thessaloniki has developed into Greece's second most vibrant startup ecosystem, combining exceptional technical talent cost-effectiveness, improving support infrastructure, and strategic positioning in Southeastern Europe. The city has produced notable ventures like Pollfish (acquired by Prodege), eye-tracking technology company Loceye, and supply chain software provider Logismitech, while demonstrating growing capabilities in agrifood technology, tourism innovation, and increasingly AI applications. The funding landscape has evolved significantly with the emergence of the Hellenic Development Bank of Investments' funds of funds, venture builder programs like Venture Garden, and increasing interest from Athens-based investors establishing regional presence. Support infrastructure includes programs like OK!Thess providing early-stage resources, pre-accelerator initiatives from Alexander Innovation Zone, and specialized connections to the region's agricultural strengths. Throughout the city, emerging innovation clusters connect entrepreneurs with necessary resources - from the university area housing deep technology ventures to Thessaloniki Technology Park supporting advanced manufacturing, agrifood innovation in Thermi, and increasingly the revitalized port district attracting creative ventures. Thessaloniki startups benefit from exceptional technical talent quality-to-cost ratio, strategic location bridging Greece with Balkan markets, significant European research engagement, and compelling lifestyle advantages attracting international talent. Entrepreneurs still navigate challenges including access to late-stage capital, building stronger diaspora networks compared to Athens, developing specialized support services, and occasional perception challenges despite Thessaloniki's growing momentum and focus on knowledge economy development.
Thessaloniki startups in numbers
Startups in Thessaloniki on Foundersbase show a range of characteristics across different early development stages. Among the projects in this region, 46% are currently in the concept phase, exploring early validation, while 54% have developed a minimum viable product (MVP) and are open to forming strategic partnerships. Currently, 37.9% of startups have reached the Prototype phase, one of several indicators of how innovative founding projects in Thessaloniki are evolving. A significant share (62%) report open positions, making this a valuable space for entrepreneurial talent looking to join a team early. In terms of funding, 49% of startups are currently seeking investment, while others pursue different approaches to growth. Startups in Thessaloniki are active across a wide range of industries, with many focusing on areas such as Sustainability, Mental Health, and Tourism. Alongside sector diversity, projects also address major global challenges. Notable impact innovation topics include Global Health, Food Security, Sustainable Agriculture, and Elderly Care, adding purpose-driven perspectives to the local startup scene. Whether you’re interested in supporting founders, investing in early-stage ventures, or finding opportunities to get involved, the startup activity in Thessaloniki offers a great starting point.
Job Offerings
More than (46%) of startups in Thessaloniki are actively recruiting talent, while (54%) are focused on building with their current team.
Startup Stage
The Thessaloniki startup ecosystem spans various development stages from early ideas to profitable businesses, with most ventures (37.9%) currently at the Prototype stage.
Funding Need
About (68%) of early-stage startups in Thessaloniki are seeking external investment to scale their innovations, while (32%) are pursuing a bootstrapped growth approach.
Top innovation sectors
Discover the industries where early-stage startups in Thessaloniki are developing innovative solutions and seeking collaboration partners.
Impact Focus
Startups from Thessaloniki on Foundersbase most often focus on Global Health, driving innovation in this area.
Discover the startup ecosystem in Thessaloniki

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