As part of the celebration of 65 years of NCSR “DEMOKRITOS”​, on the 29th of September, the anniversary celebration unfolded across four distinct acts, each exploring a different chapter of Demokritos’ journey and vision for the future. Act IV, dedicated to innovation and entrepreneurship, brought together three insightful discussions focused on the people, ideas and ecosystems that turn research into impact.

Our very own Sofia Magkia, Head of the DEMOKRITOS Innovation, took an active role in two of these discussions.

Innovation in Action: The New Generation of Demokritos Startups & Spin-offs
Sofia Magkia moderated an engaging panel exploring the challenges and opportunities faced by startups within the Demokritos ecosystem — from transforming research into innovative solutions to navigating the journey from an idea to a sustainable venture.
The discussion brought together:
Dimitrios T., Secretary General for Research and Innovation ΓΓΕΚ | GSRI
Afrodite Sevasti, PhD, CEO, PHAROS AI Factory Project
Vasilis Stenos, CEO, Solmeyea
George Loudos, CVO, BIOEMTECH
Nikolaos Zotos, CEO, Future Intelligence Ltd

Investing in Innovation: Capital, Networks & Business Growth
Sofia Magkia also joined the panel for a thought-provoking discussion with Antigoni Lymperopoulou, Chief Executive Officer, Hellenic Development Bank of Investments, Katerina Pramatari, Professor at Athens University of Economics and Business, Elias Vyzas, Partner, Head of Consulting at EY Greece, Panagiotis Karampinis, Managing Director, Endeavor Greece, focusing on the role of capital, networks and strategic partnerships in enabling innovation and supporting business growth.

We believe that innovation is not only about technology or research. It is about people, collaboration, trust and the ecosystems we build together to help great ideas move forward.

A big thank you to the organisers, all the inspiring speakers and everyone who joined us, shared their perspectives and contributed to the conversation.

And a special thank you to our team for being part of this important milestone and helping shape the dialogue around the future of innovation.

A future driven by #innovation. #People at the heart of it all.