Athens Hosts STEP Initiative Event to Boost European Innovation and Investment

A two-day event in Athens concluded on Friday, showcasing the Strategic Technologies for Europe Platform (STEP), an EU initiative aimed at enhancing European industry and investment in critical technologies. The event brought together members of the Greek government, academia, businesses, and representatives from European Commission bodies like DG REGIO and DG Budget Task Force, CE Report quotes Athens-Macedonian

STEP focuses on channeling funding from 11 EU programs into three key areas: digital and deep-tech innovation, clean and resource-efficient technologies, and biotechnologies. It also emphasizes skill development for these sectors and has introduced the STEP Seal, an EU label that recognizes high-quality projects and enhances their visibility for potential funding opportunities.

Discussions during the event included the integration of STEP into Greece's NSRF programs for 2021-2027 and its incorporation into the national development strategy. Key participants included Alternate National Economy & Finance Minister Nikos Papathanassis, Deputy Minister to the Prime Minister Thanassis Kontogiorgis, and Deputy Development Minister Anna Mani-Papadimitriou.

Minister Papathanassis highlighted the initiative's role in strengthening Greece's position in innovation and competitiveness, particularly in pharmaceuticals, digital technologies, clean energy, and biotechnology. He emphasized the potential of leveraging Greece’s talent and educational institutions to lead in critical technological advancements within Europe.