The former industrial site of the Piraeus Paint Factory (CHROPEI) on Pireos Avenue is being transformed into a cutting-edge Innovation Center. This ambitious initiative, backed by the government, aims to boost Greece’s economy and drive GDP growth by fostering a shift toward a new productive model.
The focus will be on linking research directly to production and the real economy through scientific reports. The Innovation Center will be developed on an 18-acre site that had been abandoned for over 40 years. According to studies, the site will be renovated to accommodate a large number of innovative businesses. The center will feature offices, laboratories, a conference hall, a library, and green spaces.
Often referred to as Greece’s “Silicon Valley,” the Start-up Center is designed to attract not only local startups but also major tech companies.
The project will be executed as a Public-Private Partnership (PPP), with the General Secretariat for Research and Innovation (GSRI) and the Private Partnership Agency (PPA) taking the lead. The first phase of the project, announced on December 16, involves developing 38,000 sq.m. of space for 30 years, with an estimated investment of 100 million euros, which is expected to create 2,000 jobs.
Today, Greece has already become one of the top destinations for digital nomads, with many choosing Athens as their base.
The modern Coworking Spaces and Business Centers in Athens, and vibrant startup ecosystem make it an attractive hub for remote workers and entrepreneurs. With its relatively low cost of living compared to other European capitals, high-speed internet, and a growing community of like-minded professionals, Athens offers an ideal environment for digital nomads to live and work.
Many are drawn not only to the city’s dynamic atmosphere but also to its rich culture, history, and Mediterranean lifestyle, which make it a perfect blend of work and leisure. As a result, more and more coworking spaces in Athens are catering to the needs of these professionals, contributing to the city’s rise as a key player in the global digital nomad movement.
David Prior
David Prior is the editor of Today News, responsible for the overall editorial strategy. He is an NCTJ-qualified journalist with over 20 years’ experience, and is also editor of the award-winning hyperlocal news title Altrincham Today. His LinkedIn profile is here.