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An initiative for the development of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Greece was jointly signed by the Athens University of Economics and Business (AUEB), the Athena Research Center, and the National Center for Scientific Research “Demokritos”, through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) under the distinct name SynAI network. The aim is to strengthen collaboration between research, innovation, and entrepreneurship in the scientific field of Artificial Intelligence (AI).

 

The signing ceremony of the MoU took place at AUEB and was attended by Professor Vassilis Vasdekis, Rector of AUEB, Dr. Evangelos Karkaletsis, Vice President of NCSR Demokritos, and Professor Minos Garofalakis, Vice President of the Board and Acting Director General of the Athena Research Center.

 

The SynAI network MoU, with a two-year duration, aims to establish a framework of mutual understanding to enhance innovation, technology transfer, and the effective utilization of AI in Greek society and the economy.

 

The main objectives of the SynAI network collaboration include:

The agreement seeks to reinforce the effectiveness and sustainability of the involved institutions in the field of Artificial Intelligence, creating added value for the entire ecosystem.

 

More specifically, the SynAI network MoU is structured around four complementary thematic axes of cooperation:

 

1. Fundamental and Applied Research in AI

This includes the establishment of joint laboratories and research teams in the fields of machine learning, natural language processing, robotics, and responsible AI.

 

2. AI and Business/Society

The parties intend to develop and disseminate knowledge on the social, ethical, and economic dimensions of AI, focusing on studies concerning responsible AI adoption, business transformation, impacts on employment and social cohesion, and the support of public policy.

 

3. From Idea to Entrepreneurship

The initiative supports researchers and students in establishing AI-focused startups, leveraging research results in Artificial Intelligence. Actions may include mentoring, incubators, access to investment capital, and links with AI innovation ecosystems in Greece and abroad.

 

4. From Research to Adoption by Businesses and the Public Sector

This axis focuses on translating theory into practice by supporting digital innovation within the real economy.

 

On the occasion of signing the SynAI network MoU, Professor Vassilis Vasdekis, Rector of AUEB, stated: “Conducting high-level research and applying it in the economy is a core pillar of AUEB. As part of its outward-looking strategy, AUEB forges partnerships with distinguished institutions engaged in research and the responsible use of Artificial Intelligence. Through these collaborations, the University strengthens its ties with the economy and society, while building trust-based relationships that foster new opportunities and entrepreneurial initiatives.”

 

Dr. Evangelos Karkaletsis, Vice President of NCSR Demokritos, remarked: “Demokritos is a key pillar in the development of Artificial Intelligence in Greece. For decades, we have invested in research and technology integration across our institutes, and today we stand at the center of international developments. Through the European Digital Innovation Hub for AI ‘Smart Attica,’ the European AI platform, and the Greek AI factory ‘Pharos,’ as well as collaborations with top universities and research centers in Greece and abroad, we have gained substantial experience in knowledge transfer and training of young scientists. The Memorandum signed today is a natural continuation of this journey, enhancing our ability to bring AI knowledge beyond academic labs and channel it into society and the economy to strengthen innovation and sustainable growth.”

 

Finally, Professor Minos Garofalakis, Vice President of the Board and Director General of the Athena Research Center, added: “At the research institutes and at the Archimedes Center of Excellence of Athena RC, we invest in building strong foundations for AI in Greece — in data, algorithms, and computational infrastructure that support research and innovation. Our collaboration with AUEB and Demokritos reinforces this strategy, connecting diverse scientific communities into a unified, sustainable AI ecosystem.”