In the Region’s strategy to transform Attica into a strong pillar of digital development, innovation and entrepreneurship, the regional governor Nikos Chardalias, during the opening of the Region’s pavilion at the BEYOND 2026 International Exhibition.
The regional governor emphasized that hosting the exhibition in Attica confirms the region’s ever-growing role as a hub of international outreach and technologicalfor all of Southeastern Europe.
“Our presence here today is a deeply political and developmental act. It is an expression of our conscious strategic choice to make Attica a leader in the new digital era,” he noted.
As he noted, technology is not an end in itself, but a tool for strengthening development, social cohesion, and productive transformation.
The focus is on data, innovation, and Athens Forward
He placed particular emphasis on the Region’s collaborations with the European Digital Innovation Hubs, as well as on the Athens Forward Competitiveness and Entrepreneurship Observatory.
As he noted, this initiative has become a key tool for designing policies based on real data and measurable results.
“Modern policies cannot be based on assumptions. They require data, knowledge, and measurable goals. With an absolute focus on results, far removed from appearances and the desire to make a quick impression,” he emphasized.
Reference was also made to the European program SPACE4Cities, which is being implemented through the Attica Region Innovation Center and utilizes advanced technological applications to meet the needs of local communities.
Attiki On: 1,044 investments and €95.5 million in funding
A central point of his remarks was the Attiki On, which he described as a key pillar of the regional strategy for developing and strengthening the productive economy.
The program is aimed at small and very small enterprises, boosting investments in technological modernization and innovation.
Presenting the initial data, the regional governor announced that the evaluation process has been completed and that 1,044 investment projects are now moving into the implementation phase, with a total funding budget of 95.5 million euros.
“Supporting business goes beyond regional policy; it is—above all—a national necessity,” he emphasized.
Concluding his speech, he underscored Attica’s pivotal role in the Greek economy.
“Attica generates nearly half of the country’s GDP. When Attica prospers, Greece prospers,” he stated.
Calls for decentralization and greater powers for the regions
After the opening ceremony, Nikos Hardalias visited the exhibition booths and returned to the issue of meaningful decentralization, calling for more tools and powers for the regions.
As he emphasized, issues such as traffic, flood protection, and major infrastructure projects require more flexible procedures and closer cooperation with the central government.
“Although many positive steps have been taken, this whole issue requires boldness and political will. It does not call for piecemeal measures. It requires cooperation with the relevant ministries,” he said.
At the same time, he emphasized that the Region is moving swiftly to secure funding from European and national financial instruments, with a focus on metropolitan-scale projects.
Three-day series of events on the digital and green transition
Throughout the BEYOND 2026 event, the Attica Region’s booth hosted events and discussions on the challenges of the digital transition, the green economy and sustainable development.
The initial studies of Athens Forward were presented, the results of the Attiki On program, as well as initiatives that strengthen collaboration between businesses and research institutions.
The program also featured discussions on tourism startups, the digital transformation of destinations, the Children’s University of the Attica Region, the SPACE4Cities program, and the impact of Artificial Intelligence on the labor market.
