Stream 08 presentation

Greece has potential for growth in knowledge-based industries and tourism due to its highly educated population and natural attractions. However, it lacks sufficient venture capital investment in startups and new technologies compared to other countries. OpenCoffee meetings were started to bring together creative people and spawn new ideas, with over 100 presentations held with no costs so far. To further growth, options proposed include increased lobbying, more diverse events, an initial seed funding source, and introducing international experts and business methods. The goal is to determine actions to literally force growth not just in Greece but other similar countries in Central and Eastern Europe.