Our story: Turning Ideas into Impact

The Athens Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation (ACEin) is a self-funded unit within the Athens University of Economics and Business (AUEB), dedicated to fostering entrepreneurship, supporting research commercialization, and bridging academia with the market. As a dynamic hub of innovation, we provide aspiring entrepreneurs, researchers, and students with the resources, mentorship, and networks needed to turn ideas into impactful ventures.

Our mission: Empowering innovators, creating change

At ACEin, we don’t just talk about innovation—we make it happen. Our mission is simple: to empower visionaries, transform research into impactful businesses, and build a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem. As an independent unit, we have the flexibility to design cutting-edge programs that address real market challenges, supporting early-stage startups and fostering a mindset of creativity and problem-solving.

10+ years of impact: A thriving innovation ecosystem

For over a decade, we’ve built a community of startups, corporate partners, investors, and mentors—solidifying our role as a key player in Greece’s entrepreneurship landscape. From specialized acceleration programs to open innovation challenges, we guide entrepreneurs at every stage, helping them at every stage—from idea validation to scaling their businesses.

Bridging research with entrepreneurship

As part of AUEB, we place a strong emphasis on research commercialization, helping university-driven innovations reach the market. Through tailored support, we assist researchers in protecting their intellectual property, forming industry partnerships, and creating spin-offs, ensuring that academic research has real impact.

What we offer: Your path to success​

At ACEin, we provide a structured approach to entrepreneurship and innovation, equipping researchers, students, and startups with the right tools, knowledge, and support to succeed. Our expertise spans across multiple areas, ensuring a holistic, hands-on, and results-driven experience.

From Idea to Market:

We guide entrepreneurs through every stage of innovation — from ideation and business model development to prototyping and market validation.

Access to Top Talent

We connect businesses with high-potential researchers, professionals, and startups to foster collaboration and accelerate innovation.

Bridging Research with Industry

We help researchers commercialize their work by facilitating partnerships with industry leaders and supporting research-driven entrepreneurship.

Hands-on Acceleration

Through tailored programs, workshops, and mentorship, we support early-stage startups in refining their business strategies and scaling their ventures.

Real-World Testing

We provide Proof of Concept (PoC) opportunities, allowing startups to test and validate their solutions in real market conditions.

Experienced Facilitation Team

Our team mentors, many of whom are PhD-educated professionals, provide strategic guidance and support throughout the entrepreneurial journey.

Meet the team

Behind ACEin is a passionate team of experts, mentors, and entrepreneurs, all dedicated to helping you succeed. Get to know the people driving innovation forward!

Katerina Pramatari

Scientific Coordinator

Angeliki Karagiannaki

Managing Director

Stratos Baloutsos

Head of Technology Transfer Office

Vasiliki Chronaki

Head of Incubator

Marianna Galani

Angelos Athanasiou

Chief Financial Officer

Vasiliki Koniakou

Law and Technology Expert

Lila Despotidou

Innovation Commercialization & Business Development

Andreas Zerkoulis

Startup Teams Growth Specialist

Rania Lianou

Communication Manager

Mara Doukidi

Startup Teams Growth Specialist

Asterios Poulios

Community Responsible

Despoina Adamopoulou

Project Assistant & Marketing Specialist

Christina Kosta

Junior Project Manager

Sofia Papanika

Project Manager

Stamatina Chrysocheri

Administrative Assistant