In a global environment where artificial intelligence is redefining every aspect of the modern economy and society, AIForum26 returns in Athens, serving as the central platform for dialogue, networking, and the highlighting of domestic innovation.
The conference is co-organized by AI Catalyst and ethosEVENTS, establishing the benchmark event for the Greek Artificial Intelligence ecosystem, AI Catalyst’s partners and members, as well as the broader business community.
The perspective of AIForum26 extends beyond theoretical discussion and policy-making, focusing directly and practically on how and to what extent artificial intelligence can boost economic productivity and drive economic growth through its meaningful implementation in Greek enterprises of all sizes. The conference aims to equip participants with the necessary tools, knowledge, and strategic connections to comprehend current developments and directly benefit from the new technological reality.
AIForum26 will be held on November 5, 2026, organized by AI Catalyst, in collaboration with ethosEVENTS, in person at the Divani Caravel and online through the LiveOn Events+.
Structure
It is a dynamic, one-day conference structured around parallel stages and specialized zones:
- Stage A — Thematic Tracks: High-level discussions featuring institutional, business, and technology leaders.
- Stage B — 15-Minute Presentations: Concise, targeted presentations by selected companies, startups, and spin-offs showcasing innovation in practice.
- B2B Zone & Exhibition: A parallel zone featuring exhibition booths, matchmaking, and structured B2B meetings designed to foster strategic partnerships.
AIForum26 is organized by AI Catalyst in collaboration with ethosEVENTS.
AI Catalyst is a non-profit organization whose main goal is to promote and increase understanding of Artificial Intelligence (AI) within Greek society and the business world. The vision of AI Catalyst is to play a significant role in harnessing and democratizing the unlimited potential of Artificial Intelligence, within the framework shaped by ethics, transparency, and justice, through actions that connect research with industry and production.
ethosEVENTS, a member of the ethosGROUP, primarily focuses on organizing business conferences, awards ceremonies, and other innovative events. It organizes over 20 conferences & business awards annually, both in person and online through the LiveOn Events+.
Parallel Events Hall
In the Parallel Events Hall, companies, researchers, and other AI professionals will present real-world AI applications and methodologies across the industries listed below.
- Pharma / Health
- Fintech
- Retail
- Culture & Tourism
- Maritime
- Defence
The Conference included targeted individual speeches and discussion panels on the following topics:
SESSION 1: AI Infrastructure & Data
Panel 1: From Data to Super-Infrastructures: Building Greece’s AI Ecosystem
This session focuses on building the technological backbone required for AI development in Greece. It examines the expansion of domestic data centers, access to computing power and high-performance infrastructure (such as the “DAEDALUS” supercomputer and the “PHAROS” AI factory), and strategies for data availability, quality, and secure sharing across public and private sectors (data spaces). Additionally, key topics include cybersecurity, digital sovereignty, and the energy sustainability of critical data infrastructure.
SESSION 2: AI Skills
Panel 2: Cultivating AI Talent: upskilling, reskilling & emerging professional skills
This session addresses human capital empowerment and talent attraction in the AI era. Discussions cover bridging academia with enterprise needs, brain gain strategies to retain and repatriate scientific talent, and structured upskilling and reskilling initiatives across the workforce. Furthermore, it explores the democratization of generative AI tools for non-technical staff and the cultural/organizational shifts required for future workplace roles.
SESSION 3: Funding AI Opportunities
Panel 3: Investing in the Future of AI: from Venture Capital to Development Programs and Bank Financing
This session maps out the financing landscape for developing and scaling AI innovations. It explores investment trends from Venture Capital, Private Equity, and Corporate VC funds, alongside the leverage of EU and national resources (Horizon Europe, RRF, NSRF/ESPA). Additionally, it highlights specialized banking instruments, debt/guarantee solutions (HDB, EIB), and blended finance mechanisms aimed at driving startups from lab prototypes to international market success.
SESSION 4: AI Digital Transformation & Governance
Panel 4: AI Digital Transformation & Governance: strategy, implementation & responsible AI
This session addresses the practical integration and regulation of AI across the public and private sectors. Key topics include compliance with the EU AI Act, corporate governance, ethical frameworks, algorithmic risk management, and data privacy (GDPR). Moreover, it examines process automation to eliminate administrative friction, building public trust, and aligning AI deployment with environmental and social sustainability (ESG) goals.
SESSION 5: AI Future
Panel 5: The next day of AI: technology, society & national strategy
The closing session synthesizes the long-term vision for Artificial Intelligence. It focuses on emerging technological trends, the evolution of a comprehensive national strategy, and the broader societal impact. The discussion highlights the institutional dialogue between government, academia, and industry, ensuring social cohesion, and positioning Greece strategically in the global technological landscape of tomorrow.
Why Participate
- Market Mapping: Gain a comprehensive overview of Greece’s current standing in AI and discover emerging trends.
- Networking & Synergies: Conduct targeted B2B meetings and build new professional partnerships.
- Knowledge Transfer: Explore real-world case studies, applications, and solutions that translate technology from the lab to the market.
- Access to Talent & Skills: Connect with specialized teams, researchers, and highly qualified professionals.
Who Should Attend
The conference is designed to address the full spectrum of the ecosystem and the market:
- C-Level Executives & Leadership of Enterprise Organizations seeking digital transformation strategies and process optimization.
- Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) looking to understand how artificial intelligence can enhance their competitiveness.
- Startups, Spin-offs, & Tech Professionals developing cutting-edge technological solutions.
- Investors, Venture Capital Funds, & Angel Investors seeking the next investment opportunity in local innovation.
- Institutional Bodies, Public Sector Officials, & Policy Makers shaping the national and regulatory framework.
- Research & Academic Community bridging primary research with commercial application.
VENUE
At the “Divani Caravel Hotel”, Athens, Greece
easily accessible by car or by Public Transport.
Leof. Vasileos Alexandrou, 2, 16121
Athens, Greece