Memorandum of Understanding Signed between the Hellenic Centre for Defence Innovation (HCDI S.A.) and the Federation of Hellenic ICT Enterprises (SEPE)

The Hellenic Centre for Defence Innovation (HCDI S.A.) and the Federation of Hellenic ICT Enterprises (SEPE) are joining forces to support research and development of technologies with applications in the defence sector and for the benefit of the national economy.

During the international digital technology and innovation exhibition Beyond, on Saturday, April 5, HCDI S.A. and SEPE signed a Memorandum of Understanding to collectively, actively and meaningfully contribute to the technological advancement of critical areas such as Defence and Economy, for the benefit of Greek citizens.

The Memorandum of Understanding was signed on behalf of HCDI by its CEO, Mr. Pantelis Tzortzakis, and on behalf of SEPE by the Chairwoman of the Board of Directors, Ms. Giota Paparidou.

More specifically, HCDI and SEPE are entering into a strategic partnership focused on the following areas: 
 

• Promoting research and the application of artificial intelligence for the development of advanced solutions that can support national security and enhance critical sectors of the economy.

• Supporting the creation of innovative products and services that can be applied across various economic sectors.

• Utilizing reputable scientific and business professionals for evaluating proposals or projects of mutual interest.  

• Strengthening the cooperation between Greek industried, digital technology enterprises, and academic institutions.

• Establishing strategic partnerships with international organizations and institutions to promote dual-use innovation.

• Supporting the Armed Forces as well as the Security Agencies and Civil Protection with technological solutions that can improve their operational readiness and effectiveness.

   

At the same time, this collaboration will foster the knowledge exchange and best practices through seminars and workshops, and will help create a favorable environment for the development of innovative start-ups and SMEs in the dual-use technology sector.

SEPE President Ms. Giota Paparidou welcomed the collaboration between HCDI and SEPE, thanking Mr. Tzortzakis for the excellent partnership. She stated:

“In an era where digital technology is rapidly evolving and opening new pathways to improve everyday life and economic growth, the collaboration between SEPE and HCDI lays a solid foundation to strengthen the domestic Defence Industry, the competitiveness of Greek enterprises, and the national economy. At the same time, it enhances our joint efforts to promote research and innovation, leverage cutting-edge expertise and rich research output in both fields, benefiting the Greek society and the national economy.”

On his part, the CEO of HCDI, Mr. Pantelis Tzortzakis, emphasized:

“At HCDI, we invest in the power of partnerships and firmly believe that Greece can take a leading role as a center of technology and defence excellence with a global outlook. Our collaboration with SEPE, of which I have the honor of being Honorary President, is a strategic step in that direction and a tangible expression of our commitment to making this vision a reality.”

For more information about HCDI’s initiatives, visit: www.elkak.gr
For more information about SEPE, visit: www.sepe.gr

About HCDI

The Hellenic Centre for Defence Innovation (HCDI S.A.) is established as a Société Anonyme, with the Ministry of National Defence and the Hellenic Corporation of Assets and Participations (Growth Fund) as its shareholders. HCDI is charged with cultivating a robust domestic defence innovation ecosystem capable of fulfilling Greece’s national security needs. It focuses on soliciting R&D contracts for dual-use technologies that can enhance the country’s operational capabilities in defence and enable economic growth. It bridges startups, small and medium-sized enterprises, research centers, military academies, Universities and established commercial and defence industry companies with the Hellenic Armed Forces, Security Agencies, and Civil Protection, using financial and non-financial tools to drive more collaboration and to accelerate the transformation of innovative ideas into cutting-edge defence solutions. HCDI is supervised by the Minister of National Defence. For more information, visit www.elkak.gr

About SEPE

SEPE -The Federation of Hellenic ICT Enterprises- was founded in February 1995 with the aim of strengthening the sector and creating strong ties of cooperation and communication among its member companies.

As an institutional partner of the state, SEPE aims towards the optimal use of benefits that Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) can bring to the development of Greek economy and the welfare of Greek society.

SEPE members are companies in the Digital Technology sector which provide work to over 100,000 people and represent approximately 95% of the total turnover of the domestic IT and Communication Technologies market. The total turnover of the sector in the last 3 years is around €13.5 billion, which corresponds to approximately 8% of GDP.

Carrying out complex work at many levels, SEPE intervenes dynamically, in the planning, research, promotion and recognition of the potential of companies in the sector inside and outside Greece.

SEPE is at the forefront of international developments as a member of DIGITALEUROPE and WITSA (World Innovation, Technology and Services Alliance).