Panathēnea
Panathēnea is a nonprofit organization founded in 2024 in Athens, dedicated to uniting creators from around the world across technology, art, and startups. Inspired by ancient Greek tradition, its mission is to identify and support founders and pioneers building a better future, while establishing Athens as a global meeting point where bold ideas are born and grow.
Introduction & utilization of donation
With the support of the Helidoni Foundation, received in January 2026, Panathēnea Festival, an annual event first launched in spring 2025 and organized by students and recent graduates. The festival is a modern reimagination of the ancient celebration, bringing together the ecosystems of technology, art, and entrepreneurship through discussions, exhibitions, startup competitions, networking events, and cultural experiences.
Following a sold-out first year with more than 3,100 participants from 44 countries, the 2026 edition will take place on May 27–29, 2026, at the Zappeion Megaron, with plans to expand the program to approximately 70 sector-specific and community side events across the city. The grant will contribute to covering part of the production company costs required for the successful implementation of the festival.
Panathēnea’s long-term vision is to grow into a week-long umbrella festival with multiple parallel events across Athens, focusing on innovation, business, and culture. The goal is to establish Panathēnea as a globally recognized event, positioning Athens alongside leading international gatherings such as Slush, Web Summit, and SXSW, while strengthening Greece’s startup ecosystem and reinforcing the city’s role as an international hub for creativity and innovation.
Explore more of our programs
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