On April 3rd 2026, the Focus Group meeting organized by the Industrial Systems Institute / Athena Research Center in the framework of the European project HELIX-SMART– Excellence Hubs Enhancing Linkages and Innovation for Cross-border Ecosystems and SMART Transition was successfully held. The event took place at the Innovation Hub of the Region of Western Greece (formerly the Agricultural School of Patras).

The Focus Group, entitled 'Evaluation of the Innovation and Smart Transition Ecosystem', highlighted the importance of systematically capturing and strengthening regional innovation ecosystems in the context of sustainable and smart growth.

Distinguished representatives from governance bodies, such as the Region of Western Greece, participated in the event, along with members of the academic and research community and innovation organizations. Among them were Professor and Vice President of the Special Account for Research Funds of the Hellenic Open University, Mr. Evangelos Koumanakos, Professor Spyros Sioutas from the University of Patras, as well as the Computer Technology Institute and Press “Diophantus”, the Patras Science Park, SEVPDE, the PRAXI Network, and others.

 The event was opened with the remarks of Professor Chrysostomos Stylios, Scientific Director of the project, who welcomed the participants and underlined the importance of the active participation of all stakeholders in shaping a strong and effective innovation ecosystem.

Subsequently, Associate Professor and Scientific Associate of the project, Ms. Ioanna Giannoukou, presented in detail the purpose of the meeting, emphasizing the importance of evaluating the existing innovation ecosystem, as well as the main objectives of the HELIX-SMART project. In particular, she highlighted the project's priorities for strengthening digital skills, promoting innovation and supporting sustainable development, setting the stage for a fruitful and meaningful debate among the participants.

The event was moderated by Mr. Nasos Koskinas, CEO and founder of POS4work.

The event included a presentation of the methodology for evaluating innovation ecosystems, which is based on nine thematic dimensions, as well as a demonstration of the relevant evaluation questionnaire.During the discussion, all the questions in the questionnaire were presented in detail, giving the participants the opportunity to express their views on specific topics. The interventions were characterised by informed opinions, substantive comments and targeted suggestions, actively contributing to the improvement of both the structure and content of the evaluation tool. This interactive process has enhanced the quality of the results, ensuring that the final tool will respond to the real needs and specificities of the regional ecosystem. The tool will be used jointly across the project’s implementation area in Greece and Italy.

Participation in the Group has been particularly dynamic, both from those attending in person and those participating online, enhancing dialogue and the exchange of knowledge and experience. This action constitutes another important step towards strengthening innovation and smart transition in the Region of Western Greece, contributing to the formulation of effective development policies and strategies.

The Industrial Systems Institute, the Chamber of Achaia, and the Ionian University (lead partner) participate as partners in the European project HELIX-SMART – Excellence Hubs Enhancing Linkages and Innovation for Cross-border Ecosystems and SMART Transition, which is implemented within the framework of the Greece–Italy Programme 2021–2027.

The ultimate aim of the HELIX-SMART project is to support the digital and sustainable transition of SMEs and the self-employed in Greece and Italy. Through the development of innovative tools and infrastructures, the project seeks to address digital skills gaps and enhance the competitiveness of enterprises. Living Labs and digital training and simulation platforms play a central role, enabling the experimental development and testing of innovative solutions with reduced risk. Finally, the project aims to create a strong cross-border cooperation ecosystem between businesses, public bodies and academic institutions.