About Us
Startsmart SEE is committed to empowering the next generation of deep-tech entrepreneurs across South Eastern Europe. We cultivate a resilient ecosystem where entrepreneurship thrives, cutting-edge research becomes market-ready technology, and strategic partnerships accelerate regional and global growth. Our mission is to build a sustainable, future-driven framework for innovation, rooted in excellence, trust and long-term impact.
Timeline
History & evolution
FOUNDING YEAR
Launched as MIT Enterprise Forum Greece, by MIT Alumni, establishing a trusted platform dedicated to technology-driven entrepreneurship and regional innovation
FIRST ACCELERATION PROGRAM
Delivered the first full-cycle accelerator cohort, setting the foundation for a platform that would scale across South Eastern Europe
HELLENIC INNOVATION NETWORK
Strengthened international outreach by launching the Hellenic Innovation Network, building bridges with the Boston-based ecosystem, and connecting Greek and Cypriot startups with global investors and tech leaders.
EYDAP InnoChallenge
Launched the EYDAP Data Innovation Challenge, inviting startups and researchers to build predictive models for water network optimization and meter anomaly detection.
MIT GSW & REBRANDING
Organized the most-attended MIT Global Startup Workshop in history and rebranded as StartSmart South Eastern Europe, marking regional expansion and renewed strategic focus.
MIT UNIVERSAL AI SUMMIT
Co-organized the first MIT Universal AI Summit in Athens with MIT Open Learning, positioning the organization as a central innovation partner for the region
FOUNDING YEAR
Launched as MIT Enterprise Forum Greece, by MIT Alumni, establishing a trusted platform dedicated to technology-driven entrepreneurship and regional innovation
FIRST ACCELERATION PROGRAM
Delivered the first full-cycle accelerator cohort, setting the foundation for a platform that would scale across South Eastern Europe
HELLENIC INNOVATION NETWORK
Strengthened international outreach by launching the Hellenic Innovation Network, building bridges with the Boston-based ecosystem, and connecting Greek and Cypriot startups with global investors and tech leaders.
EYDAP InnoChallenge
Launched the EYDAP Data Innovation Challenge, inviting startups and researchers to build predictive models for water network optimization and meter anomaly detection.
MIT GSW & REBRANDING
Organized the most-attended MIT Global Startup Workshop in history and rebranded as StartSmart South Eastern Europe, marking regional expansion and renewed strategic focus.
MIT UNIVERSAL AI SUMMIT
Co-organized the first MIT Universal AI Summit in Athens with MIT Open Learning, positioning the organization as a central innovation partner for the region
Strategic partner
Global Expertise. Local Impact
Our collaboration with MIT Open Learning provides direct access to world-class knowledge, cutting-edge research, and academically rigorous innovation frameworks. Through this partnership, founders, corporates, and policymakers can engage with globally recognized learning resources, gain deeper insights into emerging technologies, and strengthen their strategic capabilities within a truly international ecosystem.
MIT Partnership Benefits
Key advantages for our ecosystem members
- Access to cutting-edge research Direct connection to global technology and science insights, ensuring our startups and partners stay ahead of emerging trends.
- Global network expansion Opportunities to engage with international mentors, investors, and industry leaders through structured innovation programs.
- Enhanced curriculum development Hands-on learning experiences and MIT-aligned frameworks designed for regional needs, with a focus on practical application and scalability.
- Institutional Knowledge Programs Programs grounded in academic rigor, delivering high-quality content and actionable insights for participants and partner institutions.
- Reputational value and partnership recognition Association with a distinguished brand, helping partners reinforce credibility and attract top-tier talent, stakeholders, and collaborators.
Join us in our mission to foster innovation and entrepreneurship in South Eastern Europe. Whether you’re a startup looking to accelerate your growth, a potential partner or sponsor, or someone intrested in our eventsm we’d love to hear from you.
Join us in our mission to foster innovation and entrepreneurship in South Eastern Europe. Whether you’re a startup looking to accelerate your growth, a potential partner or sponsor, or someone intrested in our eventsm we’d love to hear from you.