Through its support of the StartSmart SEE initiative, the company actively strengthens a dynamic support network for start-ups, guiding young entrepreneurs in Southeast Europe from their first steps to attracting investment.
Technological innovation lies at the heart of Qualco Intelligent Finance’s DNA, providing alternative financing solutions via technology-driven platforms that function as integrated financial services ecosystems. Its support of StartSmart SEE aligns with this strategy, fostering an environment where young entrepreneurs can access valuable tools, international networks, and specialised knowledge.
"We want to be present where technology develops and entrepreneurship evolves. Our collaboration with StartSmart SEE is such a commitment," explains Giorgos Kazos, CEO of Qualco Intelligent Finance and Deputy CEO of the Qualco Group.
StartSmart SEE, rooted in the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), operates as a hub connecting academic knowledge with practical business action. Through innovation competitions, accelerator programmes, mentoring, and networking, it has supported more than 300 start-ups across Southeast Europe. The organisation has attracted over €400 million in investment, created more than 1,000 jobs, and fostered a dynamic environment for technological entrepreneurship.
As Mr Kazos notes, "Entrepreneurship driven by technological advancement requires solid foundations and outward-looking perspectives. The ecosystem that StartSmart SEE builds embodies exactly this model, and we are proud to support it actively."
A landmark moment for StartSmart SEE was the co-organisation of the Universal AI Summit with MIT — an internationally significant initiative held in Athens on 8 July 2025. The summit focused on the need for equitable access to education in artificial intelligence, setting the ambitious goal of making AI knowledge and understanding available to one billion people worldwide.
With a clear focus on enhancing technological and entrepreneurial knowledge, Qualco Intelligent Finance invests in partnerships that empower the people behind innovative ideas. By aiming for a positive and lasting impact, the company actively shapes an open, fair, and sustainable economic model, with technological progress at its core.
