Huffington Post
June 7, 2012
Stories of Greek 'doom' are widespread. In many ways, rightfully so: Greece is in crisis, a fact that is universally acknowledged. Yet this narrative glosses over the work of the people, unassociated with institutions or politics, who are proving that Greeks have the strength to rebuild their country.
Shaking the 'Crisis' Label
"It's hard." That is how Peter Economides, a leading brand strategist of Greek origin, describes seeing his country lampooned in the press. His solution: rebrand Greece, create an image that can transcend the 'crisis' label, and change the future of the country. In 2012, he launched an initiative called 'Ginetai' (53:18 onward) meaning, 'it is possible,' to support rebuilding Greece. Ginetai aims to showcase and inspire Greek ideas by providing an exhibition and conference space as well as investors, mentors and advisors who will be present to help innovators understand the complex status quo in Greece. The country is in trouble, Mr. Economides argues, and only inspiration, identity, and innovation can get it out.
In 2011, Panos Zamanis created the Hellenic Start-Up Association (HSA) with the goal of changing how Greeks thought about business by providing support to new startups through a network of professionals and events. Similarly, coLab workspace, created in 2012, provides startups with cheap office space, meeting rooms, training events and a network of successful business connections to motivate innovation. They have yet to have a business fail and have managed to help set up Athens StartUp Weekend, Greece Entrepreneur Week and Ignite Athens -- all events to promote entrepreneurship.
Entrepreneurship and innovation seem almost herculean tasks in the current Greek context, but some dare to defy the odds. This is the sort of innovation Greece needs.
More
No comments:
Post a Comment