MammoCheck, a Cypriot startup, has emerged victorious in the National Bank of Greece’s 16th NBG Business Seeds Innovation and Technology Competition. The event, held in Athens, showcased innovative ideas from 344 entries hailing from Greece, Cyprus, and beyond.
Photo: cyprus-mail.com
Celebrating Innovation in Athens
The annual awards ceremony was a gathering of notable figures from the technology and innovation sectors, including representatives from the National Bank of Greece and Cyprus, various investment organisations, chambers of commerce, and academic institutions. It served as a platform to highlight the entrepreneurial spirit thriving within the region.
Photo: cyprus-mail.com
A Diverse Range of Innovations
This year’s competition recognised a total of 12 teams and companies for their contributions across various fields, including healthcare, artificial intelligence, fintech, and sustainable development. The broad spectrum of entries reflects the vibrant and diverse nature of the innovation landscape in the region.
Highlighting Achievements and Experiences
The event also featured prominent guest speakers, including champion swimmer Apostolos Siskos, who shared insights from his illustrious career. Meanwhile, Alexandros Christodoulakis, CEO of Wealthyhood and last year’s competition winner, reflected on the growth and opportunities he has experienced since his victory.
MammoCheck’s Groundbreaking Solution
MammoCheck is developing a portable medical device that integrates with mobile phones, aiming to improve access to preventive breast cancer screening. This innovative solution seeks to foster early detection and a culture of preventive health through technology, addressing a crucial need in public health.
Support for Innovative Entrepreneurship
The NBG Business Seeds programme, launched in 2010, has established itself as a key support system for innovative entrepreneurship in Greece, Cyprus, and the broader region. It provides funding, mentoring, and developmental opportunities to startups and research teams, helping them mature into successful enterprises.
Strengthening the Cypriot Innovation Ecosystem
The success of MammoCheck illustrates the capabilities inherent within Cyprus’ innovation ecosystem. Phanos Pilakouris, the NBG Business Seeds programme brand ambassador in Cyprus, commented on the significance of this achievement. He stated, “The success of MammoCheck highlights the potential of Cyprus’ innovation ecosystem and confirms that the country possesses the talent and knowledge required to create solutions with international prospects and a meaningful social impact.”
NBG’s Commitment to Development
The National Bank of Greece has maintained a presence in Cyprus since 1910, and has operated as a separate legal entity since 1994. With over 140 employees and branches in Nicosia and Limassol, the bank remains dedicated to supporting innovation and entrepreneurship as essential drivers of sustainable development.
Comprehensive Support for Startups
The NBG Business Seeds initiative encompasses a broad range of support activities aimed at fostering innovative and outward-looking entrepreneurship. This includes financing, education, mentoring, infrastructure, and networking opportunities tailored to startups and teams developing cutting-edge solutions in areas such as fintech, environmental, social and governance (ESG) criteria, artificial intelligence, digital technologies, and business innovation.
