Inauguration of the Aegean Neorion Innovation Center (ANIC)

On January 18, 2023, the Aegean Neorion Innovation Center (ANIC) was officially opened in its specially designed facilities in Ermoupoli, Syros. The ANIC initiative is a collaboration between the ONEX Group, the Region of South Aegean, technology provider CISCO, strategic partner COSMOTE, and the University of the Aegean, as an educational partner.

The opening was attended by government representatives, local officials, and the US ambassador to Greece, George Tsounis, highlighting the significance of ANIC in the region.

ANIC is a modern and dynamic hub for technology and innovation, set to become a leading cradle for high-value technological solutions in the region and nationwide. Its aim is to generate knowledge and drive digital technology adoption in local communities, spanning across sectors such as education, health, the environment, and new technologies. At the same time, ANIC is dedicated to elevating Syros' digital footprint through innovative initiatives and actions.

The DT&S and ANIC are two complementary and synergistic hubs. Their collaboration leverages the full potential of both entities, allowing for the seamless integration of solutions and projects. The DT&S ecosystem brings a wealth of technological knowledge and experience to the table, making it an invaluable asset for ANIC from day one. By working together, the two centers will drive the advancement of technology and innovation for the betterment of communities across local and national spheres.

CISCO's participation in ANIC includes a direct connection to Cisco’s Digital Transformation and Skills Center of Thessaloniki (DT&S Corner), allowing ANIC to benefit from the company's successful innovation projects in Thessaloniki such as smart cities, telemedicine, teleworking, and telelearning.

U.S. Ambassador to Greece, George Tsounis, said: "It is a privilege to be at the official opening of the Aegean Neorion Innovation Center. I am particularly pleased to see that two American companies, Onex and Cisco, are collaborating with our Greek partners—the South Aegean Region, the University of the Aegean, and Cosmote—to establish this center, which will bring tangible benefits to the community by generating jobs and contributing to the region's prosperity. With its cutting-edge American technology and its location in the heart of Greece's renowned shipbuilding industry, I am confident that this center will further transform Syros into a modern maritime hub. Together, we will unlock this region's full potential."

The Governor of the Region of the South Aegean, Giorgos Hatzimarkos, said: "In the Region, we believe in partnerships. The Aegean Neorion Innovation Center of Syros is a prime example of the successful collaboration between the private sector, the state, and our region. Our goal is to create a sustainable future for our islands. A future in which the islands of the South Aegean are places where people can live, work, innovate, invest, start families, and fulfill their dreams. The future is already here in the islands of the South Aegean, and it's a better, brighter, and more optimistic one. A future where we're no longer just spectators but active drivers and shapers."

ONEX Group President and CEO, Panos Xenokostas, said: "ONEX Group is making steady progress in establishing the Aegean Neorion Innovation Center in Syros, reinforcing its commitment to enhance the country's and the Aegean islands' digital capabilities. We're turning Syros into an innovation and research hub, a place that attracts global citizens by providing ideal conditions and top-notch infrastructure for work, education, and leisure. Our project is designed to serve citizens and businesses, helping them overcome daily challenges. ONEX is assuming a leading role in both the shipyard and research and innovation sectors."

Antonis Tsiboukis, Managing Director of CISCO for Greece, Cyprus, Malta, and Portugal, stated, "The Syros innovation center is another demonstration of CISCO's commitment to driving digital transformation in the country. It aligns with our philosophy of putting mutual understanding, interconnection, and collaboration with the business and institutional ecosystem at the core of our business planning. Today, we are proud to be at the forefront of another important initiative based on innovative technological solutions and skills that can contribute to the growth of the shipping industry and our island nation."

The Chief Commercial Officer of OTE Group, Mr. Grigoris Christopoulos, stated: "As a technology leader, the OTE Group is dedicated to advancing research and innovation. By supporting the Aegean Neorion Innovation Center in Syros, the Group aims to spur the digital transformation of the shipping industry, which is vital to our country, and highlight the potential of our islands. With technology as a tool and its extensive experience in complex IT and telecommunications projects, the OTE Group is guiding the country and society into the new digital age and creating a better world for everyone."

Ms. Chryssi Vitsilaki, the Rector of the University of the Aegean, commented: "Our goal of establishing a Center for International Innovation is strengthened by our latest initiative, the Future Labs, which aim to transfer and promote research and development activities of the University of the Aegean to local communities, in line with our broader strategy for scientific and technological progress and excellence. The Future Lab of the Polytechnic School in Syros, located in the Kornilaki building, aims to familiarize society and professionals with digital technologies and their practical applications in the workplace and daily life. The Future Lab of Syros works with local businesses and organizations through the University of the Aegean's Office of Technology Transfer to develop digital transformation services and products in the tourism, culture, primary and secondary sectors, and in entrepreneurship related to Blue Growth."

The inauguration of ANIC is a major step forward in the development of technology and innovation in the South Aegean and a shining partnership example between between government, business, and educational institutions.