Development Minister Takis Theodorikakos announced that funding for the Hellenic Foundation for Research and Innovation is integrated into the ministry's four-year development program.
The announcement followed a meeting between Theodorikakos and leadership figures from the foundation, known as ELIDEK. Attendees included Dimitris Vergados, president of the plenary assembly of ELIDEK, Georgia Andreou, president of the scientific council of the foundation, and Giorgos Karydakis, director of the foundation. Dimitris Terzis, secretary general of research and innovation, was also present.
The decision by the Minister of Development forms part of a broader plan to strengthen research and innovation. The plan emphasizes utilizing scientific knowledge, connecting research with production, and creating new development opportunities through transparent procedures and evaluation of actions.
Program Funding and Leadership Meeting
Following the meeting on August 5, 2026, Theodorikakos stated that the government supports research, innovation, and researchers through plan and actions. He said the objective is the productive transformation of the economy, increased productivity and competitiveness, and the strengthening of social cohesion.
Theodorikakos said that the full programming of the Hellenic Foundation for Research and Innovation is being integrated into the Ministry of Development's Sectoral Development Program for the 2026 to 2030 period. Specific details of the programming will be finalized in cooperation with the foundation's leadership.
Strategic Priorities for Research
The minister stated that the government wants research funding to be spent effectively with transparency and evaluation. An immediate priority is the creation of a digital national repository for research work, aimed at improving utilization by disseminating research results.
Theodorikakos also highlighted the creation of flagship centers of excellence and innovation as an immediate priority. These centers will involve partnerships between universities, research institutes, and businesses to ensure research yields innovative products and services that impact the economy and society while competing internationally.
