The Context and the Need
In recent years, the Region of Epirus had been actively seeking ways to activate a more interconnected, collaborative, and future-oriented innovation ecosystem.
Despite the strong academic foundation of the University of Ioannina and the presence of technologically advanced companies in the region, one critical element was missing: a shared, community-driven physical innovation space that could bring together startups, businesses, researchers, educators, students, and innovation stakeholders under one roof.
The challenge was not a lack of talent or ideas. It was the absence of a central hub capable of transforming fragmented activity into a vibrant innovation ecosystem.
Creating JOIST Innovation Space Ioannina
JOIST Innovation Space Ioannina was created to fill this gap. Built upon JOIST’s proven innovation ecosystem development model, the space was designed as a daily meeting point for technology, education, and entrepreneurship. Within it, innovation is not an occasional event, but a daily experience.
Located in the heart of the city of Ioannina—a city with deep historical roots and a vibrant academic community—JOIST Innovation Space strengthens the city’s emerging role as one of Greece’s most dynamic regional technology hubs.
In collaboration with the Hellenic Institute of Packaging and Safety of Agrifood Products (HIPSAP), JOIST Innovation Space Ioannina offers a comprehensive portfolio of services, including:
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Educational programs and events for children, pupils, students, and professionals
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Workshop and meeting spaces
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A modern Makers Space for experimentation and hands-on technology application
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Innovation and digital transformation services for small and medium-sized enterprises and organizations
Measurable Impact in Less Than Two Years
In less than two years of active operation, JOIST Innovation Space Ioannina has achieved tangible and measurable results:
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15+ startups and SMEs in active collaboration
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15+ innovation- and technology-focused events
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20+ schools hosted at JOIST Ioannina
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500+ pupils and students inspired through experiential technology and innovation activities
What began as a local initiative quickly evolved into a reference point for innovation in Epirus, demonstrating that regional ecosystems can grow rapidly when supported by the right model.
Activating the Ecosystem Through Flagship Initiatives
JOIST Innovation Space Ioannina actively participated in high-impact regional and national initiatives, such as:
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Zagori Forum
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CASSINI / Copernicus Hackathon
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TEDx Mavili Square
At the same time, JOIST hosted and curated internal meetups and discussions around cutting-edge technologies and sectors, including:
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Blockchain & Decentralized Autonomous Organizations (DAOs)
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Artificial Intelligence
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Agri-food Innovation
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Engineering and Applied Sciences
Through these activities, technological curiosity spread throughout the local community, transforming isolated audiences into active participants in innovation.
Networking as a Growth Lever
Networking is a core pillar of JOIST. JOIST Innovation Space Ioannina has developed strong and long-lasting partnerships within the local and regional innovation ecosystem through:
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Collaborations with social economy organizations across Epirus
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Hosting visits from international technology companies operating in the region
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Strategic partnerships with:
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the Innovation & Entrepreneurship Unit (MOKE) of the University of Ioannina
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the broader Research & Innovation ecosystem of the University of Ioannina
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the iGEM Ioannina team
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These partnerships ensure that the innovation space operates not in isolation, but as an integral hub of the regional ecosystem.
Why This Case Study Matters for the JOIST Franchise Program
The success of JOIST Innovation Space Ioannina proves that a structured and proven innovation space model can thrive beyond major urban centers.
Regional ecosystems can be rapidly activated when community, education, and entrepreneurship are aligned. JOIST’s scalable and adaptable approach is designed precisely to ensure this outcome.
This case study serves as a guide for creating sustainable and dynamic innovation hubs in Greece and internationally.
Let’s Create the Next Innovation Space
JOIST Innovation Space Ioannina demonstrates what is possible. Through the JOIST Innovation Franchise Program, you don’t start from scratch.
You build upon a model that works—adapted to the needs of the local community and supported by the right partners.
We support you at every step, from space creation and ecosystem activation to connecting with startups, education, and industry leaders.
Become a franchise partner and create an Innovation Space or Innovation Park in your city—where ideas grow, people connect, and the future is shaped.