Collaboration Between the University of Thessaly, STHEV, JOIST Innovation Park and Institute of Entrepreneurship Development to Support Affected Businesses in Thessaly nbinas@ied.eu September 21, 2023

Collaboration Between the University of Thessaly, STHEV, JOIST Innovation Park and Institute of Entrepreneurship Development to Support Affected Businesses in Thessaly

The recent devastating floods caused by Storm Daniel in all prefectures of Thessaly (Larissa, Magnesia, Trikala and Karditsa) have severely affected businesses, their infrastructure, facilities and activities.

The University of Thessalyexpressing its support within the framework of its capabilities and expertise, in cooperation with the Association of Thessalian Enterprises and Industries – STHEV, JOIST Innovation Park, and Institute of Entrepreneurship Development is taking steps, in the context of the regeneration of the entire region of Thessaly, to help the affected businesses, always with the aim of effectively strengthening and supporting them to remain sustainable.

Addressing the immediate impact of natural disasters on businesses is crucial. Through this collaboration, these organisations will provide free business recovery support programmes and specific training using the latest technologies. The programmes and training will provide the necessary knowledge and access to state-of-the-art toolkits to address the challenges posed by the disaster. In addition, where possible, free work and collaboration space will be made available to host businesses, providing them with the necessary infrastructure and support to recover and rebuild their operations. This is exemplified by the Memoranda of Understanding that the University has signed with both STHEV and JOIST, whereby JOIST Innovation Park and STHEV will make their state-of-the-art facilities available for all education and training, research and development, and business support needs.

At the same time, additional support tools and mechanisms are being developed and will be made available to companies to assist them in the relief and recovery process.

This partnership sends a strong message of solidarity and social contribution. The University of Thessaly, through its collaboration with the Association of Thessalian Enterprises and Industries – STHEV, JOIST Innovation Park and Institute for Entrepreneurship Development, is committed to helping affected businesses face this difficult challenge and regain their momentum.

Needs assessment has already begun. Businesses can call 2410555507 (STHEV, Mr Christos Tsitopoulos) and 2410234422 (JOIST, Ms Sophia Kaltsa) daily from 9:00 to 17:00 to directly communicate their needs and receive information.