In recent years, Greece has become an increasingly attractive proposition for investors.
Greece’s rising economy is boosting its global profile. The European Commission is forecasting GDP growth of over 2% for both this year and next, while inflation and public debt are on the decline. The country has already received multiple EU Recovery Fund grants and loans – around €18 billion since 2021 – and is eligible for further support. The European Investment Bank committed €2.2 billion of new financing in 2024 for projects including energy, SME growth, innovation and green transition. Greece has also regained investment-grade ratings from several major agencies.
An EU-backed ‘Golden Visa’ residency-by-investment programme is also playing a part in encouraging inward investment. The scheme offers visa-free travel to Europe, in exchange for a qualifying real estate investment, and a pathway to Greek citizenship. In parallel, the government is promoting sectors with significant growth potential, including renewables, digital infrastructure, tourism and logistics. Given these conditions – robust economic indicators, declining debt, access to EU funding and an improved policy framework – together with the lifestyle attractions of this safe and stable Mediterranean location, Greece offers a favourable risk-return profile for investors looking at medium- to long-term opportunities.
Enterprise Greece is leading investor engagement in a nation primed for strategic growth.
As one of the fastest-growing economies in Europe, Greece offers overseas investors a tempting proposition. Comprehensive reforms to the tax and legislative framework have resulted in a raft of financial and regulatory incentives designed to maximise support and expedite strategic investments—especially in booming sectors like real estate, tourism and renewables. “Our objective is to create an investment environment that is both competitive and predictable,” explains CEO Marinos Giannopoulos, “a place where strategic investors see long-term opportunity supported by a government committed to reform and stability.”
Enterprise Greece’s success in establishing the country as both a strategic entry point to the region and a compelling choice for foreign direct investment (FDI) is reaping significant rewards. German companies looking to expand their footprint, tap into talent and innovate in a supportive ecosystem are finding a wealth of opportunities here—reflected in the fact that Germany is now the second-largest source of FDI in Greece, with investments in high-value sectors such as R&D, life sciences and logistics. “Greece is open, competitive and ready,” says Giannopoulos. “Whether you are an investor seeking opportunities in fast-growing sectors, a policymaker building strategic European alliances or a traveller looking for inspiration, you will find in Greece a place of resilience, creativity and connection.”
Portugal has become increasingly attractive to international investors seeking a strategic European location with a thriving economy.
In recent years, Portugal has become a magnet for inward investment. Tourism has always been one of the country’s key strengths, but Portugal now also boasts one of the most dynamic entrepreneurial ecosystems in Europe, thanks to a skilled workforce, competitive operational costs and impressive technology infrastructure. Minister for Education, Sciences and Innovation Fernando Alexandre talks here about Portugal’s unique and growing appeal for investors.
Q: What makes Portugal such an investment hotspot?
I think Portugal has entered a virtuous cycle. The improvement in workforce education, the reputation and capacity of our higher education institutions and the strength of our scientific and technological system in producing high-quality research and knowledge—all of this is becoming more visible internationally and is having an impact on the economy.
Q: What is the potential for German investment?
There are already many successful German investment projects, including Siemens, Volkswagen and Bosch. If investors want to come to Portugal, they know they will find talented engineers, universities and research centres open to collaboration. We are also able to produce low-cost energy from sustainable sources. For firms looking to operate with low carbon emissions and minimal pollution, Portugal is the right place to do it.
Q: How are you promoting innovation?
Education is the foundation for change, and Portugal is very committed to building a real European education and research union. The aim is to provide solutions for the challenges we are facing—both in Europe and in Portugal—and to transform our economy. We have strong examples of turning knowledge and science into products, services and companies. We must think globally, contribute to European solutions and invest accordingly. And we are doing that.
Founded in 2015, Altar.io has quickly become a key player in the startup ecosystem, offering a unique approach to product development. “Founders often assume others will love their product simply because they do,” explains Daniel de Castro Ruivo, co-founder and CEO. “Our role is to challenge it.”
Altar’s model is based on deep collaboration with clients. “We act like an extended founding team,” says Ruivo. “It creates a culture of shared belief.” This approach has attracted global brands like YouTube and HSBC. “Clients often say the best thing about working with us is that we feel like real partners. We’re fully invested in their success.”
Today, Altar’s 40-plus specialists have delivered over 100 minimum viable products across sectors from fintech to social-impact AI. “Working across industries builds a mental toolbox. A solution from one field becomes a fresh insight in another.” Crucial to this success is the company’s highly selective process. “Out of hundreds of leads, we select around 20,” Ruivo notes. “We challenge the vision before we say yes.”
Portugal itself adds to the appeal. Its thriving tech scene and beneficial time zone are a significant draw for investors. “Portugal has real advantages,” says Ruivo. “We have strong tech universities and a growing pool of international engineers. Investment numbers are growing; it’s a validation of the ecosystem. The momentum is real.”
