Less than two weeks are left for interested SMEs to submit their applications for participation in the OPAP Forward programme, as the deadline is Friday, 14 July 2023, at 12 noon.

The submission of applications for participation is done online via the www.opapcsr.gr.

Companies selected to attend the sixth cycle of the programme will gain a unique perspective on:

• grow
• create new jobs
• and thus strengthen the Greek market

The programme OPAP Forward

In particular, the programme will provide them with:

• Comprehensive guidance through a network of successful entrepreneurs and senior market executives
• Training seminars in areas such as strategy, finance and HR management, marketing and sales, branding and communication
• Access to financial instruments in cooperation with the National Bank of Greece
• Access to international markets
• Networking activities both with other participants and with other entrepreneurs

Selection criteria for new companies

The OPAP Forward programme is aimed at growing SMEs with a turnover of less than EUR 50 million euros, irrespective of the sector in which they operate.

Particular emphasis is placed on those areas where Greece has a competitive advantage, such as:

• the food and drink sector
• the industry
• trade and catering
• tourism
• the retail
• agricultural production
• and in sectors with growth potential, such as new technologies

Improved economic performance and new jobs

Specifically, the participating companies have managed to create 2,847 new direct jobs and, through the partnerships developed, support 23,083 new indirect jobs. At the same time, the their total turnover increased by 470 million euros, according to the financial data of the enterprises themselves.