Small Enterprises in Athens’ Historic Center to Get Support

Photo source: Municipality of Athens

Athens Mayor Kostas Bakoyannis pledged this week to support 111 small businesses operating in the city’s historic center with 2.3 million euros in funds.

Bakoyannis said the program, part of the “Athens Business Green Toolkit” launched last summer by the municipality, offers subsidies for energy upgrades of infrastructure and equipment which will help reduce energy and operating costs.

He added that it would also give small enterprises a “breath of air and secure environmental benefits” for the city.

“At a time when the energy crisis is becoming a key factor in the survival of small businesses, we are utilizing EU resources to support the market and offer economic relief to businesses in the historic center,” said Bakoyannis.

“With targeted green interventions, we are creating the conditions for a sustainable Athens and at the same time making a dynamic contribution to the strengthening of the city’s economy,” he added.

Photo source: Municipality of Athens

Under the program, small operations located in the city center and active in tourism, education, advertising, publishing, manufacturing, and F&B are eligible for as much as 80 percent of total investment budget (from 5,000 euros to 30,000 euros) to go toward for energy upgrades. Eligible interventions include thermal insulation, window and door replacement, shading, lighting and building infrastructure.