The second phase of the Ignite Ideas 4 program concluded successfully, marking a significant milestone for both startups and individual participants. Two dedicated pitching events took place at Nestlé Hellas’ headquarters in Marousi, during which seven pioneering startups showcased their innovative ideas, competing for the opportunity to co-develop pilot projects with the support of Nestlé.
In parallel, 24 talented university students from top institutions tackled a demanding case study, proposing fresh ideas to successful startups from previous Ignite Ideas cycles. Five of them were selected for internship opportunities at Nestlé Hellas and Goody’s–Everest, a key program partner.
With a focus on delivering forward-thinking solutions in Data Analytics, Environmental Sustainability, Digital Solutions, Consumer Experience, and In-Store Innovation, Ignite Ideas aims to address pressing market challenges through collaboration and entrepreneurship.
The seven startups selected to move forward with pilot implementation are:
🔹 Access4all – A suite of services enhancing accessibility and improving experiences for people with disabilities.
🔹 DT AI – Implementation of Vision AI on production and packaging lines to detect and document defects, improving manufacturing efficiency and reducing costs.
🔹 esi-tools & is.predicted – Advanced statistical, econometric, and machine learning tools to deliver personalized predictive modeling and reveal hidden trends and behavioral patterns.
🔹 Redefine – Sustainable management of discarded glass bottles by reclaiming the sand used in their production.
🔹 SentiGeek – AI-powered customer experience analysis platform that delivers actionable insights to businesses.
🔹 Turn it Green – A mobile app helping users reduce their carbon footprint and better understand the climate impact of their daily habits.
🔹 YoltLabs – An innovative AI algorithm that collects video data to monitor and analyze customer movement in stores and workplaces, aiming to enhance user experience.
The pilot projects will be developed with the active support of Nestlé, ACEin, and a group of participating companies including: Kritikos Supermarkets, Goody’s–Everest, Pet City, Investing for Purpose, Google, McCann, and Convert Group.
The Ignite Ideas program, now in its 4th edition (running since 2018), is delivered in collaboration with the Athens Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation (ACEin) at the Athens University of Economics and Business (AUEB). It offers startups and young innovators an ideal environment to develop and launch their ideas, leveraging expert guidance, corporate know-how, and innovation networks.
By fostering the development of real-world solutions, the program continues to contribute to a more sustainable and inclusive future.
About the Athens Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation (ACEin)
The Athens Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation (ACEin) of AUEB is committed to promoting innovation and entrepreneurship through educational programs, research initiatives, and startup support. Operating for over a decade as an autonomous structure within a public university, ACEin was ranked 69th among Europe’s Top 125 Startup Hubs, according to the Europe’s Leading Startup Hubs 2024 report by Financial Times and Statista.
Contact Information
Technology Transfer, Innovation & Entrepreneurship Unit (ACEin), AUEB
📧 Email: acein@aueb.gr
📞 Tel: +30 210 8203827 / 829
🌐 Website: www.acein.aueb.gr
About Nestlé
Nestlé is the world’s largest food and beverage company, operating in 187 countries with over 270,000 employees globally. The Group is driven by a clear purpose: unlocking the power of food to enhance quality of life for everyone, today and for generations to come.
With a wide portfolio of over 2,000 brands, Nestlé offers products and services for people and their pets across all life stages. Its offerings range from global icons like Nescafé and Nespresso, to beloved local brands such as Loumidis Papagalos Greek Coffee and Korpi Natural Mineral Water.
More information: www.nestle.gr