Greece, best known for its ancient history and beautiful landscapes, has been quietly transforming into a modern, resilient tech economy. While much of the world remains oblivious to this shift, the country has taken significant steps to nurture its tech sector and establish itself as an attractive destination for investment and innovation. During a series of conversations in Athens, including a sit-down with Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, it became evident that Greece's tech transformation is more than just a marketing ploy. The government made a conscious decision about six years ago to diversify beyond traditional industries like tourism and hospitality, aiming to leverage technology to leapfrog and surpass many European nations. Mitsotakis, who has a background in venture capital and founded Greece's first incubator in 2001, is a driving force behind this initiative. He envisions tech contributing 10% to the country's economy, a feasible goal given the rising number of startups, increased capital flows, and a growing ecosystem of founders and VCs. The Prime Minister highlighted Greece's rapid progress in digitizing public services, noting that it has outpaced even Germany in certain areas. A notable example is a Microsoft-backed AI system that has significantly reduced government contract review times. To foster this tech ecosystem, Greece is implementing policies to reverse the brain drain that sent thousands of skilled workers abroad during the financial crisis. Tax incentives, such as a 50% discount on income tax for seven years, aim to attract talent back. Additionally, the "Golden Visa" program now offers residency to third-country nationals who invest a minimum of €250,000 in a Greek startup. Two new programs introduced last year focus on bringing in skilled foreign workers and entrepreneurs. Mitsotakis stressed the importance of regional development, with tech hubs emerging in cities like Thessaloniki and Heraklion, supported by local universities. This strategy aims to ensure that tech growth is not confined to Athens alone. The Prime Minister also acknowledged the need for legal reforms and more late-stage capital, but he emphasized that Greece now offers predictability, stability, and positive momentum. Despite the challenges, Mitsotakis believes the country has broken out of its vicious cycle of decline. Tech, he argues, presents a great opportunity for both the private sector and the government. The Prime Minister's goal is to make Greece's technological progress irreversible, ensuring that the country continues to move forward. Industry insiders and company profiles support this narrative. Many investors and founders who attended the sit-down in Athens are optimistic about Greece's potential. Some have even returned from tech hubs like Silicon Valley and London, drawn by the promising opportunities and supportive environment. This movement of talent indicates that Greece's strategic efforts are gaining traction and could contribute to sustained growth in the tech sector. In summary, Greece's tech renaissance is a deliberate and multifaceted effort that combines policy innovation, investor attraction, and a focus on regional development. While the country faces ongoing challenges, its leaders and tech community are committed to making significant strides in building a robust and competitive tech ecosystem.