Italian entrepreneur Andrea Pignataro is spearheading a plan to create a major technology hub on the Athenian Riviera in Anavyssos, southeast of Athens, with a total investment of €2bn. The ambitious project aims to centralize the research and development efforts of ION Group, a financial data and software company, which are currently scattered across the US, UK, and India. The new campus is expected to employ up to 3,000 workers, significantly boosting local employment and innovation.
Pignataro is working on the project in collaboration with internationally acclaimed architect Renzo Piano. According to Bloomberg, Piano presented his initial designs during a meeting with high-ranking Greek officials last August, signaling strong governmental interest. Although the project is still in its early stages, and several hurdles remain such as environmental concerns and bureaucratic delays it is seen as a pivotal step in reinforcing Greece’s role as a technology and innovation hub.
The Greek government is expected to soon open a tender for the development of the area, inviting other investors to participate. While details of the fund and the project timeline are yet to be finalized, industry sources highlight that tax incentives, investment support, and ample expansion space make Greece an attractive destination for such high-tech investments.
Pignataro, a key figure in European fintech with an empire valued at around €25bn built through ION Group, has previously raised billions through bonds and debt, expanding the company via strategic acquisitions such as Fidessa and Acuris. Despite past challenges with regulatory scrutiny in Italy most notably during the acquisition of asset management firm Prelios Pignataro’s latest venture underscores his commitment to driving innovation and consolidation in the rapidly evolving tech sector.
