Μake us preferred on Google Attica is developing a new strategy to help businesses in the region expand into international markets, with a focus on improving competitiveness, strengthening export capabilities and creating a more coordinated support system.
The initiative is based on the third thematic study by the Attica Region’s Observatory for Competitiveness and Entrepreneurship, titled “Strengthening the International Orientation and Competitiveness of Businesses.” The study examines the degree of internationalization among businesses in Attica, the forms of international activity they pursue, the benefits they gain and the barriers limiting further expansion abroad.
The research was conducted by the Observatory in cooperation with Grant Thornton and included 244 businesses from the Attica metropolitan area.
Most businesses with international activity rely on exports
The study found that Attica already has a significant base of outward-looking businesses, with 66% of those surveyed reporting some form of international activity.
However, internationalization remains primarily commercial and export-oriented. Businesses mainly engage in direct exports of products and services, imports of raw materials and partnerships with representatives, while forms of international presence requiring greater investment remain limited.
The main motivation for expanding abroad is the search for growth opportunities. Businesses are seeking new markets and larger customer bases as key drivers of their international activity.
The study also found that international operations generate significant business value by increasing revenue, expanding customer bases and strengthening companies’ resilience to fluctuations in the domestic economy.
At the same time, international expansion is not always supported by a clear long-term strategy. Only a small number of businesses have comprehensive international growth plans, while overseas activity is often developed piecemeal, without clearly defined objectives.
High costs and bureaucracy remain key barriers
Businesses identified several obstacles to international expansion, including high operating costs, bureaucracy, difficulties accessing financing and limited organizational capacity.
These challenges are particularly significant for small and very small businesses.
The study also found that companies need more than financial support. They are seeking reliable information about target markets, advisory services, export skills and assistance in choosing the most appropriate way to enter individual markets.
Public support is also viewed as difficult to access or insufficiently effective. The study calls for simpler and better-organized support programs and services tailored to the needs of individual businesses and sectors.
Attica plans a coordinated support system
The proposed strategy aims to create a coordinated regional ecosystem for international expansion that supports businesses throughout the different stages of developing an international presence.
The goal is to move businesses from individual export activities toward a more organized and stable presence in international markets.
The Attica Region says it does not intend to replace national economic and export policy agencies. Instead, it plans to operate as a complementary and coordinating body, addressing specific gaps and tailoring interventions to the needs of businesses in the region.
The proposed approach would provide businesses with a clearer path toward international expansion, from assessing their readiness and identifying target markets to establishing the necessary partnerships.
Greater cooperation among chambers of commerce, professional associations, economic diplomacy bodies, universities and organizations supporting international business could also strengthen synergies and reduce fragmentation among available services.
Findings presented at business webinar
The study’s findings were presented during the third thematic webinar organized by the Observatory for Competitiveness and Entrepreneurship, titled “Internationalization of Attica Businesses: From Exports to an International Presence.”
Business representatives, institutional organizations and market experts took part in the online event, discussing the challenges and support needs associated with international expansion.
The discussion focused on improving access to information about international markets, financing tools, export skills and cooperation between businesses and support organizations.
The Observatory said this exchange of views is an important part of its work, allowing the Attica Region to connect the findings of its studies with the practical needs of businesses.
The “Athens Forward” initiative is now moving to its next thematic study, titled “Crisis Management, Operational Risks and Adaptation to Change.” It will examine how prepared Attica businesses are for natural disasters, economic disruptions, technological changes and other risks, as well as the strategies they use to manage crises and adapt to a constantly changing environment.
€95.5 million in funding for small businesses
The regional strategy is accompanied by financial support through “Attiki On,” an initiative under Greece’s National Strategic Reference Framework (NSRF) aimed at supporting small and very small businesses in Attica.
A total of 1,044 investment plans have been approved, receiving €95.5 million in European funding.
The program supports investments in digital and technological transformation, energy upgrades, productivity, competitiveness and the preservation or creation of jobs.
Hardalias calls for a more organized international presence
Attica Regional Governor Nikos Hardalias said businesses in the region have the quality, expertise and capabilities needed to compete successfully in international markets.
“The research by the Observatory confirms that a significant share of them has already developed activity outside Greece and is seeking new growth opportunities,” Hardalias said.
At the same time, he said the study shows that international activity remains largely commercial and export-oriented and, in many cases, is not yet based on comprehensive, long-term planning.
“Internationalization must become an organized growth strategy, with clear goals, appropriate preparation, knowledge of international markets and stable partnerships,” Hardalias said.
He emphasized that businesses, particularly small and very small companies, need more than financing, including access to reliable information, guidance on selecting appropriate markets, skills development and stronger connections with economic diplomacy bodies, chambers of commerce, the academic community and specialized organizations.
“The Attica Region can operate in a complementary, strategic and coordinating role,” he said. “We are not here to replace national agencies or create a parallel system. We are here to fill gaps, better organize businesses’ path toward international markets and bring together everyone who can contribute to their success.”
Hardalias also highlighted the financial support already being provided through “Attiki On,” saying the €95.5 million allocated to 1,044 investment plans would strengthen technological modernization, productivity, competitiveness and employment.
“Our goal is to create an environment in which more businesses can take the next step from the domestic market to exports, and from exports to a stable and competitive international presence,” he said. “With planning, knowledge and cooperation, we are strengthening Attica’s productive forces and creating more growth opportunities for the economy and its citizens.”
