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National Bank Launches 16th Innovation And Technology Contest To Propel Future-Ready Solutions

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

July 17, 2025

The National Bank has announced the commencement of its 16th Innovation & Technology Contest under the NBG Business Seeds program. Recognized as the longest-running initiative supporting innovation in Greece and Cyprus, the contest has, over its 16-year tenure, been instrumental in empowering visionary individuals with the tools and guidance needed to transform pioneering ideas into practical solutions.

Fostering Entrepreneurial and Technological Synergy

With more than 8,700 submissions to date, the contest represents a fertile ground where entrepreneurial creativity meets technological advancement. The initiative actively encourages projects in research, entrepreneurial ventures, and technology-driven solutions tailored to address contemporary societal challenges and the economic demands of the future. Notably, persistent participation from Cypriot research teams and startups has become a hallmark of the contest, with past winners—such as this year’s victor of the 15th edition, Ask Wire—demonstrating its impact on regional innovation.

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Driving Tomorrow’s Technologies With Social Responsibility

Participants are invited to address key sectors including financial technology (fintech), digital entrepreneurship, advanced technologies, artificial intelligence, sustainability, and social progress. The contest places special emphasis on solutions that promote ethical governance, financial literacy, and the economic empowerment of citizens, thereby aligning technological innovation with broader social responsibilities.

Mentorship And Networking Opportunities

Throughout the competition, entrants benefit from a structured program of briefings and one-on-one mentoring sessions. This support network is bolstered by seasoned executives from the National Bank and more than 50 collaborative partners, including industry leaders such as Microsoft, AWS, Google, Amcham, the Onassis Foundation, and Mastercard, among others. Not only is the program hosted in Greece, but relevant events will also take place in Cyprus, ensuring a comprehensive support and networking experience.

Attractive Monetary Awards And Strategic Opportunities

The contest will reward the top three proposals with cash prizes of €20,000, €12,000, and €8,000 respectively, as evaluated by a panel composed of academics and senior bank executives. In addition, a new Specialist Property Tech Award of €4,000 is being introduced, alongside up to five Special Awards for Financial Empowerment totaling €10,000. These awards are designed not only to recognize innovative brilliance but also to enhance the capacity of citizens to make informed economic decisions. Beyond the immediate financial incentives, winners will gain access to valuable support networks, visibility opportunities, and potential strategic partnerships with the National Bank, including the possibility of direct investments.

Submission Deadline And Further Information

Proposals must be submitted by Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at 15:00. For entrepreneurs and innovators seeking to join the 16th Innovation & Technology Contest, further details and application procedures can be found via the official contest portal. Additional information about the NBG Business Seeds program and contest particulars is available on the National Bank’s website.

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Bitcoin Surges 23% In A Week As Investor Optimism Returns

by News Editor

August 21, 2026

Bitcoin was on track for a weekly gain of around 23% on Friday as a series of positive macroeconomic and policy developments boosted investor sentiment.

The cryptocurrency was trading about 6% higher at roughly $77,000, up from around $62,800 at the start of the week. Crypto-related stocks also rallied, with Coinbase and Circle gaining more than 9%, while Strategy rose 7%.

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Macro Factors Fuel Rally

Bitcoin’s latest surge began Wednesday after Treasury yields fell sharply following a major intervention by the U.S. Treasury in the bond market. Lower yields eased pressure on risk assets and helped trigger a broader move into cryptocurrencies.

The rally was further amplified by a major short squeeze. Around $2.7 billion in crypto short positions were liquidated, according to CoinGlass.

Max Stuedlein, head of Partnerships at Sygnum APAC, said the move reflected an alignment of macroeconomic and policy catalysts, including the Treasury’s decision to increase buybacks of longer-dated government debt.

Clarity Act Boosts Sentiment

Investor confidence improved further on Thursday as the White House and crypto industry leaders made a final push to advance the Clarity Act in the coming weeks.

The legislation is widely viewed as a potential catalyst for the crypto market, although its chances of passing remain relatively limited.

Despite the rally, bitcoin remains well below its 2026 high of $94,820 reached in January and its all-time high of $126,198, set last October.

Analysts See More Volatility Ahead

Lucy Gazmararian, founder and managing partner at Token Bay Capital, said the crypto market may be approaching the end of its bear cycle.

She expects bitcoin could experience one more decline of around 20% before the market turns, pointing to historical cycles and the recent liquidation of heavily leveraged short positions.

Gazmararian also described bitcoin as a long-term hedge against monetary debasement, while warning that its short-term price remains highly volatile and driven by market cycles.