The C Nest Accelerator Incubator is a modern business support hub designed to foster growth, innovation, and competitiveness for businesses based in the Region of Crete. By offering a dynamic environment, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and strong collaboration opportunities, C Nest enhances the business potential and market readiness of its participants.

The incubator supports businesses and teams operating in key regional priority sectors, including green energy, circular economy, agri-food, creative and blue economy and information technology. Its services are tailored to startups, established enterprises, and innovation support organizations seeking to scale their activities and strengthen their competitive position.

Services Offered

Participating businesses benefit from a comprehensive support package that includes:

• Innovation skills development through targeted workshops
• Business consulting services to design realistic and actionable growth plans
• Accelerator support aimed at increasing investment readiness and attractiveness
• Innovation coaching for the development and implementation of innovation projects
• Networking opportunities and connections with research centers, investors, and strategic partners

Key Benefits

Through participation in the C Nest Accelerator, businesses gain:

• Tailored guidance and mentorship
• Specialized training and skills enhancement
• Access to dynamic networking opportunities and potential investors
• Exposure to funding tools and financial support mechanisms
• Increased visibility and recognition within the regional and national innovation ecosystem

Programme Implementation

The C Nest Accelerator will operate over a 36-month period, during which six (6) calls for expressions of interest will be launched, selecting 30 businesses per cycle.

The evaluation process for the 1st operational cycle of the Crete Business Incubator – C Nest Accelerator has been successfully completed. The first cycle commenced in October 2025 and will conclude in February 2026.

A total of 25 applications were submitted, originating from:

• Heraklion: 18 applications
• Rethymno: 4 applications
• Chania: 2 applications
• Lasithi: 1 application

In terms of thematic focus (based on RIS sectors), applications were distributed as follows:

• Digital Technologies: 12
• Sustainable Resource Use: 5
• Smart Tourism & Culture: 3
• Sustainable Agri-food: 3
• Efficient Health & Wellbeing: 2

Programme Framework

The action is implemented by PRAXI Network of FORTH in collaboration with Green Projects A.E., within the framework of the Just Transition Development Programme 2021–2027, with the General Secretariat for Research and Innovation acting as the beneficiary.

For more information: https://cnest.gr/