The Digital Gate open innovation program, co-organized by Athens International Airport and the ACE at the Athens University of Economics and Business, has successfully completed the proposal evaluation process and is now moving into its third and final phase. The selected teams will proceed to develop and implement pilot applications under real-world airport conditions, testing their solutions in a complex and demanding operational environment.
10 YEARS OF THE DIGITAL GATE
This year, The Digital Gate celebrates ten years as one of the most recognized open innovation platforms in the field of aviation and infrastructure in Greece. Now in its fifth edition, it continues to highlight and accelerate innovative technological solutions that can address real operational challenges and enhance the passenger experience.
The long-standing collaboration between Athens International Airport and the ACE at the Athens University of Economics and Business is a key pillar of the program’s success, contributing over time to the integration of research, entrepreneurship, and the market.
THE PROGRAM
The program showcases innovative solutions that transform the airports of the future, inviting participants to leverage artificial intelligence and data to create safer, more efficient, and fully digital passenger experiences.
“The Digital Gate V” IN NUMBERS
- 66 total applications from startups and research teams
- 18 teams from abroad
- 15+ research teams from universities and research laboratories
- 25+ ecosystem organizations actively supporting the program
The proposals covered topics such as:
- Airport security and operational monitoring
- AI for operational efficiency
- Digital solutions for the passenger experience
- Secure data management and utilization
- ESG and sustainability
THE SELECTED TEAMS
During the final phase, the seven teams selected for their high level of innovation and significant potential for application in the airport environment will work closely with executives and experts from Athens International Airport, as well as with ACE’s network of mentors and partners, in order to adapt their solutions to real operational needs and conduct pilot tests in an airport environment.
- Angely is developing a passive detection system for concealed weapons that enables discreet and seamless passenger security screening at airports.
- AviSense.ai offers a platform that combines data from multiple sources and leverages artificial intelligence to enhance airport security and operational efficiency.
- CDXi Solutions is developing AIrfield, an artificial intelligence platform that consolidates and analyzes airport operational data in real time.
- Dataphoria provides a Software as a Service (SaaS) platform that helps companies measure, manage, and strategically leverage their sustainability data.
- Honestli develops digital certification technology that ensures the authenticity and integrity of photos and videos from the moment they are captured.
- SigniVoice offers innovative accessibility solutions, leveraging Artificial Intelligence to bridge communication between deaf or hard-of-hearing individuals and hearing people.
- Transitool develops digital tools that enhance the transit passenger experience by providing information and guidance during transfers.
THE ECOSYSTEM THAT SUPPORTS INNOVATION
For the first time, the contribution of the Ecosystem Partners network is pivotal, as it strategically supports the program and the dissemination of innovation. The network includes universities, research laboratories, innovation hubs, and venture capital funds, among which are the ahedd Digital Innovation Hub, AD≺ LAB, Intelligent Systems Lab, the National Technical University of Athens, the Innovation & Entrepreneurship Unit of the University of Ioannina, Uni.Fund, and Evercurious.
Ten years after its launch, The Digital Gate continues to serve as a meeting point for innovation, academic knowledge, and the market, creating opportunities for the development of technologies with a real impact on the aviation sector and helping to shape the future of airport services.
As stated by Mr. Alexandros Ziomas, Director of the Information Systems & Telecommunications Business Unit at Athens International Airport:
“At Athens International Airport, Digital Gate brings innovation closer to practice, transforming ideas into solutions that are tested under real airport conditions. By leveraging new technologies, we are enhancing the airport’s day-to-day operations and upgrading the passenger experience, creating tangible and measurable benefits.”