The open innovation program The Digital Gate, co-organized by the Athens International Airport, and the ACE of the Athens University of Economics and Business, has successfully completed the proposal evaluation process and now moves to its third and final phase. The selected teams will proceed to develop and implement pilot applications (pilots) in real airport conditions, testing their solutions in a complex and demanding operational environment.
10 YEARS OF THE DIGITAL GATE
The Digital Gate celebrates ten years of presence this year as one of the most recognized open innovation institutions in the field of air transport and infrastructure in Greece. In its fifth edition, it continues to highlight and accelerate innovative technological solutions that can address real operational challenges and improve the passenger experience.
The long-term collaboration of Athens International Airport with the ACE of the Athens University of Economics and Business is a key pillar of the program's success, consistently contributing to the connection of research, entrepreneurship, and the market.
THE PROGRAM
The program highlights innovative solutions that transform the airports of the future, inviting participants to leverage Artificial Intelligence and data for safer, more efficient, and fully digital passenger experiences.
THE "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 passenger experience
- Secure data management and utilization
- ESG and sustainability
THE TEAMS THAT QUALIFIED
During the final phase, the seven teams selected for their high degree 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 the network of mentors and partners of ACE, in order to adapt their solutions to real operational needs and implement pilot tests in an airport environment.
- Angely is developing a passive concealed weapon detection system 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 unifies and analyzes airport operational data in real time.
- Dataphoria provides a Software as a Service (SaaS) platform that helps businesses measure, manage, and strategically leverage their sustainability data.
- Honestli is developing 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 is developing digital tools that improve the experience of transit passengers, providing information and guidance during transfers.
THE ECOSYSTEM SUPPORTING INNOVATION
For the first time, the contribution of the Ecosystem Partners network is decisive, strategically supporting the program and the diffusion of innovation. The network includes universities, research laboratories, innovation hubs, and venture capital funds, among which are ahedd Digital Innovation Hub, AD&PR LAB, Intelligent Systems Lab, National Technical University of Athens, 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 real impact in the air transport sector and contributing to shaping the future of airport services.
As stated by the Director of the IT & Telecommunications Business Unit of Athens International Airport, Mr. Alexandros Ziomas:
“At Athens International Airport, Digital Gate brings innovation closer to practice, turning ideas into solutions tested in real airport conditions. By leveraging new technologies, we enhance the daily operation of the airport and upgrade the passenger experience, creating substantial and measurable benefits”.