One in Two Greek Small Businesses Uses Artificial Intelligence

by · Greek City Times

One in two small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Greece now uses artificial intelligence (AI) applications, marking a shift from experimentation to practical business adoption. However, only a small proportion have integrated the technology into their core operations or achieved measurable results, according to a new nationwide survey.

The second annual survey by ENTERSOFTONE and the ELTRUN research laboratory at the Athens University of Economics and Business (AUEB) identifies a significant rise in AI readiness among Greek businesses, while highlighting a substantial gap between demand for the technology and its actual adoption.

Dr Timoleon Farmakis of ELTRUN and Stavros Menegos, Chief Technical Officer of ENTERSOFTONE, discussed the findings with the Athens-Macedonian News Agency (AMNA).

Farmakis said that although half of Greek SMEs use AI tools, meaningful integration remains limited. Only one in 10 businesses has incorporated AI into its operations rather than using it simply to generate text or images. Just three per cent have achieved substantial, measurable results.

Lack of expertise remains a major obstacle

Read more: Greek PM: Greece Is at Forefront of Artificial Intelligence Strategy

Training plays a crucial role in helping businesses make effective use of AI, Farmakis said.

Only one in 10 Greek SMEs has undertaken some form of AI training, although many more intend to invest in training over the coming period to improve their understanding and use of the technology.

According to Farmakis, the lack of specialised AI knowledge currently represents one of the most significant barriers to wider adoption.

Businesses want to understand the practical applications of AI, the limits of the technology and how to use it correctly, he explained.

AI promises greater productivity and fewer errors

Asked about the value that intelligent software applications can deliver to businesses, Menegos identified three main benefits.

The first is time savings, allowing employees to accomplish significantly more within the same working hours.

The second is a substantial reduction in errors, while the third involves improvements in the quality of products and services.

Menegos said better feedback and higher quality would ultimately benefit businesses, as both represent important factors in improving performance and supporting business development.

Survey examines 350 Greek businesses

ELTRUN conducted the survey on behalf of ENTERSOFTONE, covering 350 Greek SMEs employing between 10 and 50 people.

The research included businesses from across Greece and covered all major sectors of the national economy.

Professor George Doukidis of the Athens University of Economics and Business, together with Dr Timoleon Farmakis and Dr Katerina Fraidaki of ELTRUN, provided the scientific supervision.

(Source: AMNA)

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