Aimed at supporting and empowering small and medium-sized businesses, COSMOTE TELEKOM launched a new series of free workshops in Athens and Thessaloniki, within the framework of the COSMOTE GROW YOUR BUSINESS – Go Abroad program. The aim of the initiative is to offer SMEs and freelancers the necessary supplies, knowledge and tools to confidently take their first steps in foreign markets.
As Mr. Thanos Falangas, Director of B2B Marketing, CRM & Channel Management of OTE Group pointed out, “with the new cycle of COSMOTE GROW YOUR BUSINESS and the “Go Abroad” action, we give SMEs the knowledge and resources to move with confidence in international markets, utilizing the possibilities of technology. We stand firmly by their side, offering training, guidance and innovative solutions that enhance their competitiveness.”
The two days of the program took place on November 7, 2025 at the Athens Concert Hall and on November 12, 2025 at the Porto Palace Hotel in Thessaloniki. There, hundreds of entrepreneurs had the opportunity to learn about the challenges and opportunities that accompany entering foreign markets, but also to gain practical knowledge for planning a successful export strategy.
During the days, the participants focused on first steps of export activitygaining an in-depth understanding of the benefits, challenges and fundamentals of market research. At the same time, they had the opportunity to learn how to design an effective international marketing planto understand the strategies for attracting international customers and choose them appropriate sales channels – be it online stores or international marketplaces.
Special emphasis was given to role of technology as a growth catalyst. Participants discovered how solutions such as the cloud, artificial intelligence, big data and cyber security can make a significant contribution to extroversion and increasing competitiveness. In addition, they were informed about the principles of transparency and security, but also about practical ways to strengthen trust in e-commerce.
Through the presentation of modern digital tools and innovative artificial intelligence applications, participants gained valuable knowledge on how they can effectively support their export efforts. They also had the opportunity to be motivated by real stories and case studies of successful Greek companies that managed to expand abroad, while they were inspired by established entrepreneurs with many years of experience in the export sector.
The conference atmosphere combined knowledge with inspiration, creating an environment of collaboration and exchange of experiences between entrepreneurs, industry experts and market executives.
Technology as a driver of development and international presence
In his speech, Mr. Falangas underlined the decisive role played by technology in the modern business environment. “Technology is the lever that gives any business – no matter how small – the power to move into larger markets. To better understand foreign markets, to adapt to their requirements and ultimately stand out”, he noted.
Referring to the technological trends that have radically changed the way businesses operate, he particularly focused on Artificial intelligencewhich “is everywhere and affects almost every business process,” he said.
The Big Datawhich are the new “energy source” of the economy, allow businesses to make more targeted decisions, while the Cloud boosts efficiency and productivity. The Internet of Things (IoT)on the other hand, improves production, distribution and logistics, making businesses run more efficiently.
He also emphasized the importance of a strong digital presence and social mediawhich – as he said – are now an integral part of any extroversion strategy.
Finally, he mentioned the need for enhanced securitygiven that the hyper-connected world in which we operate creates new threats that need to be addressed with responsibility and expertise.
“Invest smart, not necessarily big”
Concluding his speech, Mr. Falangas shared three key messages for businesses wishing to take the step towards international markets.
First, technology is not a luxury but a necessary tool, as without it the speed, accuracy and consistency required by the international market cannot be achieved.
secondly, businesses need to invest targetedly, choosing tools that fit their size and needs. Choosing the right solutions should be based on international operability, security and compliance with standards such as GDPR, ease of integration with existing infrastructure and of course return on investment.
Thirdly, technology should not be implemented piecemeal, but should be an integral part of the strategic plan of each business.
A firm commitment to Greek SMEs
COSMOTE TELEKOM proves in practice its commitment to stand by the side of small and medium enterprises, offering not only technological solutions but also substantial support.
From 2017 until today, through COSMOTE GROW YOUR BUSINESS actions, more than 115,000 businesses and freelancers have been trained, who improved their digital skills and acquired the resources to successfully proceed with their digital transformation.
With Go Abroad, COSMOTE TELEKOM continues this journey, opening new horizons of extroversion and offering Greek businesses the “ticket” to claim the position they deserve in the international markets.