We are thrilled and proud to announce that Katerina Saridaki, Director of the Capsule^T Accelerator, has been named winner in the category “Ecosystem Hero of the Year” at the South Europe Startup Awards 2025 — a prestigious European distinction recognizing individuals with outstanding contributions to the growth of innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystems. 

This recognition reflects the continuous efforts of the Capsule^T Accelerator to empower tourism startups, connect them with the market, and foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and extroversion. 

An award that belongs to the entire Capsule^T community 

The South Europe Startup Awards (SESA) are part of the international institution Global Startup Awards (GSA) — the world’s largest platform showcasing initiatives that strengthen innovation and entrepreneurial ecosystems. 

According to the official definition of the awards, the “Ecosystem Hero” title honors individuals with exceptional dedication to entrepreneurship who actively nurture startup growth and collaboration, shaping the entrepreneurial landscape through vision and innovation. 

This year’s competition included 153 finalists from 9 Southern European countries, with only 5 Greek nominees. This victory is not merely personal — it belongs to the entire Capsule^T community: startups, mentors, partners, supporters, and tourism professionals who have contributed to the program’s evolution since its launch in 2019. 

Statement by Katerina Saridaki 

“It is truly an honor to receive this award as a recognition of my contribution to the startup community. 
My own journey within the Greek innovation ecosystem began back in 2013 and continued through Capsule^T — supporting young entrepreneurs and early-stage teams in their first steps has always been, and continues to be, a true privilege. 

I feel proud of how far we’ve come, of the challenges we’ve overcome, and of the incredible community that has stood beside us throughout these years. A healthy ecosystem cannot exist without collaboration and people who nurture it with dedication and consistency. 

A special thank you to Alexandros Vassilikos and the Board of Directors of the Hellenic Chamber of Hotels for their trust and continuous support of our work at the accelerator. 

And, of course, heartfelt thanks to all of you who are part of this journey — and to everyone who supported this distinction with your vote!” 

This award further strengthens Capsule^T’s position as a catalyst for the new era of Greek tourism. 

About the South Europe Startup Awards 

The South Europe Startup Awards (SESA) are the regional branch of the Global Startup Awards (GSA), covering 9 Southern European countries. Their goal is to highlight individuals and organizations that actively contribute to shaping sustainable and innovative entrepreneurial ecosystems. 

This recognition fills us with joy, pride, and a renewed sense of responsibility — to continue supporting the startups that are building the future of tourism with even greater dedication.