A New Chapter Begins: VentureGarden Launches in Patras
February 05, 2026
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VentureGarden expands its footprint with the launch of its first round in Patras, bringing its philosophy of “Helping People Grow Ideas” to one of Greece’s most dynamic and traditional entrepreneurial ecosystems.
AHEAD, the Alba Hub for Entrepreneurship and Development, marks a significant milestone with this expansion, reinforcing its commitment to supporting entrepreneurship beyond major urban centers. Following the expansion of the program from Athens to Heraklion in 2019, it was time to explore yet another stronghold of entrepreneurship in Greece. With a strong academic foundation, an entrepreneurial tradition that spans over centuries, and a rich talent pool, Patras offers fertile ground for the development of innovative and impactful ventures.
Inside the First VentureGarden Patras Round
The first VentureGarden round in Patras has already completed its educational phase, offering participants a structured and experiential learning journey. The round included eight educational sessions and brought together 16 participants working on 15 business ideas, spanning early-stage ventures, cultural initiatives, innovative services, and the expansion of existing businesses.
Through workshops, group activities, and structured feedback, participants tested assumptions, explored feasibility, and refined their concepts.
Throughout the program, participants sharpened their value propositions, clarified target audiences, and identified new directions for growth. From the outset, engagement highlighted the importance of a trusted space where ideas and challenges could be openly shared, with a strong sense of collaboration quickly emerging as a defining element of the experience.
Following the completion of the educational phase, the program now moves into the mentoring stage. Participants will continue working with experienced mentors to set clear goals and develop structured roadmaps for the next steps in the evolution of their ideas. By joining the first round in Patras, participants become part of a forward-looking network that values creativity, collaboration, and meaningful impact.
The VentureGarden Patras program is delivered by ALBA Graduate Business School, in collaboration with SOCIACT – Social Innovation Hub. The program is offered free of charge with the support of its national donor Alpha Bank, as part of its commitment to supporting the growth and resilience of small businesses. The program launched in Patras under the auspices of the local Chamber of Commerce, the Western Greece Chapter of the Technical Chamber of Greece and the Federation of Industries of Peloponnese & Western Greece.
Since 2014, AHEAD has supported over 634 aspiring entrepreneurs in 31 VentureGarden rounds delivered in Athens, Heraklion, and Patras. The first round in Patras marks the beginning of a shared journey, one that strengthens the city’s entrepreneurial spirit and lays the foundations for future growth. Together, participants are planting the seeds for ventures with the potential to create meaning and lasting value.
