Uniting for a Thriving Future: Ilia Chamber’s Commitment to Regional Growth
In today’s interconnected world, regional development thrives when communities work together toward common goals. The EU Strategy for the Adriatic and Ionian Region (EUSAIR) embodies this spirit by promoting connectivity, social inclusion, and sustainable economic growth across borders. Motivated by these common goals, the Ilia Chamber of Commerce is stepping forward as a determined advocate for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), actively shaping a
coordinated and resilient economic future for Ilia and its surrounding areas.
In this framework, a high-level policy meeting took place on July 23, 2025, at the headquarters of Ilia Chamber of Commerce in Pyrgos. The meeting convened
the Chamber’s leadership alongside a delegation from the Hellenic Confederation of Professionals, Craftsmen & Merchants (GSEVEE), led by President Mr. Giorgos Kavvathas, underscoring the significance of collaboration and unified efforts for the advancement of local businesses.
The President of Ilia Chamber, Mr. Konstantinos Leventis expressed appreciation for this partnership, emphasizing that, amidst ongoing challenges, Ilia’s SMEs benefit greatly from strong allies and a clear, united voice. A top priority emerging from these discussions is finding a fair and sustainable solution to the ongoing issue of fire-stricken loans* —financial obligations that have become a significant burden on the local economy.
Ilia Chamber’s commitment goes further than just addressing immediate financial issues. The comprehensive agenda encompasses the promotion of essential infrastructure projects, such as the completion of the Olympia Road and the regional railway. It also advocates for the establishment of an independent university faculty in Ilia, aiming to closely align with EUSAIR’s pillars of territorial cohesion and social inclusiveness, thereby providing long-term benefits for the region’s development.
Additionally, the Chamber is advancing member support through practical measures such as the Business Support Centre, digitization of services, and the promotion of the “Products of Olympic Land” regional brand. By mapping local needs, proposing actionable solutions, and engaging actively with policymakers, the Chamber works to secure targeted backing for its community.
GSEVEE’s President Mr Giorgos Kavvathas echoed the importance of deepening cooperation, noting that strengthening SMEs is not only an economic
necessity but also vital for social cohesion and balanced regional growth. He pointed out ongoing structural challenges, including the limited access to
financing faced by most small businesses—less than 6% according to recent figures—and called for greater flexibility from financial institutions, especially
where public funding is involved. Mr. Kavvathas also highlighted difficulties with digital transformation, noting the pressing need for enhanced training and
support—a challenge recognized in EUSAIR discussions on innovation and skills development across the Adriatic-Ionian macro-region.
The meeting further emphasized the need to reorganize local professional federations to improve representation of entrepreneurs beyond the formal role of
the Chamber, fostering a more inclusive and effective advocacy environment.
Concluding on a positive and cooperative note, participants—including Ilia Chamber board members and representatives of local trade unions—agreed on the importance of building lasting partnerships and reinforcing common actions. The Chamber’s ongoing initiatives, from informational support to brand promotion, directly support EUSAIR’s vision for smart, sustainable, and inclusive growth throughout the region.
* Fire-stricken loans, guaranteed by the Greek government, were granted to Ilia’s SMEs after wildfires to help them recover. Over time, many businesses have struggled to repay these loans due to persistent economic difficulties and repeated disasters. This has turned the loans from short-term relief into a long-term financial burden. The state guarantee hasn’t eased the pressure, as unpaid debts still threaten business survival. The mounting obligations have constrained cash flow, investment, and growth for local enterprises. As a result, fire-stricken loans are now seen as a major obstacle to Ilia’s SME recovery and regional development.
