Artificial intelligence can be recognized as a catalyst for productivity and operational efficiency, but its adoption by Greek businesses remains limited. According to the annual Entrepreneurship Research in EU Greece, one in three entrepreneurs (27%) have not made any investment in TN in the last three years, despite the fact that 76% believe they will boost their business functions.

The survey, conducted in February – March 2025 with the participation of 135 businessmen from different sectors, is part of the Pan -European study of EY in the Central, Eastern and Southeast Europe and Central Asian region (CESA). The results reveal the ambiguity that characterizes the Greek business landscape: intentions for investment and recruitment, but also concerns about the cost, skills and future of business.

High expectations of artificial intelligence but limited use in practice

Despite the limited use of TN, entrepreneurs are willing to invest. 65% plan investments in new or upgraded IT systems, while 62% in equipment and machinery. The sectors, which are expected to accept most investment, are product innovation (59%) and organizational innovation (54%).

However, factors such as operating and labor costs (83% and 81% respectively), economic uncertainty and geopolitical instability are still serious obstacles. It is indicative that only 5% of respondents have invested more than € 250,000 in TN, while the majority fund investments by reinvesting profits, avoiding bank lending.

The intention is there, the skills not

Employment findings are particularly positive: 67% of Greek businessmen say they plan full -time recruitment within the next 12 months – a percentage clearly higher than the CESA average (48%). However, 78% find it difficult to find candidates with the necessary skills and 61% with the required experience, once again highlighting the skill gap, which limits growth prospects.

Artificial intelligence, though it is considered very promising, encounters a wall in practice. Entrepreneurs recognize the advantages: Improvement (49%), a reduction in automation costs (48%), quality improvement (46%). But without strategy, know -how and human resources, the exploitation of TN remains theoretical.

Family business

Another crucial issue, highlighted by research, is to manage succession to family businesses. 62% of participants represent a family business, but only 32% have a formal succession plan and only 6% have requested the contribution of an external consultant. Many choose informal procedures or have not dealt with the subject at all, despite the fact that succession is recognized as a basic challenge.

The majority of entrepreneurs (58%) do not consider the sale of part of the business next year. Those who are considering departure are either in sale to investors or other funds (48%) or a family heritage transfer (38%), which confirms the importance of family values ​​and continuity in Greek business culture.