The Digital Gate V: Teams Selected to Implement Pilot Applications at ATH

The Digital Gate open innovation program, co-organized by the Athens International Airport and the ACE of the Athens University of Economics and Business, has successfully completed the evaluation process of the submitted proposals and is now moving into its third and final phase. The selected teams will proceed with the development and implementation of pilot applications in real airport conditions, testing their solutions in a complex and demanding operational environment.

10 YEARS OF THE DIGITAL GATE
The Digital Gate marks ten years of presence this year as one of the most recognized open innovation initiatives in the fields of aviation and infrastructure in Greece. In its fifth edition, it continues to identify and accelerate innovative technological solutions that address real operational challenges and enhance the passenger experience.

ENGINEERING & TECHNOLOGY
The long-standing collaboration between Athens International Airport and the ACE of the Athens University of Economics and Business is a key pillar of the program’s success, consistently contributing to the connection between research, entrepreneurship, and the market.

THE PROGRAM
The program highlights innovative solutions that are transforming the airports of the future, inviting participants to leverage Artificial Intelligence and data to create safer, more efficient, and fully digital passenger experiences.

“THE DIGITAL GATE V” IN NUMBERS

• 66 total applications from startups and research teams 
• 18 international teams 
• 15+ research teams from universities and research labs 
• 25+ ecosystem organizations actively supporting the program 

The proposals covered areas such as:

• Airport security and operational monitoring 
• AI for operational efficiency 
• Digital solutions for passenger experience 
• Secure data management and utilization 
• ESG and sustainability 

SELECTED TEAMS
During the final phase, the seven selected teams - chosen for their high level of innovation and strong potential for application in the airport environment - will work closely with executives and experts from Athens International Airport, as well as with the ACE mentor and partner network, in order to adapt their solutions to real operational needs and implement pilot trials in an airport setting.
•    Angely is developing a passive detection system for concealed weapons that enables discreet and seamless passenger security screening at airports. 
•    AviSense.ai offers a platform that combines data from multiple sources and leverages artificial intelligence to enhance airport security and operational efficiency. 
•    CDXi Solutions is developing AIrfield, an artificial intelligence platform that integrates and analyzes airport operational data in real time. 
•    Dataphoria provides a Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) platform that helps organizations measure, manage, and strategically utilize their sustainability data. 
•    Honestli develops digital certification technology that ensures the authenticity and integrity of photos and videos from the moment they are captured. 
•    SigniVoice offers innovative accessibility solutions, using artificial intelligence to bridge communication between deaf or hard-of-hearing individuals and hearing people. 
•    Transitool develops digital tools that improve the transit passenger experience by providing information and guidance during transfers. 

THE ECOSYSTEM SUPPORTING INNOVATION
For the first time, the contribution of the Ecosystem Partners network is particularly significant, strategically supporting the program and the dissemination of innovation. The network includes universities, research labs, innovation hubs, and venture capital funds, among them ahedd Digital Innovation Hub, AD&PR LAB, Intelligent Systems Lab, the National Technical University of Athens, the Innovation & Entrepreneurship Unit of the University of Ioannina, Uni.Fund, and Evercurious.

SOFTWARE
Ten years after its launch, The Digital Gate continues to serve as a meeting point for innovation, academic knowledge, and the market, creating opportunities for the development of technologies with real impact in the aviation sector and contributing to shaping the future of airport services.
As stated by the Director of the Information Systems & Telecommunications Business Unit of Athens International Airport, Mr. Alexandros Ziomias:
“At Athens International Airport, Digital Gate brings innovation closer to practice, turning ideas into solutions tested in real airport conditions. By leveraging new technologies, we enhance daily airport operations and upgrade the passenger experience, creating tangible and measurable benefits.”

About ACE - ACE is the incubator and Technology Transfer Office of the Athens University of Economics and Business (AUEB), operating as an open innovation hub that supports startups, research teams, and aspiring founders from across Greece. Recognized as Greece's leading startup hub for the second consecutive year, ACE ranked 95th among Europe's 180 leading startup hubs, according to the Europe's Leading Startup Hubs 2026 report by the Financial Times and Statista.

www.ace.aueb.gr  
e-mail: [email protected] 
tel: 210 8203827 / 829