Science - Research - Education - Innovation
We recognize that science, research, and innovation drive economic growth and prosperity while creating opportunities for initiatives, transformative innovations, and new challenges.
We have been supporting programs and responsible initiatives that promote education, innovation, technological development, and entrepreneurship for many years. In more detail:
- We supported scholarship programs for undergraduate and postgraduate studies in Greece and abroad.
- We have contributed to the organization and sponsorship of Scientific Meetings (Conferences, Summer Schools, Seminars, Workshops), which aim to promote research and science.
- We supported educational institutions and libraries.
Education: Learning Environments with Modern Infrastructure - Investing in Knowledge
Education is a fundamental pillar of the National Bank of Greece’s social strategy. Its participation in the “Marietta Giannakou” school renovation program marks an emblematic investment in the new generation.
The initiative is being implemented jointly with the four systemic banks, under the coordination of the Hellenic Bank Association (HBA), with an investment of €100 million in 2025 -of which €25 million was contributed by NBG- to upgrade 430 schools (kindergartens, primary, lower secondary, upper secondary, and special schools) across the country. The interventions focus on improving accessibility infrastructure (ramps and restrooms for people with disabilities) as well as educational and athletic facilities (painting, sanitation facilities, schoolyards with basketball and volleyball courts, and playgrounds), with the aim of creating a modern, high-quality learning environment.
The first renovated schools in Athens and the region welcomed students at the start of the school year, in the presence of representatives from the Banks’ management and the Government. NBG, together with the other three systemic banks, has already committed to doubling total funding to €200 million for the 2024–2025 biennium and to continue with similar contributions over the following two years (2026–2027).
In addition, NBG, in collaboration with Greek banks that are members of the HBA, contributed a total donation of €800,000 for renovation works and seismic reinforcement of the historic Zografeion Lyceum of Constantinople (Istanbul), as a gesture of respect toward the Greek diaspora and our cultural heritage.
Creation of digital laboratories in schools in Attica
In collaboration with the Ministry of Education, Research and Religious Affairs, and Building Infrastructures S.A., we created 22 Edulabs open technology labs from 2016 to 2018 in 17 school units in Attica, where more than 5,000 students are housed to upgrade their digital infrastructure. Edulabs support 13-28 student seats per classroom and provide students and teachers with the infrastructure required to access digital technology and its many advantages in education.
Our sponsorship includes the provision of technological equipment, according to the specifications set by the Ministry of Education, the supply of new desks, and technical support throughout the year.
This initiative is part of our participation as an Urban Development Fund of the Region of Attica in the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) projects, which concern the Design, Financing, Construction, and Technical Management of School Units in Urban Areas.
Our strategic goal is to make these digital classrooms spaces of knowledge and learning and inform students on innovation, technology, environment, etc., through programs in collaboration with reputable institutions and public benefit institutions.
The added value of Edulabs is reflected in the words of the users themselves - the I.T. managers of the units who convey their enthusiasm and that of the end-users, the children themselves:
- "The students are excited at the idea of going into the lab. They get in touch with open software and open standards. They learn to interact with the equipment, not just through the screen. Teachers enjoy the interactive whiteboard, which is the most modern thing a school can have and can be used by all colleagues. The children are looking forward to doing projects with the 3D printer and robots."
- "It's night and day compared to what we have seen so far. It's the most modern we could have, and it's enjoyed by teachers and students alike. Excitement is the word that would describe the feeling of anyone who enters the lab, student and teacher alike."
- "The existence of the workshop alone is news for the school. Children are getting access to equipment and learning about technologies they might not have had access to in other circumstances."
The above action was awarded at the Hellenic Responsible Business Awards 2018 with a Gold distinction in the category "Education/Fellowships."
Our contribution to Sport
With faith in our commitment to support Sport and the sporting ideal, we have stood by the side of distinguished athletes of a new generation, who, through their competitions and distinctions, honor our country worldwide and promote the standards of consistency, hard work, and strength of soul to the youth.