The Heraklion Chamber of Commerce & Industry (HCCI) is a distinguished institution that has been actively supporting businesses and fostering economic development for over a century. Established in 1924, HCCI is one of the largest and most influential chambers in Greece, representing a diverse membership base of more than 26,700 enterprises across multiple economic sectors.
As an autonomous, non-profit public body, HCCI operates independently of governmental subsidies, relying solely on financial contributions from its members, membership fees, and grants provided by various funding programs. This independent structure allows the Chamber to focus entirely on serving the needs of the business community without external political influence.
The primary mission of HCCI is to promote and enhance the continuous growth of the local business ecosystem while ensuring the sustainable development of the regional economy. The Chamber provides a wide range of services designed to support its members, including business registration, advisory services for exports, funding opportunities, and networking facilitation. Additionally, it plays an essential role in public relations, mediation services, and policy advocacy, all of which contribute to a dynamic and competitive business environment.
Training and professional development are among the key focus areas of the Chamber. Over the past decade, more than 10,000 business professionals have received training through specialized programs designed to enhance skills and competencies in various industries. Furthermore, HCCI actively promotes international trade and market expansion, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), by facilitating participation in trade fairs and fostering business collaborations at both national and international levels. A special emphasis is placed on promoting Cretan products, such as olive oil, wine, rusks, and cheese, to expand their presence in global markets.
Beyond its direct business support services, HCCI is deeply engaged in strategic initiatives and international collaborations. The Chamber is an active member of prominent business networks, including the Enterprise Europe Network, the International Chamber of Commerce, and EuroChambres. Through these affiliations, it strengthens its role in European and international business affairs, advocating for the interests of its members on a broader scale.
HCCI has also been at the forefront of significant economic and developmental projects. Notable initiatives include the Cretan Olive Cluster, the Anopolis Manufacturing Park, and the Cretan Energy and Water Clusters, which contribute to regional economic diversification and innovation. The Chamber has successfully implemented numerous EU-funded projects under programs such as Horizon2020, Interreg, Erasmus+, COSME, etc. focusing on areas such as innovation, business development, and energy sustainability.
Through its commitment to excellence, strategic vision, and unwavering support for businesses, the Heraklion Chamber of Commerce & Industry continues to play a vital role in shaping the economic landscape of Crete and beyond.
