150 initiatives of solidarity across Greece

The Qualco Foundation, the non-profit initiative of Qualco Group, marks three years of impactful action and social contribution since its establishment. With more than 150 initiatives across Greece and over 10,000 beneficiaries, we have made a tangible difference in communities nationwide.

Our work focuses on key pillars – Education & Science, Culture, National Heritage, Sports, and Social Solidarity — all united by a single purpose: to create positive social impact and to foster the value of giving. We envision a society where everyone has equal opportunities. Guided by this belief, we collaborate with academic and cultural institutions, research centers, NGOs, schools, and sports organizations, building bridges of support and growth across society.

Mr. Orestis Tsakalotos, Chairman of Qualco Foundation, who envisioned the creation of the organization, notes: “At Qualco Foundation, our vision was born from a simple yet profound belief: that each of us can make a difference — that we can all give back, support, and empower the society we live in. We believe real change begins with small acts of kindness and solidarity — and this is the change we strive to bring every day, with consistency and respect for the common good”.

Among our key partners, are leading institutions such as the National Centre for Scientific Research “Demokritos”, the Athens Conservatoire, the Benaki Museum, and the Museum of Cycladic Art, as well as organizations with strong social missions, including “Together for Children” and “Open Door”. As Alexandra Martinou, President of Together for Children, stated: “The Qualco Foundation is a valuable ally in our mission to support more children in need. Through its generous support, we are able to carry out meaningful initiatives that improve their daily lives and open doors to a future with greater possibilities.”

Our impact extends beyond urban centers, through partnerships with local municipalities and communities, even in remote regions such as Kastellorizo and Agathonisi, ensuring that our support reaches those who need it most.

“Social contribution has always been a fundamental part of our identity at Qualco Group, ever since we started 25 years ago,” notes Ms. Olga Stamathioudaki, Corporate Affairs & Sustainability Director, Qualco Group. “The Qualco Foundation was born from our desire to move beyond fragmented CSR actions and create something with depth and continuity — an organization that unites people with a shared vision, who are inspired, who care, and who act; a catalyst for real and meaningful change.”

Among our notable initiatives stands the Institute of Greek Music Heritage (IEMK), which aims to preserve and promote Greek musical tradition. In collaboration with the Benaki Museum, IEMK presented the acclaimed exhibition “I think it’s time we listened…”, which celebrated 12 great musical figures of the 20^th century, attracting nearly 4,000 visitors and earning outstanding reviews.

Our newest initiative is the Greek Language Institute (INEL), founded to preserve and globally promote the Greek language. On June 5–6, 2025, INEL will host its first International Conference on Teaching Greek as a Second/Foreign Language and Multilingualism, in Athens.

According to Fotis Papathanasiou, General Director, Qualco Foundation: “The Foundation will continue to collaborate with key institutions that serve our Society and Culture and help safeguard our heritage, while also developing initiatives that promote innovation and equitable access to these valuable assets. Our focus on the Greek language and musical heritage will expand methodically and steadily into new areas, amplifying the impact of our work.”

Ms. Anna Maria Kosmoglou, Strategic Programs Executive at the Qualco Foundation, emphasizes: “In just three years, we have implemented more than 150 initiatives across Greece — reaching even remote areas such as Kastellorizo, Agathonisi, the mountainous Zagori, and the Pomak villages of Thrace. Our activities cover a wide spectrum: supporting the basic needs of vulnerable groups, empowering children through education, scholarships, and music programs, as well as preserving and showcasing both traditional and contemporary Greek culture”.

Mr. Manolis Raptakis, General Director of the Association of Parents and Friends of People with Disabilities “Agapi”, adds: “The donation of a 7-seater vehicle from the Qualco Foundation was vital for the safe transportation of our beneficiaries, especially those from remote villages in Rethymno who rely on wheelchairs. This support is invaluable for running and sustaining our daily programs at the Day Care and Training Center for People with Disabilities.”