On November 4, 2025, HellasQCI, the National Quantum Communication Infrastructure for the protection of sensitive data and critical infrastructures, received First Prize in the category “Best New Idea” within the thematic field “In-house actions for the digital transformation of the Ministry of Digital Governance and its supervised bodies.

This recognition celebrates the collective effort of the entire HellasQCI consortium — a diverse and dynamic team of universities, research institutes, and quantum technology leaders that have joined forces to develop Greece’s first national quantum communication infrastructure.

From network design and implementation to quantum key distribution and PQC integration, every partner has played a vital role in the project’s success. This award belongs to all members of the HellasQCI family, whose dedication and collaboration have driven the project forward from concept to impactful reality.

The award ceremony, expected to take place on a date to be announced soon, will be organised by the General Secretary for Information Systems and Digital Governance, Mr. Dimosthenis Anagnostopoulos, as part of the Ministry of Digital Governance’s awards 2024.

As the project approaches completion in the coming months, Greece is already planning the next steps to leverage the expertise, results, and infrastructure of HellasQCI, strengthening the country’s pivotal role in quantum communication technologies in Southeast Europe. This goal will be achieved through the cross-border expansion of HellasQCI into new initiatives such as SEEWQCI (South-East Europe to Western Europe Quantum Communication Infrastructure) and TransEuroOGS (Trans-European Optical Ground Stations), both starting in 2026 and advancing towards the creation of a pan-European quantum communication network.

Beyond the recognition, this award highlights the importance of innovation, teamwork, and trust in developing technologies shaping Europe’s quantum-secure digital future. HellasQCI represents both a national milestone and a pan-European example of how cross-disciplinary cooperation can deliver real advances in cybersecurity, resilience, and data protection.

This success marks not just an achievement, but a shared promise for the future: to continue strengthening Greece’s leadership in quantum communications and contributing to Europe’s transition toward a secure, interconnected digital era.

Read more about all the awards and winners of the “Digital Governance Awards 2024” here.