The Science and Technology Park of Crete (STEP-C) of the Foundation for Research and Technology – Hellas (FORTH) and the Managing Company of the Science & Technology Park of Crete (EDAP STEP-C S.A.), in the context of their ongoing efforts to provide high-quality services to businesses, partners, and the research community, have successfully obtained ISO 9001:2015 certification. The certificate was awarded to the Director of STEP-C, President & CEO of EDAP STEP-C S.A., Dr. George Papamichail, by the CEO of TÜV NORD Hellas, Ms. Vasiliki Kazazi, in the presence of the President of FORTH, Prof. Vassilis Charmandaris, and Ms. Uxue Azpiroz, Director of the TÜV NORD Hellas office in Crete.

This certification further enhances the quality and efficiency of the procedures of STEP-C and EDAP STEP-C S.A., promotes transparency in their operations, and strengthens the trust and satisfaction of their partners. The certification process was carried out by the accredited body TÜV NORD Hellas, which confirmed their compliance with the requirements of the ISO 9001:2015 standard. The preparation of the relevant documentation and support during the process was undertaken by the consulting company ETAM.

Dr. George Papamichail, Director of STEP-C, President & CEO of EDAP STEP-C S.A., Prof. Vassilis Charmandaris, President of FORTH,
Ms. Uxue Azpiroz, Director of the TÜV NORD Hellas office in Crete and Ms. Vasiliki Kazazi, CEO of TÜV NORD Hellas

Dr. George Papamichail stated:

“Obtaining the ISO 9001:2015 certification marks an important milestone for the Science and Technology Park of Crete and EDAP STEP-C S.A., sealing our continuous commitment to quality, organization, and ongoing improvement. This recognition by an internationally renowned certification body enhances our credibility and outward-looking character, and lays a solid foundation for further strengthening our role as a hub for promoting and supporting innovation and entrepreneurship. We sincerely thank all our staff and external partners for their excellent work and systematic efforts that led to the successful completion of this process.”

Ms. Uxue Azpiroz, Director of the Crete Office of TÜV NORD Hellas, stated:

“TÜV NORD Hellas warmly congratulates the Science and Technology Park of Crete and EDAP STEP-C S.A. on their successful certification to ISO 9001:2015. This distinction is a tangible testament to their commitment to quality, continuous improvement, and support for innovation and entrepreneurship. As a certification body with many years of experience and a strong presence in Greece, we are particularly proud to contribute to strengthening organizations that consistently serve progress and scientific excellence. Our collaboration was outstanding and gives us great optimism for the future. We remain committed to supporting such notable initiatives.”

About the Science and Technology Park of Crete

The Science and Technology Park of Crete (STEP-C) was founded in 1993 by the Foundation for Research and Technology – Hellas (FORTH) and constitutes one of FORTH’s key structures for promoting research, innovation, and entrepreneurship. It offers approximately 4,000 sq.m. of office and laboratory space, hosting start-ups and innovative companies, primarily technology-oriented. Its facilities are located on FORTH’s campus, in a privileged natural setting about 10 km from the city of Heraklion. Its proximity to the University Hospital, the University of Crete, and the Hellenic Mediterranean University provides a significant development advantage, due to the concentration of laboratories, research infrastructures, and scientists who can actively support the companies hosted in the incubator.