Suna Akbayir

Suna Akbayir is the founder and CEO of Artech, headquartered in Brussels with an R&D office in Leuven. Holding an MBA and a bachelor's degree in Political Science and International Relations, she has been actively involved in international projects funded under EU Programmes since 2005. Her career spans public, academic, and private sectors, with extensive experience managing international R&D projects.

Under her leadership, Artech has become a hub for innovation, leveraging AI-driven methodologies and a diverse team of scientists and industry experts to provide cutting-edge IT and AI services, particularly in the RegTech sector. Her entrepreneurial skills are evident in her ability to lead complex initiatives, coordinate with startups and leading industries, and foster sustainability and regulatory compliance through innovative solutions like the Digital Product Passport.

Suna has a deep understanding of European Union governance, EU and national funded projects, and R&D programs. She excels in IPR negotiations and preparing analytical documents and conceptual notes. Her entrepreneurial acumen is further demonstrated through her success in building and maintaining strong relationships with national and international authorities, backed by 20 years of experience in networking and international affairs.

In her previous roles, Suna has been a driving force in various capacities, such as establishing the International R&D Grant Department at Sistem Global and leading university-industry collaborations at Koç University. She has mentored numerous technology SMEs, helping them navigate market-oriented projects and secure funding from national and international grant programs. Her strategic vision and commitment to innovation have made her a prominent figure in the field of international R&D and entrepreneurship.