Investment & Fund Management

Ecce Homo, a start-up clothing brand founded by Panos Kapsomanis and Stefanos Giotakis, identified a significant gap in the European market for high-quality underwear tailored for the LGBTQ+ community. The founders noted that existing options were often oversexualized and of low quality, prompting them to create a brand that emphasizes functionality and inclusivity. Their mission extends beyond commerce; they aim to combat discrimination against the LGBTQ+ community through their products.

However, as a new venture, Ecce Homo faced challenges in securing financing, particularly for a product that was innovative and closely tied to personal identity. The founders expressed that introducing a unique product in a conservative market often led to difficulties in gaining acceptance and support. To overcome these financial hurdles, they secured an EU-guaranteed loan from Piraeus Bank, backed by the European Investment Fund (EIF) under the Investment Plan for Europe. This funding was crucial for purchasing necessary equipment and raw materials, with Stefanos stating, “Honestly, we wouldn’t have started without the loan.”

Ecce Homo is committed to sustainability, opting for a production model that only manufactures on demand, thereby avoiding excess stock. Additionally, they have pledged to donate 5% of their returns to LGBTQ+ organizations, allowing customers to choose which organization to support at the time of purchase. This initiative reflects their dedication to social responsibility, which is a core aspect of their brand identity. The name "Ecce Homo," meaning "behold the man," encapsulates their philosophy of acceptance and non-discrimination.