Breaking news

RIF Unveils €16.2 Million Support for Cyprus’ Startups and Established Enterprises

by News Editor

May 22, 2025

RIF Unveils €16.2 Million Support for Cyprus’ Innovators

The Research and Innovation Foundation (RIF) has announced substantial funding of €16.2 million aimed at propelling Cyprus’s established and emerging businesses into the competitive global market. This funding initiative, targeting both seasoned enterprises and budding startups, is designed to cultivate the swift production of innovative products and services.

Upcoming Funding Calls

The funding will be distributed across three programs: INNOVATE and SEED, with a combined budget of €6.2 million, and the STEP programme, commanding a distinct budget of €10 million for expanding facilities and production lines. These programs collectively aim to supercharge competitive advantage on the international stage.

Follow THE FUTURE on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X and Telegram

Focus Areas and Participation

The INNOVATE program welcomes applications from companies in the pilot or market-testing stages, offering up to €1 million per project to enhance commercial production and worldwide distribution capabilities. Simultaneously, the SEED program directs its €3 million budget toward nurturing dynamic, startup ventures, each eligible for up to €500,000 to fast-track their competitive edge internationally.

A notable requirement for INNOVATE program applicants includes submitting audited financial statements and employer obligation documents from the Social Insurance Services.

STEP Program: Shaping Cyprus’ Innovation Future

The STEP program aligns with EU regulations, supporting Cyprus enterprises in developing advanced technologies, efficient green technologies, and biotechnologies. This initiative is anticipated to broaden Cyprus’s production infrastructure significantly.

Getting Ready

Potential participants should promptly prepare their proposals and gather necessary documentation to ensure their submissions upon the open call. Discover how enterprises are leveraging AI innovations to enhance their competitive stance.

Funded by the Republic of Cyprus and the European Regional Development Fund under Thalia 2021–2027, these initiatives promise a well-rounded boost to local innovation.

The Future Forbes Realty Global Properties

CSE Reports March Market Shares As Argus Tops With 30.83%

Overview

Cyprus Stock Exchange (CSE) reported €31.50 million in share transactions for March 2026, including €11.24 million in pre-agreed trades. Data also cover the first quarter, with total transactions reaching €86.06 million across January to March.

Detailed Market Analysis

CSE provides market share calculations both including and excluding pre-agreed transactions. March figures incorporate these trades, while separate data sets highlight activity without them. Such differentiation reflects varying trading dynamics and offers a clearer view of market structure. Bond values are excluded from percentage calculations.

Follow THE FUTURE on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X and Telegram

Quarterly Performance Metrics

Figures for the January–March period show how market shares shift depending on the calculation methodology. Year-to-date data provide a broader perspective on member activity across the exchange. Inclusion or exclusion of pre-agreed transactions affects comparative positioning. These metrics are used to assess overall performance trends.

Key Participant Performance

Argus Stockbrokers Ltd recorded a 30.83% market share in March, with transactions totaling €9.71 million, placing it first for the month. CISCO Ltd held a 24.54% share in March and ranked first for the quarter with 26.19%. Mega Equity Financial Services Ltd followed with 18.31% in March and 24.08% across the quarter. Additional participants included Eurobank EFG Equities with 8.04% and Atlantic Securities Ltd with 7.46%, contributing to overall market activity.

Aggregate Trading Volumes

Pre-agreed transactions accounted for €11.24 million of March’s total turnover. Overall trading value reached €86.06 million for the first quarter. These figures reflect both negotiated and regular market activity, providing a fuller picture of trading volumes.

Conclusion

CSE data outline the distribution of market shares and transaction volumes across members. Distinctions between pre-agreed and regular trades highlight differences in activity patterns. Reported figures provide a basis for evaluating market structure and participant performance.