The Research and Innovation Foundation (RIF), in partnership with the Deputy Ministry of Research, Innovation and Digital Policy, has announced its flagship “AI in Government” funding programme. This is a key initiative under Cyprus’s 2025 Annual Governance Programme to accelerate digital transformation in public services through the deployment of Artificial Intelligence.

Overview

RIF is inviting Cypriot businesses and eligible entities to propose innovative AI solutions addressing real public sector needs. The two main challenges, issued by the Department of Meteorology, target:

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1. Early warning systems for extreme weather events
2. Agrometeorological support for the agricultural sector

Additional challenges are expected to be added in due course.

How to Apply

• Access the full call details, including eligibility, guidelines, and submission steps, through the IRIS Portal (iris.research.org.cy).
• Deadline: Please submit your proposal by October 17, 2025.
• For inquiries, please contact us at support@research.org.cy or call +357 22205000. 

Brainforest has launched the 6th edition of its Venture Program, a 10-week accelerator designed to support startups advancing solutions in biodiversity, forests, and ecosystem restoration.

The programme focuses on four key innovation areas:

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• AI & Data for Nature Intelligence
• Regenerative Agriculture & Soil Health
• Monetizing Biodiversity
• Deep-Tech for Ecosystem Restoration

Selected startups will benefit from individual coaching, strategic business model support, and access to Brainforest’s global network of experts and investors (NGOs, unicorn founders, impact investors).

In addition, one to two teams per cohort will be awarded $125,000  for a 7% equity stake in the selected company.

How to Apply

Applications are now open at brainforest.global/venture-program

• Programme duration: 10 weeks
• Funding opportunity: $125,000 equity for one to two selected teams
• Application deadline: 1 September 2025

For questions or further details, applicants can contact Brainforest at gl@brainforest.global

About Brainforest

Brainforest is a venture studio and accelerator dedicated to developing scalable solutions that protect and restore the world’s forests and biodiversity. Working at the intersection of entrepreneurship, science, and finance, the organisation connects innovators with resources, networks, and capital to accelerate systemic change in the field of nature and climate.

The Research and Innovation Foundation (RIF) has announced a new funding opportunity under its “Enhancing Business Capacity for New Product Development” programme (code: NPD-CAPBLD/0825), allocating a total budget of €580,000 to support Cypriot enterprises in developing innovative products and services.

How to Apply

Businesses from all sectors with at least 10 full-time employees are eligible to submit proposals for the development of new products or services.

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• Each project may receive up to €30,000 in funding.
• Applications must be submitted exclusively through the IRIS Portal at http://iris.research.org.cy/ by Friday, 3 October 2025, at 13:00 (local time)
• RIF has introduced a simplified process with an expedited evaluation to accelerate support.

For questions or technical assistance, companies can contact the RIF Partner Support Centre at support@research.org.cy or by phone at 22 205 000.