A cutting-edge project hosted by the University of Cyprus, aimed at enhancing the security of water distribution systems, is among 134 initiatives selected for funding under the European Research Council’s 2024 Proof of Concept grants. These grants, totaling €20 million, will support innovative projects from EU member states and Horizon Europe participants.
The Cypriot project, titled WaterSAFE: An Integrated Cyber-Physical Security Solution for Water Distribution Systems, has been awarded €150,000. This funding will help bridge the gap between scientific research and practical application, advancing the development of robust solutions for water system security.
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The Proof of Concept program empowers researchers to validate the practical feasibility of their ideas, assess commercial potential, and prepare for patent applications. It plays a critical role in transitioning scientific breakthroughs into market-ready technologies.
Selected projects span a range of fields, including autonomous satellite navigation, food fraud prevention, cancer drug repurposing, and improved treatments for life-threatening diseases.
This year’s grantees represent 20 countries across Europe. Germany, Italy, and the Netherlands lead with 15 projects each, followed by Spain and the UK (14 each), and Israel (12). Cyprus secured one grant, standing alongside nations such as Croatia, Poland, and Portugal.
The WaterSAFE project’s inclusion highlights Cyprus’s growing contribution to innovative, globally relevant research initiatives.