Idea Innovation Centre Launches 11th Startup Programme To Empower Emerging Entrepreneurs

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

November 26, 2025

Innovative Gateway To Business Success

The IDEA Innovation Centre of Bank of Cyprus has opened applications for its 11th Startup Programme, inviting visionary entrepreneurs to transform breakthrough ideas into thriving businesses. Applications are being accepted until February 13, 2026.

Nurturing Scalable Ideas

Recognized as Cyprus’ premier hub for innovation and business support, IDEA is seeking teams that are developing novel products or services or innovating novel solutions to persistent challenges. To qualify, applicants must consist of at least two dedicated team members and demonstrate that their concept holds the potential to scale beyond local borders through advanced technology.

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Comprehensive Support And Funding

The programme spans nine intensive months, merging robust funding with structured support. Participating startups will receive seed capital of €20,000 and undergo rigorous business-creation training designed to establish and optimize operational frameworks. Complementary services include expert mentorship from industry leaders, as well as legal, accounting, marketing, and ICT advisory, ensuring founders are well-equipped to navigate the competitive business landscape.

Strategic Networking And Investment Opportunities

In addition to foundational training, the programme facilitates access to business-development resources such as networking events and introductions to angel investors. Over the past decade, IDEA has evolved into a cornerstone of the Bank of Cyprus’ long-term commitment to fostering entrepreneurship, having supported the launch of 100 startups and assisted over 260 entrepreneurs in transforming early-stage ideas into established ventures.

Driving Economic Growth

The initiative is a strategic investment aimed at stimulating economic growth and harnessing local talent. Many alumni have successfully secured both local and international investment, expanded their operations globally, and generated more than 120 jobs, underscoring the tangible impact of a well-supported entrepreneurial ecosystem.

The Future Forbes Realty Global Properties

RIF Launches €500,000 BRIDGE2HORIZON Call To Help Cypriot Consortia Leaders Prepare For Horizon Europe

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

March 27, 2026

The Research and Innovation Foundation (RIF) has opened a new call under BRIDGE2HORIZON/0326, with a total budget of €500,000 and funding of up to €100,000 per project. The programme is intended to strengthen Cyprus-registered research and innovation organisations in areas aligned with the country’s Smart Specialisation Strategy 2023–2030 and upcoming Horizon Europe work programmes.

RIF says the call is also designed to increase the number of Cypriot organisations that coordinate collaborative projects and lead pan-European research networks under Horizon Europe Pillar II and the programme’s European Missions.

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Benefits

Total call budget: €500,000.
Maximum funding per project: €100,000.
The call is co-funded by the Republic of Cyprus and the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) under the THALEIA 2021–2027 programme.

Who can apply

The host organisation may be a:

Research Organisation
Enterprise
Other Organisation.

Eligible partner organisations may also include Research Organisations, Enterprises, and Other Organisations.

Criteria

The collaboration network must include at least one Enterprise (Category B) and one Research Organisation (Category A).

The call is aimed at projects in thematic areas relevant both to Cyprus’ Smart Specialisation Strategy and to future Horizon Europe priorities.

How to apply

Deadline: 29 May 2026, 13:00, or earlier if the budget is exhausted.
Submission portal: proposals must be submitted through the IRIS Portal.
Call documents: available under the call announcement in IRIS.

RIF will also hold an online information webinar on Friday, 3 April 2026, 12:00–13:00 local time. Interested applicants must register in advance through the link provided on the call page, and may submit questions ahead of time during registration.

For further information, applicants can contact RIF’s Partner Support Centre at 22205000 or support@research.org.cy.

About the programme

BRIDGE2HORIZON is part of RIF’s effort to help Cypriot organisations build the capacity needed to compete more successfully in Horizon Europe, particularly in collaborative projects where Cyprus-based entities take on a stronger coordinating role.

Open Calls