Open Calls

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

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.

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.

RIF Launches Free Workshop To Support Research Funding Applications

Overview

The Research and Innovation Foundation (RIF) is organising a free proposal-writing workshop for applicants preparing submissions under its “Research in Enterprises” call (ENTERPRISES/0326). The workshop will take place on 2 June 2026, from 10:30 to 12:30, at the Research and Innovation Foundation.

The session is intended for participants preparing proposals for the ENTERPRISES/0326 call, particularly those with no previous experience or limited experience in proposal writing. It aims to strengthen their knowledge and skills through presentations and hands-on guidance.

Benefits

Participants will receive expert guidance on how to prepare proposals for the ENTERPRISES/0326 call, helping them better understand the proposal-writing process and RIF submission requirements.

Participation is free of charge.

Who can apply

The workshop is aimed at individuals from:

  • Research Organisations
  • Enterprises
  • Other private and public sector bodies

Participants do not requireprevious experiencein proposal writing. They should be preparing proposals for the “Research in Enterprises” (ENTERPRISES/0326) call.

Criteria

Due to the limited number of available places, priority will be given to participants who:

  • Are submitting a proposal to RIF programmes for the first time, specifically to the ENTERPRISES/0326 call
  • Intend to participate in proposals as project coordinators (leaders)
  • Are not already project coordinators in RIF-funded projects from previous “Research in Enterprises” calls

How to apply

Interested participants must register through the online participation form by 25 May 2026 at 13:00. The workshop will be conducted in Greek.

Participants must first watch the recording of the ENTERPRISES/0326 webinar, held on 28 April 2026, before attending the proposal-writing workshop.

For more information, applicants can contact the RIF Partner Support Centre at 22205000 or support@research.org.cy.

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