The Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Keve) is urging Cypriot small and medium-sized enterprises, startups and innovation-led businesses to take a closer look at a funding channel that remains underused by many firms: Cascade Funding, also known as Financial Support to Third Parties (FSTP).
Through this mechanism, organisations participating in European Union-funded projects can open calls that extend financial support, services and infrastructure access to companies and stakeholders that were not part of the original consortium. For smaller firms, the model offers a practical route into European programmes without the administrative burden of joining a large EU project from the outset.
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A Practical Route Into European Innovation Funding
In a circular to its members, Keve said the mechanism is designed to widen participation in European funding and make support more accessible to SMEs and startups working in technology, innovation and the green transition.
According to the chamber, the opportunities are particularly relevant for businesses developing, testing, demonstrating or commercialising new products, services and technologies. Depending on the specific call, assistance may include direct grants, pilot deployments, access to technological infrastructure, mentoring, business development support and, in some cases, international networking.
Opportunities Across Multiple Sectors
Keve said it had compiled an indicative table of selected Cascade Funding calls that were open as of September 4, 2026, and could be relevant to Cypriot businesses. The chamber noted that the list was not exhaustive.
The available opportunities span a broad range of sectors, including culture and creative industries, advanced manufacturing and raw materials, agri-food, the circular economy, cybersecurity, transport, robotics, women’s entrepreneurship, deep tech, social action and rights.
For each opportunity, the chamber’s table includes a short programme summary, the relevant application link, the thematic area covered, the categories of eligible applicants and the deadline for submission.
Why The Mechanism Matters
Keve stressed that requirements differ from one call to another, including the level of co-financing expected from applicants. That flexibility can be an advantage for smaller companies, but it also means businesses must review each opportunity carefully to determine whether it aligns with their capabilities and growth plans.
The chamber said the initiative is intended to help Cypriot companies navigate the crowded European funding landscape more efficiently and identify opportunities at an earlier stage.
Monthly Updates For Interested Companies
Keve is also inviting companies to register their interest in receiving a monthly update on Cascade Funding and other European funding mechanisms and programmes. The update is designed to help businesses spot relevant opportunities early, particularly those aligned with investment priorities, innovation road maps and expansion plans.
Companies can register their interest through the chamber’s short form here: Keve registration form.
The push comes at a time when European programmes continue to offer SMEs and startups a pathway to develop and test new technologies, products and services without having to participate directly in the wider EU-funded projects that sit behind the calls.
