New €900,000 call for joint R&D projects between Cyprus and Israel

A new call for proposals with a total budget of €900,000 has been announced by the Cyprus Research and Innovation Foundation (RIF) in collaboration with the Israel Innovation Authority (IIA).

As stated in a RIF press release, the call provides an opportunity for Cypriot enterprises and research organisations to collaborate with companies from Israel to jointly develop innovative solutions in the fields of digital technologies, advanced materials, agri-food, marine and maritime systems, renewable energy, space technologies, health and environment.

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It is added that the submission of proposals for the Cyprus Network is conducted via the IRIS portal and the deadline is Wednesday, 30 October 2024, with interested parties invited to contact for more information the Foundation’s Partner Support Centre at +35722205000 or by email at support@research.org.cy and visit the link

It is noted that the call is co-funded by the Republic of Cyprus and the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) under the Cohesion Policy Programme “THALIA 2021-2027”.

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Uber Expands Into Luxury Travel With Acquisition Of Blacklane

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

March 31, 2026

Uber Broadens Its Portfolio

Uber Technologies is accelerating its foray into luxury and executive travel by acquiring Berlin-based Blacklane, a prominent provider of on-demand black-car chauffeur services. The strategic move underscores Uber’s objective to diversify beyond its core ride-hailing business into premium mobility solutions.

A Notable Exit For Blacklane

Founded in 2011, Blacklane has attracted over $100 million in funding from high-profile investors including Sixt, Mercedes-Benz, and ALFAHIM, a UAE-based conglomerate. The acquisition represents a significant exit for the company, which operates in major cities across Europe, the Middle East, Asia, South America, and North America.

Regulatory Milestones And Future Prospects

Completion of the deal is expected by the end of the year, pending regulatory approvals. The move follows the launch of Uber Elite, a premium service offering chauffeur rides, airport meet-and-greet options, and 24/7 support. The service is currently available in Los Angeles and San Francisco, with expansion planned to New York.

Conclusion

The acquisition expands Uber’s presence in premium mobility as demand for higher-end transport services grows. Competition in the sector continues to shift toward differentiated offerings, including executive and chauffeur-driven services.

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