RIF Launches “AI in Government” Funding Programme to Drive Public Sector Innovation

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

August 29, 2025

The Research and Innovation Foundation (RIF), in partnership with the Deputy Ministry of Research, Innovation and Digital Policy, has announced its flagship “AI in Government” funding programme. This is a key initiative under Cyprus’s 2025 Annual Governance Programme to accelerate digital transformation in public services through the deployment of Artificial Intelligence.

Overview

RIF is inviting Cypriot businesses and eligible entities to propose innovative AI solutions addressing real public sector needs. The two main challenges, issued by the Department of Meteorology, target:

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Early warning systems for extreme weather events
Agrometeorological support for the agricultural sector

Additional challenges are expected to be added in due course.

How to Apply

Access the full call details, including eligibility, guidelines, and submission steps, through the IRIS Portal (iris.research.org.cy).
Deadline: Please submit your proposal by October 17, 2025.
For inquiries, please contact us at support@research.org.cy or call +357 22205000.

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Bending Spoons Unveils €1.5 Million Tech Scholarship Program For Top European Students

by News Editor

February 18, 2026

In a significant move towards fostering future tech leaders, Bending Spoons has launched the Bending Spoons Fellowship, offering up to €1.5 million in scholarships. This initiative aims to empower outstanding university students in computer science and related fields across Europe and the UK.

Details of the Fellowship Program

The fellowship program will provide ten scholarships worth €50,000 each annually, renewable for up to three years, to high-achieving students. This initiative is designed to provide not just financial support but also mentorship and optional paid internships, either virtually or at their headquarters in Milan.

Costanza Mazzei, the talent manager at Bending Spoons, emphasizes, “We believe exceptional talent deserves exceptional opportunities. Our fellowship aims to offer Europe’s most driven students the liberty, resources, and support necessary to reach the pinnacle of excellence.”

Applications for the Bending Spoons Fellowship open on February 10, 2026, with successful candidates notified by June 2026. Additionally, this fellowship aligns with Bending Spoons’ broader efforts to expand opportunities for underrepresented groups.

Supporting Emerging Cyber Talent

The Bending Spoons Fellowship demonstrates the company’s commitment to encouraging tech brilliance and addressing the shortage of skilled tech professionals. Furthermore, this initiative comes as the EU demographic shifts show an increase in foreign-born residents, as highlighted by recent EU demographics data.

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