Open Calls

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

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.

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.

RIF Launches €1 Million Funding Initiative For International Startups

Overview

The Research and Innovation Foundation (RIF) has unveiled its latest funding call, PRE-SEED/0526, under the “Creation And Initial Development Of Startups With International Orientation (PRE-SEED)” program. This initiative is engineered to empower emerging companies with the potential to scale globally, reinforcing Cyprus’ commitment to nurturing an advanced innovation ecosystem.

Funding Details

Allocated a total budget of €1 million, the call permits up to €119,999 in funding per project. This support is poised to help startups transition from initial concept to tangible development, setting the stage for impactful market entries on an international scale.

Submission Process

Applicants are required to submit their proposals through the IRIS portal by September 11, 2026, at 1:00 PM. Thorough preparation and adherence to the provided guidelines are essential to enhance the competitiveness of each submission.

Advancing Innovation

The initiative not only fuels the growth of individual startups but also bolsters the overall innovation framework within Cyprus. By supporting early-stage companies, RIF is creating a robust pipeline of enterprises capable of thriving in global markets.

Further Assistance

For additional information or support, interested parties can contact the RIF Partner Support Centre at 22205000 or via email at callsupport@research.org.cy.

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