RIF Unveils €16.2 Million Support for Cyprus’ Startups and Established Enterprises

by News Editor

May 22, 2025

RIF Unveils €16.2 Million Support for Cyprus’ Innovators

The Research and Innovation Foundation (RIF) has announced substantial funding of €16.2 million aimed at propelling Cyprus’s established and emerging businesses into the competitive global market. This funding initiative, targeting both seasoned enterprises and budding startups, is designed to cultivate the swift production of innovative products and services.

Upcoming Funding Calls

The funding will be distributed across three programs: INNOVATE and SEED, with a combined budget of €6.2 million, and the STEP programme, commanding a distinct budget of €10 million for expanding facilities and production lines. These programs collectively aim to supercharge competitive advantage on the international stage.

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Focus Areas and Participation

The INNOVATE program welcomes applications from companies in the pilot or market-testing stages, offering up to €1 million per project to enhance commercial production and worldwide distribution capabilities. Simultaneously, the SEED program directs its €3 million budget toward nurturing dynamic, startup ventures, each eligible for up to €500,000 to fast-track their competitive edge internationally.

A notable requirement for INNOVATE program applicants includes submitting audited financial statements and employer obligation documents from the Social Insurance Services.

STEP Program: Shaping Cyprus’ Innovation Future

The STEP program aligns with EU regulations, supporting Cyprus enterprises in developing advanced technologies, efficient green technologies, and biotechnologies. This initiative is anticipated to broaden Cyprus’s production infrastructure significantly.

Getting Ready

Potential participants should promptly prepare their proposals and gather necessary documentation to ensure their submissions upon the open call. Discover how enterprises are leveraging AI innovations to enhance their competitive stance.

Funded by the Republic of Cyprus and the European Regional Development Fund under Thalia 2021–2027, these initiatives promise a well-rounded boost to local innovation.

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Global Investment Migration: Leading Residence And Citizenship Programs For 2026

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

February 24, 2026

European Dominance Challenged By Global Contenders

The 2026 edition of the Henley & Partners Residence and Citizenship Programs report shows increasing competition in the investment migration market. European programs, traditionally seen as the global benchmark, are now facing stronger competition from jurisdictions in the Middle East, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Caribbean as countries expand offerings aimed at attracting capital and internationally mobile investors.

New Entrants And Rapid Climbers Reshape The Landscape

Malta remains ranked first in the Global Citizenship Program Index for the 11th consecutive year, while Greece retains the top position in the Global Residence Program Index. At the same time, several jurisdictions improved their standings. The UAE moved from fifth to a joint second position, entering the top three for the first time. Countries including Costa Rica, New Zealand, Panama, and Singapore also gained ground, while Uruguay, Saudi Arabia, and the Maldives appeared as new entrants.

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Competing For Capital And Global Talent

Governments increasingly use residence and citizenship frameworks as tools to attract foreign investment and entrepreneurial talent. According to Henley & Partners Chairman Dr. Christian H. Kaelin, Europe remains a strong player, but countries such as Singapore and the UAE are accelerating reforms to strengthen their appeal to globally mobile investors.

Established Leaders And Agile Newcomers In Citizenship Programs

The Global Citizenship Program Index continues to be led by established programs. Malta’s citizenship-by-merit framework scored 77 points, maintaining its leading position, while Austria followed with a highly selective model. Programs in Grenada, St. Kitts and Nevis, and Nauru also received strong rankings. New entrants such as São Tomé and Príncipe and Samoa reflect a broader expansion of citizenship-based offerings.

European Consolidation And Emerging Residence Hubs

In the residence category, Greece remains first, supported by EU access and lifestyle advantages. Italy, Switzerland, and the UAE continue to compete closely, combining tax efficiency with investor-oriented policies. Portugal and Australia maintain strong positions, while Uruguay is emerging as a stable option with growing international interest.

Performance Metrics And Strategic Advantages

Both indexes evaluate 40 programs across factors including reputation, quality of life, compliance standards, investment requirements, and tax considerations. Austria and Malta scored strongly on program quality, while the UAE ranked highly in lifestyle and tax competitiveness. The rankings highlight how jurisdictions are positioning themselves to attract globally mobile capital.

Wealth On The Move

The report points to a broader shift in global wealth mobility. According to Dominic Volek, Group Head of Private Clients at Henley & Partners, investors increasingly prioritize stability, transparency, and clear long-term pathways when choosing residence or citizenship options.

As global uncertainty persists, residence and citizenship programs are increasingly viewed not only as investment tools but as strategic instruments for long-term mobility and risk diversification.

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