Cyprus’ largest tech association, TechIsland, held its final networking event of 2025 on Friday, 12 December, bringing together more than 200 participants from the technology sector, business community, government, and institutional partners.
The event, TechIsland Connect #12 powered by Snapchat, marked the close of a productive year for the island’s fast-growing tech and innovation ecosystem.
Addressing attendees, TechIsland Chairman Valentinos Polykarpou welcomed the community and thanked Snapchat for supporting all TechIsland Connect events throughout 2025, underlining the importance of partnerships in strengthening collaboration across the ecosystem.
Reflecting on the year, Polykarpou noted that 2025 has been another pivotal year for the sector. He referenced findings from a KPMG Cyprus study, which show that the tech and innovation sector now contributes 16% of Cyprus’ Gross Value Added, equivalent to €8 billion, placing Cyprus second in the EU for ICT contribution to GVA. Over the past decade, ICT GVA has grown by 347%, while the sector’s workforce has more than tripled — clear indicators that technology is becoming a core pillar of the Cypriot economy.
Looking ahead, Polykarpou pointed to the government’s ambition for Cyprus to join the Schengen Area in 2026, describing it as a positive step that would further strengthen the country’s position within the EU and support its evolution into a place where people can live, work, and innovate.
He also stressed the need for continued investment in STEM education, modernised curricula, and reskilling and upskilling initiatives, particularly as artificial intelligence reshapes industries globally and demand for digital skills continues to grow.
Summing up TechIsland’s evolving role, Polykarpou stated, “At TechIsland, we listen to our members and advocate for the growth of our industry. At the same time, our role has evolved to contribute to broader positive change for the economy and the community. We support, connect, and collaborate. We do not act alone — we bring people together.”
