Α record number of applications were submitted for a programme for creating and developing startups in Cyprus, the Research and Innovation Foundation (RIF) says in a press release.
It notes that the submission process for the PRE-SEED/0526 Call under the RIF “Creation and Initial Development of Startups with International Orientation (PRE-SEED)” Programme was successfully completed on the 11th of September 2026.
A total of 284 proposals were successfully submitted through RIF’s Portal, IRIS, marking a record level of participation for the Programme.
"The particularly high level of participation is a strong indication of the growing momentum in Cyprus’ startup sector, as an increasing number of teams and businesses seek to transform innovative ideas into products and services with international growth potential", it notes.
Furthermore, it says that the increased interest in the Programme and the record number of proposals further confirm the dynamism of Cyprus’ startup ecosystem, while highlighting the importance of continuously strengthening the opportunities available to new and innovative businesses.
The development of additional, appropriately targeted funding and support instruments can play a decisive role in unlocking the potential of entrepreneurial ideas emerging in the country and transforming them into sustainable businesses with international prospects, it stresses.
The Programme aims to support the creation and initial development of startups developing innovative products and services with the potential to enter and compete in international markets.
The proposal selection process will now follow. In accordance with the RESTART Programme’s Call for Proposals, this process includes the preliminary eligibility check and the scientific evaluation of the submitted proposals.
RIF says that it continues to actively support the development of a dynamic and competitive innovation ecosystem by creating opportunities for new business ideas and contributing to the transformation of innovation into products, services and businesses with international growth potential.
