Evgenios Evgeniou: Cyprus’ thriving tech cluster makes it easier for ICT companies to relocate

Tech companies interested in relocating to Cyprus will be coming into an already existing tech cluster that is thriving, making it easier for them to develop their business on the island, Invest Cyprus’ Chairman Evgenios Evgeniou told the 2nd Cyprus The New Global Tech & Innovation Hub Summit currently underway in Limassol.

The summit has gathered ICT companies and startups interested in relocating to Cyprus, with government officials as well as established companies on the island on hand to present the reasons why the island is the ideal tech hub.

“We want to explain how we can help you and how we can be beside you on this journey if you decide to embark on it,” Evgeniou explained.

The government’s Vision 2035 strategy aims to transform Cyprus into the best place to live, do business and to work, he added. Part of that is to attract high specialisation companies and personnel.

“If you decide to consider Cyprus as your base you are not coming here in the context of an ad hoc decision; you are coming into an already existing tech cluster that is thriving,” Evgeniou pointed out. “This makes it easier for you to develop your business on the island. We are here because of a long-term strategy of the country and you are following in the footsteps of many other companies that did it before you.”

He added that Invest Cyprus is on hand to provide ongoing support to take their business off the ground and to take prospective companies through all the procedures to start their business in Cyprus and bring their employees. “We’ve done it with plenty of companies and brought thousands of employees; there is a setup, a process through which you can relocate to Cyprus. You will not be alone, not be in the dark. We are here to help you.”

He said aftercare services are important for Invest Cyprus “as we get your views and we pass them on to the government”. Evgeniou referred to the government’s roundtable discussion with investors last year, where they gave their feedback directly to the head of state. “The government took that feedback and took action and presented it to them.”

This is extremely important, he said: “You are going to a country where you are welcome, there is a process to guide you, but once you are on the ground, you know you have on the other side people who are here to listen, take your feedback on board and improve the environment for you and your employees.”

Organiser: IMH

Strategic Partner: Invest Cyprus

Strategic Telecom Partner: Cyta Business

Innovation Partner: Research & Innovation Foundation

Ecosystem Partner: TechIsland

Gold Sponsors: Bank of Cyprus, KPMG Cyprus

Silver Sponsors: Energame, Pafilia

Supporters: IMR, Island Private School

Official Media Sponsors: Cyprus Business News, Gold magazine, IFC Media, IN Business magazine