Digital Agenda has recently launched the Alpha Stage Startups Innovation Platform, an exciting arena for startups and Innovation Teams to showcase their prowess in artificial intelligence (AI). The competition titled "Digital Agenda Alpha Stage Artificial Intelligence Competition" or DAAS-AI is now open for entries.

DAAS-AI has cast its net wide, inviting teams not only from Cyprus and the surrounding regions but from across the globe to present their groundbreaking work in AI. However, there's a catch. These innovations should have a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) between 3 and 5, suggesting a degree of maturity in the proposed technology but not yet fully commercialized.

The competition zeroes in on startups and Innovation Teams that are pioneering or incorporating AI solutions in sectors such as Tourism, Media, Learning/Education, and Wellbeing. Moreover, these startups or teams should be ripe for VC funding, indicating their readiness for nearing commercialization.

Out of the numerous applications, a jury will pre-select four promising proposals. These elite four will then battle it out in the Alpha Stage with their presentations. The ultimate winner will walk away with a handsome prize of 10,000 euros, courtesy of the Digital Agenda Cyprus Summit.

Entries will be judged based on:

• Their technology's readiness and TRL range.

• Innovative and responsible use of AI technology.

• Market fit and potential impact.

• Scientific excellence.

• A robust strategy for commercialization.

• Cohesive project team and clarity in IP strategy and protection.

Digital Agenda places a high emphasis on the originality of the work. Participating teams must ensure that their work doesn't infringe on any third-party rights or contractual obligations. Further, the confidentiality of the applications is paramount. Evaluators will be bound by a Non-Disclosure Agreement to ensure the privacy and protection of all submissions.

Post eligibility checks, international evaluators will review the applications. Each proposal will be scrutinized by at least two non-Cyprus-based evaluators with an apt scientific and business background. The climax of the evaluation will be a 15-minute presentation by the shortlisted teams on the Alpha Stage on October 17th, 2023. The live audience will witness this face-off against a panel of international experts. The day will culminate in the grand announcement of the winner during the Digital Agenda event.

19th July 2023: Competition opens for applications.

16th September 2023: Last date for submissions.

3rd October 2023: Announcement of the shortlisted teams.

17th October 2023: Alpha Stage presentations and announcement of the winner.