After the successful partnership and conclusion of the EIT Community Ignite NEB Hackathon in Cyprus, which brought together 52 innovators collaboratively tackling urban challenges, CyprusInno (powered by SocialTech Lab) is partnering with Kimitisik for the second time to host the Urban Innovators Academy.

A collaborative effort between CyprusInno (powered by SocialTech Lab) and Kimitisik, supported by EIT Urban Mobility, an initiative of the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT), a body of the European Union, the Urban Innovators Academy invites passionate change-makers from across the world to join a transformative journey in Cyprus from March 15–20, 2025. This unique five-day challenge-based training programme is designed to shape the future of sustainable mobility by fostering collaboration between bachelor students and key stakeholders, addressing urban mobility challenges.

With over 12 years of expertise in delivering training and mentorship in innovation and entrepreneurship for urban mobility, Kimitisik will provide participants with invaluable knowledge and support. This will be complemented by SocialTech Lab’s eight years of experience in uniting diverse communities for collective entrepreneurship and peace-building.

Applications are open to students who have completed at least their second year of an undergraduate degree in fields like engineering, IT, and urban planning, as well as academia, municipalities, and industry stakeholders from RIS countries*.

The Urban Innovators Academy will welcome a cohort of 40 participants for its immersive five-day program in Cyprus. Among them, 35 RIS university students will receive a full tuition waiver from EIT, while the participation fee for other participants will be €950.

The programme will feature training content tailored to equip students with essential skills and knowledge in problem analysis, ideation, business modeling, market research, and pitching. Continuous coaching and support will be provided throughout the learning journey, ensuring participants gain valuable insights into innovation and entrepreneurship within urban mobility. Participants will work collaboratively in teams to develop scalable solutions for sustainable urban mobility in Cyprus and beyond, addressing challenges provided by local stakeholders. Participants will receive feedback and ongoing mentorship from trainers and experts throughout the experience. The programme will also include three online webinars and in-person innovation days (dates and locations TBC) held prior to the main five-day event.

After the completion of the programme, participants will gain access to unique networking opportunities across Europe, expert training and mentorship, an extensive alumni network, engagement with cities and community stakeholders, and the tools to develop an entrepreneurial mindset to accelerate their business ventures.

Interested applicants are encouraged to learn more about the programme and submit their applications at urbanacademy.socialtechlab.org or contact [email protected] or [email protected]. Applications are open until January 30, 2025, at 23:59 EET.

*Check from the list below to see if your country/region is eligible for the RIS between 2021 and 2024:

EU Member States: Bulgaria, Croatia, Czechia, Estonia, Greece, Spain, Italy, Cyprus, Latvia, Lithuania, Hungary, Malta, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, Slovakia

Horizon Europe Associated Countries: Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia, Türkiye, Ukraine

Outermost Regions: Guadeloupe, French Guiana, Réunion, Martinique, Mayotte and Saint-Martin (France), the Azores and Madeira (Portugal), and the Canary Islands (Spain)

Kimitisik

Kimitisik is dedicated to revolutionizing education and fostering lifelong learning. With over 12 years of experience, Kimitisik empowers individuals to reach their full potential through innovative programs. Kimitisik offers flexible learning solutions, including on-site workshops and online courses, adapting to evolving needs. Its network spans 23 countries, building global innovation ecosystems to tackle societal and technological challenges. Kimitisik’s diverse team of educators, entrepreneurs, and experts is united by a vision to transform education and mentoring. They support university administrators, learning and development specialists, and innovation professionals in developing innovative thinking and practices.

SocialTech Lab

SocialTech Lab works at the intersection of technology, entrepreneurship, and peacebuilding to bridge divides, empower local change-makers, solve social and environmental challenges, and cultivate resilient ecosystems in conflict-affected regions. Through its platforms, SocialTech Lab provides transformative digital tools and live programs (e.g., CyprusInno), as well as physical resources (e.g., The Base by CyprusInno) that enable local entrepreneurs to thrive, driving economic growth and social progress in even the most challenging environments.