A call for a National Secretary to run and coordinate the new information center “EIT Community RIS Hub,” which is about to be launched by the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) in Cyprus, was announced yesterday during an Info Day co-organized by EIT and the Research and Innovation Foundation (RIF).

According to a press release by RIF, the event took place at the Leventis Gallery in Nicosia, where representatives from businesses, research institutions, and academia had the opportunity to learn about the funding and support tools provided by EIT Knowledge and Innovation Communities. These communities aim to find solutions to major societal challenges, such as climate change and sustainable energy.

During the event, Marton Herczeg, Head of the Innovation Ecosystem Unit at EIT, announced the call for applications to staff the local centers that will operate in Cyprus, Malta, Ukraine, and Montenegro.

Their mission, as stated, is to provide information and guidance on the opportunities offered by EIT Knowledge and Innovation Communities, as well as strengthen collaborations between businesses and academic and research organizations.

Mr. Herczeg emphasized that Cyprus, Malta, Montenegro, and Ukraine are just the beginning, as their goal is to establish similar centers in a total of 20 European countries. This initiative aims to accelerate innovation on a pan-European level and contribute to a more sustainable and competitive future.

It should be noted that the establishment of these local centers is part of EIT's regional program to bridge the innovation gap observed in Europe, and their operations are expected to commence this year.

According to Theodore Loukaidis, Director-General of RIF, "EIT plays a crucial role in implementing the new European Innovation Agenda by enhancing participants' innovation capacity and providing solutions to pressing global challenges, while nurturing entrepreneurial talent."

“As the coordinating entity for Cyprus' participation in the Horizon Europe program, RIF has an important mission to fulfill. Through the National Contact Points, the Foundation offers a wide range of free services and personalized advisory support, including finding partners and assistance in proposal preparation and writing. In simple terms, participants have a close and reliable collaborator that significantly enhances their ability to successfully engage in EU research and innovation projects," he added.

The Research and Innovation Foundation is the national agency responsible for supporting and promoting research, technological development, and innovation in Cyprus.

The Foundation's mission is accomplished through the design and management of research project funding programs and innovative activities, combined with support for the integration of Cypriot researchers into research activities at the European and international levels.

EIT, on the other hand, is a European entity that is an integral part of the EU's Horizon Europe framework for research and innovation, under Pillar III. The Institute strongly supports pan-European collaborations, EIT Knowledge and Innovation Communities, and synergies between higher education, research field, and innovation sector.