The Cyprus Information Technology Enterprises Association (CITEA) has launched an ambitious strategic plan for the years 2024-2025, laying out a framework aimed at enhancing the IT sector in Cyprus. This plan revolves around five main pillars: protecting members' interests, strengthening CITEA's position in the ecosystem, improving value to members, improving financials, and contributing to technology development and adoption.

The first pillar focuses on safeguarding the interests of CITEA members. Key activities include dealing with public and private sector matters, addressing the challenge of IT resource and skills shortages, and tackling cybersecurity issues.

• Public Sector Collaboration: CITEA plans to collaborate with various stakeholders to develop strategies and initiatives. This includes assisting the Research, Innovation & Digital Policy Deputy Ministry with the Digital Economy and Society Index and working with the Treasury on tender procedures and contracts.

• Private Sector Engagement: Strategies here include collaborating with the Ministry of Commerce on technological upgrades for enterprises and designing subsidization schemes.

• Addressing IT Skills Shortage: Efforts will be directed towards preparing new e-skills reports, re-upskilling programs, and working with stakeholders, including the Ministry of Education, to build essential skills.

• Cybersecurity Focus: Collaborating with state stakeholders for cybersecurity strategies and providing support to these organizations is a priority. Additionally, funding and schemes will be developed to help enterprises enhance their cybersecurity measures.

The second pillar aims to reinforce CITEA’s role in Cyprus’ technology landscape.

• Intervening in Technology Matters: CITEA will monitor developments and intervene in technology matters, striving to establish itself as the main technology stakeholder in Cyprus.

• Awareness and Publicity: Maintaining media relationships, issuing press releases, and enhancing digital presence are part of this strategy.

• Building Relationships with Stakeholders: This includes providing assistance and improving relations with the Organization of Employers and Businesses (OEB).

The third pillar is dedicated to enhancing the value provided to CITEA members.

• Improving Member Relationships: Activities include inviting members to staff committees, conducting surveys to collect issues, and organizing frequent meetings.

• Providing Value-Added Services: This involves organizing online presentations, the CITEA Digital Cyprus Conference, and various events.

• Business Development Assistance: Collaborating with Trade Services and organizing missions are part of this focus.

• Startups & R&D Opportunities: Collaborating with the Research and Innovation Foundation (RIF) and the Chief Scientist, and organizing events are planned actions.

The fourth pillar is centered on financial improvement.

• Acquiring New Members: Approaching ICT companies in Cyprus to become CITEA members is a key strategy.

• Diversifying Revenue Streams: This includes engaging in European projects, organizing events, securing sponsorships, and providing paid services.

The final pillar addresses the broader goal of contributing to technology development and adoption.

• Enhancing Digital Skills: Collaborating with stakeholders and the Ministry of Education for skill-building is a significant step.

• Women in Tech: Collaborating with various ministries for awareness and promotional events, and showcasing successful women in tech.

• Cybersecurity Awareness: Collaborating with state stakeholders and OEB for awareness events and developing funding schemes.

• Digital Government and Enterprises: Working with various stakeholders on digital government strategies and collaborating with the Research, Innovation & Digital Policy Deputy Ministry, the Ministry of Commerce, and OEB for digital enterprise development.

CITEA was founded in 1987 and aims to play a decisive role in the balanced development of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) in the Cypriot economy, acting as a vehicle for change in the development of the information society.

The Association is the representative body of ICT companies on the island and currently counts over 80 member companies covering all sectors of ICT.