Invitation for a National Secretary for the new information provision center ("EIT Community RIS Hub") to be created in Cyprus by the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT), announced during a conference co-organized by EIT and Research and Innovation Foundation (RIF) on June 14, 2023. At the event, which was successfully held at the Leventios Gallery in Nicosia, representatives of businesses and research/academic institutions had the opportunity to learn about the funding and support tools offered by EIT's Knowledge and Innovation Communities, which aim to find solutions for major social challenges such as climate change and sustainable energy.
During the event, Mr. Marton Herczeg, Head of the Innovation Ecosystem Unit of the EIT, announced the call for tenders for the staffing of the local centers that will operate in Cyprus, Malta, Ukraine and Montenegro. Their mission is to provide information and guidance on the opportunities offered by Knowledge and Innovation Communities, as well as to strengthen synergies between businesses and academic and research organizations. "Cyprus, Malta, Montenegro and Ukraine are just the beginning" pointed out Mr. Herczeg. "Our goal is to create similar centers in a total of 20 European countries, accelerating innovation at a pan-European level and contributing to a more sustainable and competitive future."
The creation of the local centers is part of the EIT's regional program to bridge the innovation gap observed in Europe, while their opening is expected within 2023. According to the General Director of RIF, Mr. Theodoros Loukaidis: "The EIT plays a decisive role in the implementation of the new European Innovation Agenda, since it strengthens the capacity of the participants for innovation, providing solutions to pressing global challenges and cultivating entrepreneurial talent". "In the context of its role as a coordinating body for the participation of Cyprus in the "Horizon Europe" program, the RIF has an important mission to fulfill. To this end, the Foundation offers, through the National Contact Points, a wide range of free services and personalized advisory support on issues such as finding partners and support in the preparation and writing of proposals. Simply put, participants have a close and reliable partner at their side, which significantly enhances their ability to successfully participate in EU research and innovation projects," he said.
