The European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) has launched a new hub to boost the Cypriot innovation  ecosystem.

A press release from Nicosia Municipality said that by connecting regional actors, innovators, and partners to Europe’s largest innovation ecosystem, the new EIT Community RIS Hub will strengthen cooperation among leading business, education and research organisations, and serve as a one-stop shop for local talents and entrepreneurs to benefit from the EIT Community’s opportunities in the field of education, business creation and innovation.

The new hub is part of the EIT Regional Innovation Scheme (EIT RIS) programme designed to tackle Europe’s persistent geographic innovation divide. The aim of the hub is to strengthen cooperation among leading business, education and research organisations while increasing the region’s competitiveness and contributing to sustainable economic growth.

The EIT CRH Cyprus will represent all the EIT Knowledge and Innovation Communities (KICs) and will act as a bridge for Cypriot innovators, linking them with information on the wide range of services and funding opportunities provided by the EIT Community in all RIS eligible countries and regions. Additionally, it will spearhead the EIT Community’s engagement with local authorities, including providing policy support and expertise as required. The launch of Cyprus’ hub aims to provide the EIT Community with a strengthened on-the-ground presence across Central, Eastern and Southern Europe.

Situated in the heart of the old city of Nicosia, the EIT Community RIS Hub will collaborate closely with the Nicosia Municipality and CYENS Centre of Excellence, and will have an active role in establishing the Innovation and Entrepreneurship quarters. 

Leading the hub is Dr. Styliani Petroudi, who will be stationed at the newly renovated CYENS Centre of Excellence premises, situated in the historical urban center of Nicosia within the old municipal market building. In her capacity as the EIT Community Officer, Dr. Petroudi will promote EIT initiatives within Cyprus, serving as a link between the EIT KICs and national innovation communities. She will organise activities to engage local stakeholders and facilitate partnerships aligning Cyprus' innovation agenda with the strategic objectives of the EIT.