Cyprus Institute bridges gap between research and industry

In a groundbreaking initiative, the Cyprus Institute successfully organised its first networking seminar, titled “Innovation Workshop and Speed Networking Event,” aimed at bridging the gap between research and industry in Cyprus.

The event, which took place on June 9, was held in collaboration with the Cyprus Association of Research and Innovation Companies (CARIE), and received great acclaim as it brought together academic and research personnel from the institute with Cypriot businesses engaged in applied research and innovation.

According to an official announcement released on Tuesday, the primary objective of the seminar, the first in a series of events, was to foster collaboration and explore partnership opportunities between the local research community and local enterprises operating in the field of applied research and innovation.

The ultimate goal was to address the existing gap between the research and industry sectors in Cyprus, paving the way for a mutually beneficial relationship that enhances the country’s competitiveness.

Under the auspices of Deputy Minister of Research, Innovation, and Digital Policy Philippos Hadjizacharias, the event showcased the commitment of the government to support the synergy between academia and the business world.

Leading organisations, including the European research programme EUROCC2, the programme “EMME-CARE,” and the European network “DiGINN Hub,” lent their support to the seminar, underscoring the significance of this collaboration for Cyprus’ scientific and technological advancements.

In addition, the Cyprus Institute’s initiative revolves around the creation of partnerships focused on knowledge and technology transfer from academia to industry.

By facilitating this transfer, the institute aims to bolster the development of innovative products and services that contribute to the overall competitiveness of Cyprus’ entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Additionally, the seminars are designed to facilitate the country’s smooth transition into the digital age and transform its economy into a knowledge-based one.

During the seminar, directors from the institutes’ research centres delivered insightful presentations on their respective areas of expertise.

Furthermore, attendees were introduced to the European network “DiGINN Hub,” which is spearheaded by the Cyprus Institute, showcasing the organisation’s influential role in promoting research and innovation collaborations at the international level.

The highlight of the event was the “Speed Networking Session,” where representatives from CARIE member companies and CyI’s academic staff had the opportunity to engage in productive one-on-one interactions.

The session facilitated meaningful exchanges and forged connections, opening doors for potential joint ventures and research collaborations between academia and industry.

To provide a comprehensive overview, a guided tour of the institute’s state-of-the-art laboratories and research facilities took place, allowing participants to witness firsthand the cutting-edge work being conducted by the Institute.

Distinguished figures in attendance included professor and Cyprus Institute president Stavros Malas, President of CARIE Tasos Kounousis, and Marios Tsiakkis, the secretary general of the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Keve).

Their presence and support further emphasised the significance of this collaborative effort between academia and industry.