Visionary founders put Cyprus on the global innovation map

The Research and Innovation Foundation (RIF) led a robust Cypriot delegation of 14 startups to Slush 2025, an annual founder-focused startup event held in Helsinki.

The foundation said that this helped to showcase “the dynamic potential of the island’s local research and innovation (R&I) ecosystem”.

The event drew more than 13,000 attendees, including 3,500 investors and 6,000 startup founders from around the world, offering a unique platform for networking and promoting innovative ideas.

The Cypriot delegation consisted of RIF executives and representatives from the 14 startups that have been funded or supported by the Foundation’s programmes.

These included Sim4Flow, Movingdoors, Wedding Aliens, Mentormatic, Appreci, Mamatech, Rinnoco, MetaForge Labs, Nanomicron, S.E. Compass Medical, Algamol, GENIONS BIOLAB, ISDI and Vycto.

Company representatives had the opportunity to present their work and the groundbreaking solutions they offer in fields such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, medical technology, digital innovation, and sustainable development.

During meetings and contacts at the event, members of the Cypriot mission highlighted the strength of the local R&I ecosystem, promoting Cyprus as an emerging technology hub in the wider region of southeastern Europe.

“Cyprus is now home to a new generation of visionary founders who prove that innovation knows no borders,” said RIF General Director Theodoros Loukaidis.

“Through the RIF’s landmark programmes, we enable Cypriot startups to be strengthened, to attract private investment and to develop internationally,” he added.

“Our presence at SLUSH 2025 highlights the ecosystem’s momentum, as well as Cyprus’ willingness to actively participate in the global wave of technological progress,” Loukaidis stated.

“Participation in Slush is part of the RIF’s actions to foster international networking, attract investment, and enhance the outward orientation of Cypriot businesses,” the foundation explained.

It added that this can help “provide these startups with access to global markets, partnerships, and investment opportunities”.