Strategy

  1. Research and Innovation Strategy 2024-2026

In December 2023, the Council of Ministers approved the Research and Innovation Strategy 2024-2026, which reflects the commitment of the Government of the Republic of Cyprus to promote and exploit research and innovation as pillars of sustainable development that contribute to the modernisation, attractiveness and competitiveness of the country.

The document has been published on the Deputy Ministry of Research, Innovation and Digital Policy website and can be accessed here (in Greek).

  1. Smart Specialisation Strategy 2023-2030

Following instructions from the Deputy Ministry of Research, Innovation and Digital Policy of the Republic of Cyprus, the Cyprus Research and Innovation Foundation (RIF) commissioned the Technopolis group to carry out a study to update the Smart Specialisation Strategy for Cyprus (S3CY). The study took into account (a) the conclusions of a previous study by the Technopolis group regarding the mid-term evaluation of the “RESTART 2016-2020” Programmes and Cyprus’ participation in the EU Framework Programme for R&I for the period 2014-2020 “Horizon 2020”, (b) horizontal and sectoral policies as well as initiatives and programmes, at national and European level and (c) the potential, needs and challenges of the Cyprus R&I ecosystem. In addition, views were collected, through the completion of a questionnaire, from institutions and companies participating in RESTART 2016-2020 and Horizon 2020 research projects.

For Calls for Proposals of the “RESTART 2016-2020” Programmes that will be announced after the 30th March 2023, day of approval of the updated Smart Specialisation Strategy by the Council of Ministers, the updated Priority Sectors and focus areas will apply (where required).

The Priority Sectors that have been identified through the S3Cy for the 2023-2030 period are divided into 4 categories, as follows:

  • Technological priority areas: include Digital Technologies and Advanced (Innovative) Materials
  • Ecosystems: include the sectors of Agrifood, Renewable Energy, Maritime and Shipping
  • Emerging ecosystems: currently include only the Space sector
  • Enablers: include Health and the Environment