RIF: In the pulse of innovation, the “The Bash! 2024”
Networking opportunity for the local innovation ecosystem stakeholders, in the presence of the Deputy Minister of Research, Innovation and Digital Policy.
For the 4th consecutive year, the Research and Innovation Foundation’s (RIF) event “The Bash! The Startup and Innovation Community Networking Event” took place on Thursday, July 11th in Nicosia.
More than 70 representatives of the Cyprus Research and Innovation ecosystem, startups, investors and business organisations had a unique opportunity to network and collaborate, exchange ideas, views and experiences in order to create a basis for new ventures. Participants took advantage of the relaxed and welcoming atmosphere of the event to engage in discussions with potential partners for possible collaborations.
The event was honoured by the presence of the Deputy Minister of Research, Innovation and Digital Policy, Dr Nicodemos Damianou, who had the opportunity to meet the innovative business community of the country and to be informed about the actions implemented by the RIF to support it.
In his welcome, Dr. Damianou mentioned that: ” The latest EIS results are in, and once again they are a testament to the remarkable growth of the Cyprus startup and innovation ecosystem. Being ranked as a Strong Innovator for the third year in a row shows we are on the right track. However, to maintain and build on this momentum, we need to deep dive into the development areas identified in the report, put forward targeted measures and offer the right tools and funding opportunities to drive improvements. We also need all of you on board – this ecosystem is our key partner in this journey”.
The Chief Scientist for Research, Innovation and Technology, Mr. Demetris Skourides, during his welcoming remarks, he advised those present to: ” Cyprus’ success in being ranked for the third consecutive year as a ‘Strong Innovator’ in the European Innovation Scoreboard demonstrates the potential of our ecosystem. Think Big, Aim High, Learn from Failure, Focus on commercialization and scale, Together we can achieve more!”.
From his role, the Director General of the Research and Innovation Foundation, Mr Theodoros Loukaidis, underlined the RIF’s key objective to support innovative and start-up businesses, which is achieved through the rich portfolio of funding programmes and services it offers. He addressed the business community saying: “Make use of the financial tools, services, and networking activities provided by the RIF! Our team is here for you, and we strive to provide you with tools to help you succeed.”.
“The Bash” event is organised within the framework of the RIF’s Innovation Factory initiative, as well as the activities of the National Enterprise Europe Network Cyprus.