RIF becomes member of the Europe Startup Nations Alliance

The Cyprus Research and Innovation Foundation (RIF) has become a member of the Europe Startup Nations Alliance (ESNA), which now represents half of the total signatory countries.

“We are delighted to join the Europe Startup Nations Alliance, the Startup Nation Standards implementation vehicle aiming to harness innovation for economic and social impact in the member states and across the EU, as the national member for Cyprus,” said Stavriana Kofteros, the Vice President of RIF. “Together we can contribute in transforming Europe and indeed Cyprus into a true startup nation where startups can seize global opportunities, grow, and scaleup in the region and beyond.”

The Research and Innovation Foundation (RIF) is the execution arm of the national R&I policies and the national funding agency for research, technological development and innovation in Cyprus.

Aiming to create a dynamic and competitive ecosystem, strengthen extroversion and facilitate internationalisation, RIF provides targeted R&I investments and funding instruments as well as value-add knowledge transfer, capacity building and innovation services targeting startups, and the entire national R&I ecosystem. “Our vision is to maximise our country’s innovation capabilities as a Strong Innovator (EIS) with an exponential positive impact to the growth of the national economy and the prosperity of our society,” said RIF.

RIF joined another five entities as ESNA’s newest members: Luxinnovation (Luxemburg); Germany Trade & Invest (GTAI) (Germany); Innovation Agency (Lithuania); The Startup Poland Foundation (Poland); Elevate Greece (Greece)

“Each new member brings with them unique perspectives, experiences, and expertise that will enrich the collaborative efforts of ESNA,” the Alliance said. “With half of the signatory nations now actively involved, a diverse range of viewpoints and interests will be brought to the table, promoting more inclusive decision-making, and enhancing the organisation’s ability to address global challenges effectively.”

It concluded, “ESNA expresses its sincere gratitude for the commitment demonstrated by these nations that underscore the shared vision of international cooperation and dedication to work collaboratively towards improving the startup ecosystem in Europe”.