New UNDP programme supports youth to develop tech-based innovations

Young individuals in Cyprus now have the opportunity to be awarded €25,000 as seed-funding to help turn their tech-based idea into reality, through a new UNDP programme.

“The United Nations Development Programme Cyprus (UNDP), in a project implemented by SocialTech Lab, inaugurates the Youth Innovation Factory (YIF), an endeavour poised to revolutionise the landscape of youth-led innovation,” a press release said.

Set to launch in late September, it said YIF is “designed as an extensive venture building endeavour” and its aim is to expedite the progress and release of technology-based innovations originated by young individuals in Cyprus, aged 18 to 35.

“The first cohort will guide selected teams through a transformative 3-month experience, facilitating the conversion of novel concepts into potent and expandable innovations centred around the themes of Environment and Social Cohesion, closely aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).”

The teams that are selected to enter the Factory will get to validate their ideas and build their Minimum Viable Product (MVP), all while developing their personal potential with hands-on training, mentorship, and networking with various stakeholders from civil society and industry. Additionally, all participating teams will receive free co-working with access to a shared working space, podcasting studio, conference room, and free drinks/snacks.

At the end of the programme, teams that have successfully completed the programme and all its deliverables will pitch their solutions to a high-level jury panel and have the chance to be awarded €25,000 as seed funding to help turn their idea into reality.

Prospective participants are invited to submit their applications until Sunday, 24 September, at 23:59.

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