Our History
The most important milestones in the story of the Foundation are:
1994
Following an initiative by the Government of Cyprus, the Research Promotion Foundation (RPF) is established.
1997
The first Program for Research Project Funding in Cyprus is announced, with a budget of CYP 240,000.
1998
Cyprus participates as full member in the EU’s 5th Framework Program.
1999
Cyprus becomes a full member of COST programme.
2000
Special programs for young researchers – “PENEK” Program – as well as programs of cooperation with Greece – Cyprus and Greece bilateral agreement – are announced for the first time.
2002
For the first time in Cyprus, a multi-annual framework program with multiple goals and uniform participation rules is published by the RPF, called “DESMI Programs for Research and Technological Development” – “DESMI RPF 2002-2005” – with a budget of CYP 11,650,000.
2005
The Foundation outlines its first innovation strategy, entitled “Regional Innovation Strategy for Cyprus”.
2008
The program “DESMI for Research, Technological Development and Innovation” of RPF for the period 2008-2010 is announced, with a budget of EUR 120 million, also comprising resources from the EU Structural Funds for the first time.
2013
The Foundation coordinates the drawing up of the Smart Specialization Strategy for Cyprus, which is approved by the Council of Ministers.
2016
The “RESTART 2016-2020” Program is published, with a total budget of EUR 98 million, and the RPF’s electronic platform IRIS is launched.
2018
The Council of Ministers resolves to restructure the Research, Technological Development and Innovation System of Cyprus, which results to the establishment of the National Research and Innovation Council and the appointment of the Chief Scientist.
2019
The Foundation is renamed as Research and Innovation Foundation – RIF.
2020
The Deputy Ministry of Research, Innovation and Digital Policy is established.
