Bicommunal startup accelerator Startups4Peace (Su4P) has marked its 10th anniversary with a remarkable showcase at Slush 2025, one of the world’s most prestigious startup events held in Helsinki. The event highlighted the innovative spirit of Cypriot entrepreneurs on an international stage.
Photo: cyprus-mail.com
Bicommunal startup: Celebrating a Decade of Collaboration
Founded as Cyprus’ only bicommunal startup accelerator, Startups4Peace aims to foster cooperation between Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot entrepreneurs. Co-funded by the European Union and the Embassy of Finland in Cyprus, the initiative operates under the Eunite Programme, which supports the Turkish Cypriot community.
Empowering New Ventures
As part of this year’s celebrations, Su4P opened applications for ten teams to participate in its intensive programme. Selected from a pool of applicants, these teams engaged in two full days of rigorous bootcamps that provided targeted training and mentorship to refine their business ideas.
Between these bootcamps, the teams received further guidance through mentoring sessions, aimed at solidifying their business models and enhancing their strategies. The culmination of this training was a pitching battle, where an expert jury evaluated the participants, leading to the selection of three standout teams to represent Su4P at Slush 2025.
Innovative Solutions to Real Problems
This year’s winning teams showcased remarkable creativity and commitment to community collaboration. The three selected teams are:
- Microcheck: A cross-communal digital health platform that offers early-warning alerts and resistance mapping against antibiotic resistance. It provides accessible microbiological testing and personalised feedback.
- Pit-to-Table: A company that converts discarded olive pits into sustainable construction panels, aiming to reduce organic waste and carbon emissions while supporting local farmers.
- SENSSOS: An innovative solution that introduces an AI-powered wearable device designed to help musicians, athletes, and high-performance professionals prevent musculoskeletal injuries and improve posture through real-time biofeedback.
The teams’ efforts were rewarded, with the first-placed team receiving €10,000 in seed funding, while the second and third-placed teams each received €5,000 to help further develop their ventures.
Networking and Growth at Slush 2025
During their time in Helsinki, the teams were immersed in Finland’s dynamic entrepreneurial ecosystem. They had the opportunity to network with global investors, attend inspiring presentations, and engage in one-on-one meetings at Slush. This experience not only broadened their professional networks but also reinforced the bicommunal spirit central to the Su4P mission.
Reflecting on a Successful Decade
Su4P’s 10-year journey has been marked by a steadfast commitment to innovation and cooperation. As the initiative reflects on its achievements, the team behind Su4P emphasised its role in fostering collaboration between Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot entrepreneurs. “For the past decade, Su4P has been an encouragement of innovation and cooperation, bringing together communities to build a shared future,” they stated.
The programme’s anniversary serves as a testament to its enduring success and the increasing impact it has had on Cyprus’ startup ecosystem. By participating in Slush, Su4P once again highlighted the entrepreneurial talent emerging from Cyprus, bridging communities, inspiring innovation, and celebrating a decade of significant contributions.
Looking Ahead
As the bicommunal startup accelerator continues on its path, the focus remains on nurturing innovative ideas that have the potential to transform the region. With a solid foundation built over the past ten years, the future of Startups4Peace looks promising as it aims to further develop the startup landscape in Cyprus.
