Cyprus delegation makes a strong showing at Slush 2025, marking its fourth consecutive year at the event with a robust national representation. This year, Slush has gathered over 13,000 founders, investors, and operators from more than 100 countries, all buzzing with innovation and deal-making at the Messukeskus in Helsinki.
Photo: cyprus-mail.com
- This informal support often leads to new connections and helps build trust with external partners, which can be invaluable for startups.
- With one more day to go, Cyprus is positioned firmly on the global startup and innovation map at Slush 2025, showcasing its potential and the promise of its entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Cyprus delegation: A Thriving Atmosphere on Day One
As attendees enter the venue, the atmosphere is electric. With dimmed lights and vibrant stages, the excitement is palpable. The queues for startup booths, investor lounges, and side events are swift, highlighting the intense pace of networking and collaboration. The event serves as a testament to Europe’s burgeoning status as a hub for startups and investment.
Photo: cyprus-mail.com
Cyprus’ Strong Representation
In the midst of this dynamic environment, the Cyprus delegation, led by the Research and Innovation Foundation (RIF), stands out. Comprising 14 startups, the delegation is actively engaged in sectors such as AI, health tech, sustainability, and digital platforms, showcasing the depth of Cyprus’ innovation ecosystem.
Focused Networking and Deal-Making
The first day of Slush is characterised by a focus on strategic networking rather than aimless wandering. Meetings are pre-arranged, and even casual conversations are likely to lead to further discussions. The Cyprus booth remains busy from start to finish, with attendees conducting continuous demonstrations and holding one-on-one meetings with potential investors and partners.
By the end of the day, the delegation has successfully secured over 40 meetings with various investors and strategic partners, a significant achievement for early-stage founders looking to make their mark.
Spotlight on Innovative Startups
Among the standout participants are Algamol and Rinnoco, both part of the RIF delegation. Algamol is focused on advanced algae production, developing a modular photobioreactor platform aimed at applications ranging from sustainable fuels to aquaculture and protein production, with plans for AI-enabled optimisation in the future.
Rinnoco, on the other hand, is making strides in data compression for big data and AI workloads. Its PLATCOM technology employs machine learning to select the best compression method for various data types, significantly enhancing storage efficiency beyond conventional solutions.
Competing on the Global Deep-Tech Stage
Rinnoco also takes a step into the limelight by participating in the Global Deep Tech Battle at Slush 2025, pitching at the SwissTech Pavilion. This competition highlights deep-tech startups from sectors like cleantech, AI, and health tech, with an international jury assessing the pitches. For Rinnoco, being featured alongside Europe’s top deep-tech teams not only enhances its visibility but also showcases Cyprus’ capacity to nurture competitive, hard-tech companies.
Leadership and Strategic Vision
The RIF’s Director General, Theodoros Loukaidis, is proactive in promoting Cyprus’ narrative beyond the booth. On 18 November, he presents “Cyprus: Europe’s Innovation Gateway” at the AAlchemy Ventures side event, where he discusses how the RIF supports startups, tech firms, and SMEs with various funding instruments and services, facilitating their expansion into the broader European market.
This session attracts founders, community builders, and media, leading to discussions that encompass practical steps towards acceleration, EU funding opportunities, and strategies for international growth. The networking that ensues further connects Cypriot teams with European players, reinforcing Cyprus’ emerging role in the tech landscape.
A Community Hub at the Cyprus Booth
The RIF booth has evolved into more than just a national stand; it serves as a community hub where former members of the Research and Innovation Foundation reconnect with the delegation. The atmosphere is both relaxed and purposeful, fostering an environment where old colleagues introduce founders to their networks, share insights on the ecosystem’s progress, and discuss future opportunities.
This informal support often leads to new connections and helps build trust with external partners, which can be invaluable for startups.
Voices from the Frontlines
Throughout the day, the Cyprus Mail captures testimonials from various startups within the delegation, including NanoMicron, Rinnoco, Algamol, MentorMatic, and ISDI. These interviews reveal the significance of Slush and RIF’s support for each team, underscoring the importance of these opportunities for their growth and visibility.
Day One Outcomes and Looking Ahead
The official Slush programme spans just two days, yet for the Cypriot delegation, the first day already yields substantial outcomes. The RIF’s startup mission demonstrates a maturing national ecosystem with activities spanning numerous technologies and industries, including AI, deep tech, medtech, and sustainable materials. Many participating teams have benefitted from RIF’s pre-seed, seed, and scale-up support schemes, combining public funding with private investment.
Slush serves as a platform for these startups to test their products and business models in front of global investors, as evidenced by the packed meeting schedules and Rinnoco’s participation in the SwissTech competition. The day concludes with significant traffic at the booth, numerous investor meetings, and enhanced media visibility for Cyprus.
With one more day to go, Cyprus is positioned firmly on the global startup and innovation map at Slush 2025, showcasing its potential and the promise of its entrepreneurial ecosystem.
