Cyprus Seeds is making significant strides in research commercialisation, as highlighted in a recent update on six teams supported by its innovation grant programme. This programme, now in its fourth cycle since launching in February 2025, aims to propel scientific research from the island into the marketplace.
Research commercialisation: Progress Update on Supported Teams
In the period from July to September, teams backed by Cyprus Seeds have reached crucial milestones, showcasing their commitment to bringing their technologies to market. The announcement from Cyprus Seeds outlined how several teams have successfully secured intellectual property, validated their respective technologies, and attracted substantial funding opportunities.
Innovative Developments in Medical Imaging
The M3Phantom team, which is focused on advancements in medical imaging, has appointed a new Champion to oversee the research and development of their Phantom technology. This individual will collaborate closely with the Principal Investigator (PI) to finalise modifications and file a patent by the end of the year. The PI remarked on the importance of this new patent, citing the historical lack of a commercialisation culture in Cyprus, a scenario that is evolving thanks to local initiatives and the establishment of the Research and Innovation Foundation’s Central Knowledge Transfer Office.
Validation of Drone Technology
Another notable project is the RustAlertSystem team, which is currently validating its drone- and camera-based solution, along with proprietary software, on bridges and an abandoned building in Limassol. This testing phase demonstrates the technical viability of their project under real conditions. The team expects UK patent certification soon, while their PCT application is progressing. Additionally, they have garnered interest from EDF, Europe’s largest utility, which is considering collaboration pending patent approval. Being shortlisted as one of the top 10 teams out of 250 in the ConceptionX Cohort 8, they will pitch at the November Demo Day in London, highlighting their dedication even with the Champion on maternity leave.
Aiming for Significant Grant Funding
The Prognostic team is preparing to submit a €3 million grant application to the European Innovation Council (EIC), a prestigious European Union programme that supports breakthrough innovations. This team has a strong chance of success, as their Principal Investigator, Triantafyllos, is already a recipient of a European Research Council (ERC) grant, which is a mark of global research excellence. With support from Cyprus Seeds and ConceptionX mentors, they are optimising their application, which is due in mid-September, with results anticipated in approximately four months. Securing this grant would be one of the most significant achievements in research commercialisation by a Cypriot team, significantly accelerating their project’s progress.
Investment Readiness for Startups
The Cat-Brain team is progressing towards becoming an investment-ready startup. They are under consideration by ConceptionX to pitch for €40,000 to a group of Syndicate Angels in London, representing a critical step in securing early-stage funding. Their plans include formally establishing the company in February 2026, with Nicole Christodoulides as CEO and Ioulia Solomou as CTO, while their Principal Investigator will serve as an advisor. This team has also gained international recognition, having been nominated as The Most Innovative Solution in Inclusion & Empowerment and moving forward in the World Summit Awards 2025.
Seeking Additional Funding and User Feedback
Meanwhile, the PrognomiR and Nanocure teams are actively pursuing additional funding through EU programmes and pharmaceutical partnerships to support their clinical trials. They have also begun outreach to potential users and customers to gather valuable feedback on their technologies, which is crucial for their development.
Facilitating Access to Opportunities
The announcement concluded by emphasising that Cyprus Seeds and ConceptionX are committed to facilitating access to opportunities for these teams, complemented by strategic guidance from assigned mentors. This approach not only strengthens the teams’ capabilities but also enhances their chances of successful research commercialisation.
