Cyprus Seeds has embarked on an exciting partnership with Conception X, a leading programme in the UK focused on deep-tech entrepreneurship. This collaboration marks a significant step in Cyprus Seeds’ mission to close the gap between academic research and commercialisation, while also enhancing opportunities for researchers in Cyprus to establish deep-tech ventures.
Deep-tech entrepreneurship: Empowering Researchers through Training
Under the agreement, selected teams from universities and Centres of Excellence across Cyprus will engage in Conception X’s specialised training and mentorship initiatives. This initiative aims to equip these teams with essential entrepreneurial skills and guidance, enabling them to bring their innovative ideas to market.
Strengthening Innovation in Cyprus
Cyprus Seeds expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, highlighting that it strengthens their existing support structure, which includes funding, mentoring, and networking opportunities. This collaboration is expected to empower academic teams to transform their groundbreaking ideas into impactful products and services that address global challenges.
A Proven Track Record in Startup Creation
Conception X has a notable reputation for turning researchers into successful startup founders. Operating as a not-for-profit, it runs Europe’s largest cross-university deep-tech venture programme for PhD students. Since its inception in 2018, Conception X has recruited eight cohorts from over 70 universities across 11 countries, resulting in the formation of more than 170 deep-tech companies.
Success Stories and Valued Portfolio
Among its successes, Conception X has recorded two notable exits: Rahko, a quantum drug discovery company, and Kapacity.io, an energy optimisation startup, with a third exit announcement anticipated soon. The portfolio of Conception X, which features startups engaged in a diverse range of projects from cancer vaccines to carbon-absorbing building materials, is now valued at over £500 million.
Aligning Goals for Research and Innovation
Cyprus Seeds highlighted that Conception X’s involvement significantly supports its objective of fostering research-led innovation and deep-tech entrepreneurship within Cyprus. By leveraging Conception X’s expertise, this collaboration is poised to create further opportunities for advanced research to flourish within the local ecosystem, leading to tangible real-world solutions.
Comprehensive Support for Cypriot Innovation
Founded with the vision of commercialising innovative academic research, Cyprus Seeds runs an 18-month Innovation Grant Programme, providing grants, mentoring, training, and connections to investors both locally and internationally. The organisation is also a partner in two flagship initiatives backed by the European Commission and the Cyprus government: the PHAETHON Teaming Project and DiGiNN.
Recognitions and Network Expansion
Cyprus Seeds has garnered numerous national and international accolades, recently being ranked by the Financial Times in 2025 as one of Europe’s Leading Start-up Hubs. The organisation boasts an impressive network of partners across the USA and Europe, collaborating with entities such as The Hellenic Initiative, The MIT Deshpande Centre for Technology Innovation, and the egg accelerator, among others.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Deep-Tech in Cyprus
With this new partnership, Cyprus Seeds aims to enhance the innovation landscape in Cyprus, paving the way for a more research-driven entrepreneurial ecosystem. The collaboration with Conception X is seen as a crucial step towards achieving this vision, fostering an environment where cutting-edge research can thrive and translate into viable business ventures.
