Cyprus’ startup community will convene in Nicosia on December 16, 2023, for an engaging event centred on exits, titled From Zero. This gathering aims to shed light on the journey of growing, exiting, and rebuilding a company, supporting founders as they navigate the complexities of startup life.
A Platform for Founders and Innovators
From Zero serves as a dynamic event series that brings together a diverse range of participants, including founders, technologists, creatives, and aspiring entrepreneurs. The initiative seeks to create an open environment where the often unfiltered realities of startup life can be discussed candidly.
Exploring the Exit Journey
The upcoming session marks the second in the series, following an earlier discussion focused on resilience in startups. This time, the conversation will delve into the complete journey of an exit, covering critical aspects such as strategy, timing, and the myriad challenges—both emotional and operational—that entrepreneurs face before, during, and after a sale.
Insights from Successful Cypriot Founders
Three prominent Cypriot founders will share their personal stories and insights during the event. Each has successfully exited their companies, offering valuable lessons from their experiences.
- Demetrios Zoppos, Co-Founder and Partner at 33East VC, will discuss his dual role as an entrepreneur and investor. Having built and sold multiple ventures, including GF-X, onefinestay, and Klevio, Zoppos has also supported over 25 startups as an angel investor. His fund, 33East, is on a mission to transform Cyprus into a hub of innovation, providing essential resources like capital and mentorship to ambitious founders.
- Stephanos Stephanov, Co-Founder and COO of 2050 Materials, will reflect on his company’s journey to simplify sustainability in the built environment. He will share insights from the firm’s growth over five years, culminating in its acquisition by Once For All Group in November 2025. His discussion will highlight the significance of data platforms in fostering climate-focused design.
- Nicholas Andreou, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Locum’s Nest, will narrate his transition from a medical career to entrepreneurship. His health-tech platform, designed to connect NHS hospitals with clinicians, has emerged as one of the UK’s most trusted digital solutions. Andreou will share his experiences leading to the platform’s acquisition by Aya Healthcare in June 2025.
Moderated Fireside Chat and Networking Opportunities
The fireside chat will be moderated by Michael Hadjijoseph, Co-Founder of Stagedoor, which was acquired by Trafalgar Entertainment in November 2022. The event promises to provide a rich learning experience, combining personal narratives with practical advice.
Scheduled from 18:30 to 21:30, the evening will begin with a gathering and drinks, followed by the fireside discussion and a Q&A session. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with the speakers and network over drinks and bites.
Support from the Community
The event has garnered support from various sponsors, each committed to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in Cyprus:
- Pale Blue, a software engineering firm, focuses on delivering tailored software solutions while also realising its own innovative concepts.
- QBeat Academy is dedicated to empowering professionals through expert-led technology education, aimed at accelerating careers and promoting innovation.
- Google Developer Group Cyprus operates as an independent community, hosting tech talks, workshops, and networking events, while producing the Hack Cyprus Podcast.
- Pink Loopa, a creative media production company, aims to create high-impact content for events, ensuring that each project is both modern and memorable.
A Unique Opportunity for Learning
From Zero stands out as a unique opportunity for attendees to gain first-hand knowledge of the exit process from those who have successfully navigated it. Organisers emphasise the importance of unpacking the honest realities behind startup exits, aiming to equip the next generation of entrepreneurs with the insights necessary to thrive.
As the startup ecosystem in Cyprus continues to evolve, events like From Zero play a crucial role in building a supportive community that fosters growth, innovation, and collaboration among entrepreneurs.
