The Cyprus Institute successfully completed its first Innovation Bootcamp, a dynamic three-day event that brought together aspiring entrepreneurs, and change-makers. Under the EIT HEI Initiative project TREATY, this bootcamp empowered participants to think differently, push boundaries, and create breakthrough solutions.

 

In a world marked by rapid transformation, innovation isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. Whether you’re disrupting industries, solving local challenges, or reimagining everyday processes, innovation drives progress. It’s about challenging norms, embracing failure as a stepping stone, and turning “what if” into “why not.”

 

On June 17^th-18^th, hands-on workshops took place at NOUS Hub Strovolos. Participants engaged in interactive sessions, brainstorming, ideation, and design. From theoretical concepts to practical skills, attendees gained tools to fuel creativity and propel their ideas forward. Key sessions included:

• Leah Speser: Navigating the transition from research to company formation.
• Celia Hadjichristodoulou: Cultivating an entrepreneurial mindset.
• Emilia Orphanidou: Developing effective marketing strategies for startups.
• Demetris Photiou: Embracing a design thinking mindset.
• Panagiotis Moiras: Enhancing communication and pitching skills.
• Fabio Maria Montagnino: Strategic approaches to startup creation.
• Charalambos Spanos: The importance of participatory processes and unlearning.
• Konstantinos Kleovoulou: Financing options for startups.

During the Pitching Session on June 21^st, participants put their ideas to the test, pitching to experts. Seven ideas were presented to the judges and the best idea won a trip to Joist Innovation Park in Larissa. The winner was Vasilis Joseph with his innovative concept for Freya Labs.

 

The Innovation Bootcamp was developed and led by members of the Innovation and Development Directorate and the Graduate School of The Cyprus Institute. We extend our gratitude to all the trainers for sharing their knowledge and expertise with the participants. Special thanks to the Research and Innovation Foundation (RIF) for their support, as well as to Mrs. Maria Markidou Georgiadou and the Cyprus Seeds for their continuous assistance.

 

The Cyprus Institute’s Innovation Bootcamp not only fostered creativity and collaboration, but also equipped participants with the skills and knowledge needed to drive innovation in their respective fields. We look forward to future editions and continued success in nurturing the next generation of innovators.