RIF knowledge transfer office marks three years of growth

The Central Knowledge Transfer Office (CKTO) of Cyprus’ Research and Innovation Foundation recently celebrated its third anniversary of operations. Since its inception, the agency has acted as a primary hub for facilitating the commercialization of local research and enhancing innovation capabilities across the country. The office has successfully managed 137 individual cases and provided specialized training to 13 regional offices. Operating under a hub-and-spoke model, the CKTO supports a network of local entities tasked with managing intellectual property and fostering industry partnerships. To further bolster these efforts, the foundation launched the ENHANCE program, which provides financial support for hiring dedicated staff to manage research exploitation. Funded by the national recovery plan, the CKTO continues to develop new initiatives aimed at strengthening the domestic innovation ecosystem, with additional support measures expected by 2026.

The CKTO serves as a critical infrastructure for bridging the gap between academic research and commercial application, which is essential for Cyprus' long-term economic competitiveness.