The Cyprus Entrepreneurship Competition (CyEC) is a leading initiative hosted by the University of Cyprus, designed to foster innovation, entrepreneurship, and startup growth. Since its inception, CyEC has worked to empower entrepreneurs with the skills, resources, and networks necessary to transform their ideas into impactful ventures. The competition acts as a catalyst for nurturing early-stage startups by offering structured support that goes beyond funding. It provides entrepreneurs with access to experienced mentors, business professionals, and a dynamic peer community. CyEC’s mission is to create a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem that not only benefits participants but also contributes to the broader economy and society by driving innovation and job creation. By combining mentorship, education, and competitive opportunities, the initiative promotes a culture of creativity, problem-solving, and sustainable business practices. The program particularly emphasizes hands-on learning through in-person sessions and direct interaction with industry leaders, ensuring startups gain practical insights into market challenges and opportunities. Through this platform, the University of Cyprus reaffirms its commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and supporting visionary founders who are ready to shape the future. With CyEC, early ventures receive the guidance and exposure required to scale their ideas into successful, market-ready businesses.

The Cyprus Entrepreneurship Competition 2025 introduces the Accelerator Opportunity, a structured program designed specifically for early-stage startups. This accelerator provides participants with a comprehensive framework that includes foundational business courses, strategic mentorship, and competitive pitching opportunities. The program equips startups with essential knowledge on business development, growth strategies, and execution, enabling them to refine their ideas into viable ventures. Teams commit to nine in-person sessions, ensuring at least one representative is present at all times. These sessions cover critical areas of entrepreneurship, from business model development to investor pitching. Beyond formal training, participants benefit from continuous support through mentorship and peer collaboration, gaining insights from experts and connecting with a network of like-minded entrepreneurs. The culmination of the program is a high-stakes pitching event, where teams present their ventures to a panel of judges and potential investors. Multiple prizes are awarded, recognizing top-performing teams from first through tenth place. This structure not only promotes healthy competition but also ensures broader recognition for innovation and creativity. The accelerator extends value beyond cash awards by offering exposure to investors, thereby enhancing funding prospects and long-term growth opportunities for startups seeking to establish themselves in competitive markets.