DiGiNN – the European Digital Innovation Hub of Cyprus invites start‑ups to apply for participation in a series of one‑to‑one pitching and feedback sessions with investors, designed to strengthen investment readiness and support meaningful engagement with the Cypriot investment ecosystem.
DiGiNN is co‑funded by the EU’s Digital Europe Programme and the Deputy Ministry of Research, Innovation and Digital Policy of Cyprus and serves as Cyprus’s national one‑stop‑shop for digital transformation, supporting SMEs through expert coaching, access to advanced technologies, investment guidance, and ecosystem connections.
About the 1:1 Investor Sessions
As part of this initiative, DiGiNN will organise five (5) one‑to‑one sessions between selected start‑ups and investors, scheduled to take place in July 2026.
Unlike traditional pitch competitions or open demo days, these sessions are designed to enable focused, in‑depth interaction, allowing start‑ups to:
- present their venture in a targeted and tailored manner,
- engage in substantive discussion with an investor,
- receive direct feedback and strategic insights, and
- gain a clearer understanding of investor expectations and evaluation criteria.
Each session will last approximately one (1) hour, providing sufficient time for both presentation and dialogue. During each session, at least one DiGiNN representative will be present for coordination purposes but will not have an active role in the discussion between the start‑up and the investor.
The primary objective of these sessions is to enhance the investment readiness of participating companies and support their preparation for future fundraising opportunities.
Who Can Apply
The open call is addressed to start‑ups based in Cyprus that are seeking to strengthen their investment readiness and engagement with investors.
To be considered, applicants must meet all the following requirements:
Participants must meet all the following eligibility requirements:
- Geographic eligibility
The applicant must be a start‑up established in Cyprus, in line with DiGiNN eligibility requirements.
- Stage of development
The company must have at least a validated MVP or prototype, or an existing product/service with early market traction (e.g. pilots, users, customers).
Idea‑only concepts or projects without a defined product or market proposition will not be considered.
For the purposes of this open call, start‑ups refer to early‑stage companies, typically within the first five (5) years of operation, that are developing or validating innovative and scalable products or services.
How the Process Works
- Submission of applications
Interested start‑ups apply through the application form below outlining their business model, stage of development, and investment readiness. - Evaluation and selection
Applications are assessed by the DiGiNN team against pre-defined readiness and alignment criteria to ensure meaningful participation. - Matchmaking
Selected start‑ups are matched with investors based on strategic fit and availability. - Delivery of sessions
Sessions will take place either in person at PwC Cyprus premises in Nicosia or online, subject to investor and participant availability.
Why Participate
By taking part, start‑ups will:
- gain direct exposure to investor perspectives,
- receive actionable feedback beyond surface‑level pitching,
- strengthen their fundraising narrative and strategic positioning, and
- build confidence in engaging with different types of capital providers.
While these sessions are designed to provide feedback and guidance, they do not guarantee investment. If investment discussions do emerge, they are welcome, provided the DiGiNN team is kept informed.
Apply Now
Interested start‑ups are invited to submit their application by the 1st of July.
Participation is limited, and selection will be based on readiness and strategic fit.
