Cyprus cabinet approves new funding model for research organizations

On Wednesday, the Cyprus Council of Ministers approved a new performance-based funding mechanism for publicly funded research organizations. Announced by Deputy Minister of Research, Innovation and Digital Policy Nicodemos Damianou, the framework will take effect at the beginning of 2027. Initially, the system will apply to Centers of Excellence co-funded by state and European resources via the Horizon Europe Teaming for Excellence program. Research centers will be evaluated based on 18 specific performance indicators categorized into six themes: research environment, international dimension, scientific excellence, research performance, knowledge transfer, and socio-economic impact. Organizational performance will undergo annual reviews, while funding agreements will be subject to renewal every three years. The goal of this policy is to ensure the long-term sustainability of research infrastructure and expertise developed in recent years.