Overview
Founded in 1996, the Research Promotion Foundation (RPF) was established at the initiative of the Government of the Republic of Cyprus, to promote the development of scientific and technological research in Cyprus due to the fundamental importance of research in contemporary societies. During the first years of its operation RPF developed competitive and transparent procedures for the support of quality research projects. Through these initiatives RPF became established as the national institution for the promotion of scientific and technological research in Cyprus. During the aforementioned period RPF organised annual programmes for financing research in Cyprus.
The main objectives of the Foundation's Framework Programme for Research and Technological Development (2003-2005) are:
- Improvement of competitiveness
- Support for new advanced technologies
- Quality of Life
- Development of cost-effective products, processes and services.
In June 2003 there was a big change in relation to RPF’s research grant programs. More specifically, RPF launched the first Framework Programmes (DESMH) in Cyprus that covered the period 2003-2005
DESMH was expected to promote the strategic objectives of the Foundation, while providing, more choices in Cypriot research community and offering a fixed three-year programme with various Call deadlines.