Oev and TechIsland to sign cooperation memorandum on technology and innovation

Nicosia, Cyprus. The Employers and Industrialists Federation (Oev) and TechIsland will sign a memorandum of cooperation on September 18, 2026, aimed at strengthening collaboration on technology, innovation, entrepreneurship, skills development and the competitiveness of the Cyprus economy.

The signing ceremony is scheduled for 10.30am on Friday, with Oev president George Pantelides and TechIsland president Valentinos Polykarpou expected to make statements afterwards.

Cooperation agreement

The memorandum is intended to strengthen cooperation between the two organisations in technology, innovation, entrepreneurship and skills development, while supporting the competitiveness of the wider economy.

The agreement comes as the technology sector expands its involvement in initiatives beyond its traditional economic role, including projects focused on social and community issues.

Wildfire initiative

TechIsland announced its €2 million Wildfire Initiative during the summer, following the devastating fires of 2025. The programme developed from an emergency appeal into a longer-term effort covering prevention, preparedness, early detection and recovery.

More than 60 companies and individuals responded to TechIsland’s appeal within days of the fires, raising approximately €2 million to support affected residents and communities.

According to figures presented by TechIsland, the fires burned more than 100 square kilometres of forest, destroyed 191 homes across 15 villages and claimed two lives.

The initiative later expanded beyond immediate assistance, bringing together the private sector, government, scientists, local authorities and volunteers to strengthen Cyprus’ ability to prevent and respond to wildfires.

“The TechIsland Wildfire Initiative is an example of what can be achieved when we join forces,” Polykarpou said.

“What started as an immediate response at a critical moment has evolved into a long-term programme with practical solutions and meaningful impact,” he added.