Made In Cyprus | Big biz stories from a tiny island

Everyone talks about networking. Lilly Pavlou thinks half the industry might not survive without the word.In this episode of Made in Cyprus, we sit down with Lilly Pavlou, Executive Director at QUBE Events, to unpack what it actually takes to run global events from a small island - beyond the conference stages and the sponsor decks.From last-minute cancellations and entire delegations failing to show, to the moment she realised events could be a serious global business, Lilly breaks down why running events today means being part business leader, part crisis manager. We talk about the difference between events that build real community and ones that are just expensive networking theatre, and why bigger isn't always better.We explore what it means to build a predominantly female team, whether the industry has become too commercialised, and what actually separates a good event from a great one.This is a conversation about events, but more importantly, about credibility, community, and building something worth people's time.Brought to you by Factory39 and Martin Zarian.

Cyprus wants to be an innovation hub. But are we building the foundation first?In this episode of Made in Cyprus, we sit down with Andreas Panayi, Co-Founder & CEO of Kinisis Ventures, to unpack the real state of the Cyprus startup ecosystem - beyond the LinkedIn theatre and the headlines.From fragmentation and isolated players to the gap between investors, founders and universities, Andreas breaks down what's actually holding the island back. We talk about why the biggest problem isn't funding, but coordination, mindset, and the missing infrastructure underneath it all.We explore what real startup infrastructure looks like, why collaboration and connection are the two pillars that matter most, and whether Cyprus needs to stop trying to do everything and finally specialise.This is a conversation about startups, but more importantly, about ambition, honesty, and building an ecosystem that actually lasts.Brought to you by Factory39 and Martin Zarian.

Souvlaki in Cyprus isn’t just food. It’s identity.In this episode of Made in Cyprus, we sit down with the Chimonides brothers, founders of O Tatas, to unpack how they’re taking one of Cyprus’ most emotional foods and turning it into a scalable, modern business.From building Salt & Fire to launching multiple concepts across different segments, they share what it really takes to operate in one of the most saturated and opinionated markets on the island.We talk about why consistency is the real competitive edge, how pricing in food is often misunderstood, and why most restaurants fail not because of the food… but because of everything around it.We also dive into operations, hiring, branding, and the reality of running multiple concepts - from high-end dining to fast casual.This is a conversation about food, but more importantly, about systems, discipline, and building something that lasts.Brought to you by Factory39 and Martin Zarian.

In this episode of Made in Cyprus, we sit down with Michael Economou, Founder of Exyde and co-founder of Foody, one of Cyprus’ most successful startup stories. From building At Your Service to scaling Foody and navigating a major exit, Michael shares what it really means to be a founder beyond the headlines.We talk about his journey from Foody to Exyde - a marketplace for authentic experiences, and why this new venture is driven by passion, not just problem-solving. We explore the mindset of entrepreneurs, the importance of choosing the right early customers, and why experiences are becoming more valuable than material things.Michael also shares insights on resilience, risk-taking, and why success is simply “a game” for those who love building. Brought to you by Factory39 and Martin Zarian.

Cyprus isn’t just eating more delivery, it’s outsourcing cooking.In this episode of Made in Cyprus, we sit down with Yiannis Hadjiconstantouras, a marketer-turned-serial food entrepreneur behind Marinato, Flipstreet, and Makai, to unpack what it really takes to win in the food business. An industry where margins are tight, competition is brutal, and “good food” is only the entry ticket.We talk about building multi-brand kitchens during COVID, why most new food concepts don’t survive past the first hype wave, and the four numbers Yiannis obsesses over daily (reviews, food cost, staff cost, sales). He also shares why service recovery is a brand superpower, why “ghost kitchens are history,” and what it will take to turn a Cyprus-born operation into a franchised chain.Brought to you by Factory39 and Martin Zarian.

It’s not on tv, it’s not on the radio, and it’s rarely on podcasts, but in reality, it’s everywhere.In this episode of Made in Cyprus, we sit down with Despo Pavlou for a conversation Cyprus still treats like a taboo: LGBTQ+ visibility, rights, and what it actually feels like to grow up believing you’re alone. Despo shares her journey from the Cyprus Diaspora in South Africa, to suppressing her identity for decades, to coming out, rebuilding, and turning trauma into a story that helps others feel seen.We talk family, faith, and why religion and politics should never decide who gets to love who. We also get into her book "My Kind of Normal", why representation matters, and what has to change in Cyprus - from policy, to culture, to the everyday way people speak about "normal".Brought to you by Factory39 and Martin Zarian.

Short-term rentals host new guests every day, but very few people understand the chaos behind getting each property ready, on time, every time.In this episode of Made in Cyprus, we speak with Nicolas Chrysostomou, founder of Piney, a company scaling across Europe by turning short-term rental operations into a tech-driven logistics engine. Nicolas shares the lessons from launching Bolt in Cyprus, surviving COVID when revenue hit zero overnight, and why building from Cyprus is powerful… but can’t be your only test.We get into why Piney isn’t just “a cleaning company,” how the team built the technology first, and what changes when you operate across Athens, Lisbon, Madrid, and Paris, where infrastructure and logistics rewrite the rules.Brought to you by Factory 39 and Martin Zarian.

Cyprus’ startup ecosystem didn’t appear overnight, it was built slowly, event by event, founder by founder, and story by story. Few people have witnessed that journey as closely as Panis Pieri, one of the most familiar faces in the island’s innovation scene.In this episode of Made in Cyprus, we talk about how the ecosystem began, the impact of expat founders, the challenges early-stage startups face, and the need for stronger collaboration between cities. Panis also breaks down why mindset matters, how founders can think global from day one, and what the island must fix, from infrastructure to commercialising university research, to become a true launchpad for innovation.Whether you’re a founder, investor, or simply curious about Cyprus’ potential, this conversation offers a clear view of what the next decade could hold for the island’s startup scene.Brought to you by Factory39 and Martin Zarian.

In this new episode of Made In Cyprus, our guest flips the script on what a Cyprus-based company can do globally.Mike Charalambous, co-founder and CEO of Threedium, to explore how a company born in Limassol is now powering 3D commerce for brands like LVMH, BMW, and L’Oréal.Mike shares the story behind Threedium’s breakthrough technology, how it’s redefining online shopping through interactive 3D and hyper-personalised experiences, and why attention (not clicks) is the new currency for brands. We dive into the challenges of building from Cyprus, the realities of scaling globally, and how to navigate the ever-changing hype cycles of AI, blockchain and the metaverse while staying true to your vision.It’s a conversation about innovation, resilience and how to build something world-class from a small island with big ideas.Brought to you by Factory 39 and Martin Zarian.

Work is changing faster than ever, with new generations, expectations and technology reshaping how and where we work. But what does the future of work really look like, and how can companies avoid falling into the “happiness trap” of flexibility without structure?In this episode of Made in Cyprus, we sit down with Alex Norovyatkin, Head of PR and Brand at Mellow, to explore how organisations can thrive in a world where remote work, freelancers and gig economies are becoming the norm. Alex shares how Mellow is helping businesses hire, contract and pay flexible workforces in over 100 countries, all while navigating the challenges of culture, communication and brand trust.We dive into the cultural shifts brought by Gen Z, the balance between office and remote work, and how AI is shaping the jobs of tomorrow. Alex also reflects on why brand has become non-negotiable for growth and how Mellow is carving out a unique space in the crowded future-of-work landscape.Whether you’re a business leader, an HR professional, or simply curious about what comes next for the way we work, this conversation will challenge assumptions and offer fresh insights.Brought to you by Factory39 and Martin Zarian.

In this episode of Made in Cyprus, we sit down with Sergey Osipov - entrepreneur, designer, and co-founder of global ventures including Wargaming and Placy AI. Sergey shares his journey from Belarus to Cyprus, and how living on the island pushes entrepreneurs to think globally from day one.We dive into the intersection of branding, technology, and artificial intelligence, exploring how AI is reshaping industries, why creativity is more important than ever, and what it means to build products for both people and robots. Sergey also reflects on Cyprus as a hub for innovation, the balance between work and lifestyle, and why passion and adaptability are the keys to thriving in an era of constant change.It’s a wide-ranging conversation about business, creativity, and the future of technology straight from one of Cyprus’ most dynamic entrepreneurial voices.Brought to you by Factory 39 and Martin Zarian.

In this episode of Made in Cyprus, Martin sits down with Stavriana Nathanail, marketing strategist, CMO, and host of Clicks & Cocktails, to talk about the evolution of Cyprus’ marketing scene. They dive into the power of localisation, why community matters more than competition, and how brands on the island can embrace collaboration to grow. Stavriana also shares her journey from startup dreamer to marketing leader, and why passion, hustle, and people-first thinking are at the heart of every great campaign.

Relationships, emotional health, and authenticity — these are topics that impact us all but often stay buried beneath surface-level conversations. In this episode of Made in Cyprus, we sit down with Stephanos Ioannou, psychologist and founder of the Limassol Psychological Well-being Center, and Helene Alexi Ioannides, systemic therapist and authenticity coach, to explore the power of inner work and the dynamics of building a relationship that truly grows with you.From generational trauma and toxic patterns to returning to Cyprus and raising a family with intention, Stephanos and Helene open up about their personal journey, their professional insights and the daily practice of staying emotionally connected and honest.Whether you’re in a relationship, navigating your own personal development, or curious about the mental health movement in Cyprus, this episode offers an honest and inspiring look into what it really takes to love and live authentically.Brought to you by Factory 39 and Martin Zarian.

Biotech isn’t the first thing that comes to mind when people think of Cyprus, but Dr Marianna Prokopi-Demetriades is changing that. In this episode of Made in Cyprus, we sit down with Marianna: biotech founder, Forbes-listed innovator, and the woman behind three life sciences companies working to change the way cancer is treated.From losing close family members to cancer, to building therapies that reverse cancer cells, Marianna shares the story behind her mission and the immense resilience it takes to launch biotech startups on an island not yet built for it.We talk about science with empathy, raising millions from values-aligned investors, and why caring with heart is just as important as creating a cure. This is a powerful conversation on trauma, purpose, and the fight to bring meaningful innovation to life no matter the odds.Brought to you by Factory39 and Martin Zarian.

Everyone's talking about AI, but how much of it is hype and how much of it is actually changing the way we work?In this episode, Martin sits down with Ivan Sysoev, Chief AI Officer at Quadcode, to talk about what AI looks like in practice, not theory. They unpack the myths, the real risks, and the potential for business transformation.From AI-powered productivity to the risks of relying too much on machines to think for us, this episode brings a grounded, strategic lens to the global AI conversation. Plus: what Cyprus is getting right and what we need to catch up on.If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the AI noise, this one’s for you.Brought to you by Factory 39 and Martin Zarian.

Gaming is now the biggest entertainment industry in the world, bigger than film and music combined. And Cyprus has quietly become one of its most important hubs.In this episode of Made in Cyprus, we sit down with Roman and Kirill Gurskiy, twin brothers and Managing Directors of GEM Capital, one of the most active gaming venture capital firms in the world. From working together at EY to funding major successes like Atomic Heart and Replaced, they share how they turned a lifelong passion for gaming into a global investment powerhouse.We talk about the rise of Cyprus as a gaming destination, what makes gaming investments different from traditional VC, and the trends shaping the future of the industry, from free-to-play to AAA titles and in-game economies.It’s a conversation full of insight, real talk, and plenty of laughs. Whether you’re a gamer, a founder, or an investor, this episode is packed with lessons on turning your passion into your profession.Brought to you by Factory 39 and Martin Zarian.

Cypriots around the world are making waves in business, culture, and innovation, but how connected are they to their roots?In this episode of Made in Cyprus, we dive into the inspiring story of Paul Lambis — founder of the Cyprus Diaspora Forum as well as award-winning screenwriter, playwright, author, filmmaker, and creator of Culturescope. From the challenges of cultural preservation abroad to building meaningful connections between the diaspora and the island, Paul shares his personal journey from Johannesburg to Cyprus and the mission behind the Forum.We also explore the importance of maintaining cultural roots, the challenges of integrating into new societies, and how the Forum is shaping the future of Cyprus as a global hub for business and culture.Whether you're a business professional, a diaspora member, or simply curious about Cyprus’ untapped potential, this episode offers valuable insights and fresh perspectives. Tune in and join the conversation on shaping Cyprus’ future through unity and collaboration.Brought to you by Factory39 and Martin Zarian.

Menopause is a reality for half the population, yet it's a topic that remains largely misunderstood and under-discussed, especially in Cyprus. In this episode of Made in Cyprus, we sit down with Kathy Kattashis, menopause coach and founder of MITRA, to explore the reality of menopause, the stigma surrounding it, and why it’s time to bring this conversation into the mainstream.From the lack of medical research to the impact on careers and relationships, Kathy shares her personal journey, the work she’s doing to push for awareness and policy change, and how businesses, families, and individuals can better support those going through it.It’s an eye-opening conversation for everyone that challenges outdated narratives and highlights why we all need to care about menopause.Brought to you by Factory39.

In this episode of Made in Cyprus – Big Business Stories from a Tiny Island, host Martin sits down with Gala Grigoreva, the CMO at Adsterra, marketeer, mentor, and advocate for women in tech. Gala shares her journey from her early days in PR to becoming a leader in branding and marketing, revealing how she masterfully blends creativity, data, and authentic storytelling to build powerful brands.Gala explains that while brand represents the personality of a business, marketing is its voice - a synergy that is essential for standing out in today’s crowded digital landscape. She also dives into the nuances of personal branding for introverts, the challenges of balancing professional ambition with personal well-being, and how genuine communication can forge lasting emotional connections with customers.Tune in to discover Gala’s insights on leveraging authentic narratives, fostering empowerment in tech, and redefining success beyond conventional metrics.Brought to you by Factory 39.

In this episode of Made in Cyprus – Big Business Stories from a Tiny Island, our host sits down with Artem Burtsev, CMO of bb:, to explore the evolving world of real estate branding in Cyprus. Artem shares his journey through rebranding challenges—from separating development from traditional agency models to launching creative tenders that reshaped market perceptions.Discover how emotional storytelling, strategic pricing, and a focus on customer experience can transform a commodity into an aspirational brand. With insights drawn from both local and international markets, Artem explains why differentiating through authentic, human-centric branding is key to building a better future in an increasingly competitive landscape.Brought to you by Factory 39.

How does a love for art and engineering shape the future of fashion? In this episode, Made in Cyprus host Martin Zarian chats with creative entrepreneur Evangelina Fysa, founder of Bungalow 28 - a boutique agency at the intersection of style, branding, and tech. Evangelina reveals her unconventional path from coding websites as a teenager to attending exclusive runway shows, and finally launching her own brand and consultancy. Discover why heritage fashion houses still thrive without heavy marketing, how Web3 principles like transparency and community can revolutionise brand-consumer relationships, and why technology should serve humanity - not the other way around. If you’ve ever wondered how to blend creativity, purpose, and cutting-edge tech, Evangelina’s story will inspire you to do it on your own terms - one stitch (or one line of code) at a time.

In this episode of Made in Cyprus, we chat with keynote speaker and leadership coach Michael Virardi. Michael recounts how a chance conference trip to North Carolina sparked his passion for public speaking, ultimately leading him away from a thriving family business. We explore the power of authenticity in personal branding, the importance of vulnerability in leadership, and why staying true to your values is the ultimate competitive advantage. Michael also shares insights on harnessing AI as a personal assistant, embracing empathy as a game-changer in business, and remembering the human connection in an increasingly digital world. Tune in to discover how carving your own path - no matter where you start - can unlock unlimited possibilities. Brought to you by Factory 39.

In this episode of Made in Cyprus, we dive into the fast-evolving world of branding and marketing with Nadezhda Ivanova, Chief Communication Officer at Unlimit and co-leader of Tech Island. Nadia shares the story behind Unlimit’s bold rebranding journey, transitioning from CardPay to a global fintech powerhouse with a neon green identity and a mission to stay "ready for tomorrow." We explore the critical role of creativity and differentiation in today’s saturated markets, the challenges of scaling a global brand across diverse regions, and how to balance constant evolution with a core brand philosophy. Nadia also reveals her approach to navigating fear during a rebrand, managing complex operations, and why authentic storytelling is at the heart of successful brands. Tune in for a masterclass in branding and marketing for the fintech world, packed with insights on leadership, creativity, and adapting to rapid change. Brought to you by Factory 39.

In this episode of Made in Cyprus, Andreas Spyrou, a third-generation leader at ASG Group and a key figure behind the Limassol and Larnaca Marathons, shares his journey navigating the complexities of a family business while driving innovation in Cyprus' evolving landscape. We explore how Andreas and his team transformed challenges into opportunities during the pandemic, diversifying their business into new ventures, while continuing to grow Cyprus’ largest sporting event. Andreas also opens up about balancing tradition with modernisation, the dynamics of family business, and the opportunities and challenges posed by Cyprus’ rapid development. Tune in to hear Andreas’ thoughts on the future of Cyprus, the importance of embracing change, and how strategic decisions can turn crises into growth. Brought to you by Factory 39.

In this episode of Made in Cyprus, we explore the powerful concept behind Fckup Nights Limassol with Maria and Alla, the dynamic duo bringing this global movement to Cyprus. Fckup Nights offers a safe space for business leaders to openly share their failures, creating an environment that encourages vulnerability, trust, and growth. Maria and Alla share their personal journeys with failure and why embracing imperfections is essential in both personal and professional life. We discuss how early expectations and cultural backgrounds shape our perception of success—and the relief in breaking free from perfectionism. Tune in to hear how F*ckup Nights Limassol is connecting the community and changing the conversation around failure. Brought to you by Factory 39 and Martin Zarian.

In this episode of Made in Cyprus, we sit down with Efi Philippou, a fractional CFO and financial strategist, to uncover the power of aligning purpose with financial strategy. Efi shares her journey from auditing, to helping businesses avoid financial pitfalls, emphasising the importance of sustainable growth and operational alignment. Learn how fractional CFOs can help businesses navigate challenges, optimise cash flow, and translate numbers into impactful stories. Whether you’re a startup founder, a hospitality leader, or simply curious about purpose-driven financial leadership, this conversation is packed with actionable insights for building resilient businesses. Brought to you by Factory 39.

In this episode of Made in Cyprus, we’re joined by Violeta Skittidi, co-founder of Formulaw, a pioneering startup that’s streamlining legal processes for SMEs through innovative AI-powered contract management. Violeta shares how Formulaw evolved from a university project in London into a full-fledged legal tech startup with a mission to make legal services more accessible and affordable for small businesses. We dive into the current challenges facing Cyprus' legal system, such as the slow court processes and limited digital innovation. Violeta explains how Formulaw is tackling these issues by developing AI technology that generates, reviews, and automates contracts securely—without relying on generic templates. She also shares insights on the startup’s vision to democratise the legal field, enabling faster, safer business agreements that don’t sacrifice quality or compliance. Tune in to learn how Formulaw is setting out to transform the Cypriot legal landscape and support the growth of SMEs with smarter, more efficient contract solutions. Brought to you by Factory 39.

In this episode of "Made in Cyprus," we sit down with Yiannis Eftychiou, co-founder of 33East, Cyprus' first VC fund backed by the European Union. We explore the challenges and opportunities that come with building a venture capital ecosystem on the island, how 33East is bringing nearly €40 million into the local tech scene, and what it takes to foster homegrown innovation. Yiannis shares his insights on why Cyprus is uniquely positioned for high-tech growth, the role of government and private sector alignment, and the strategic vision driving 33East. We also discuss the global perception of Cyprus as a tech hub and the importance of reversing the brain drain through local investment. Tune in to hear how 33East is set to transform the landscape for Cypriot startups and place the island on the global tech map. Brought to you by Factory 39.

In this episode of the "Made in Cyprus" podcast, we dive deep into the complexities of moving money in today’s hyper-connected world with Viktoria Soltesz, CEO of PSP Angels Group and founder of the Soltesz Institute. Despite living in a digital-first world, transferring money across borders is far from straightforward. Viktoria unravels the misconceptions surrounding the financial landscape, explores why we’ve seen a sudden boom in payment providers in Cyprus, and shares insights from her book Moving Money - How Banks Think. With over 20 years of experience navigating the complexities of finance and compliance, Viktoria explains why fintech and traditional banking aren’t as different as they might seem and sheds light on how businesses can better leverage technology to stay ahead of the curve. Tune in to learn more about Cyprus’s potential as a financial hub, the evolving role of fintech in the global economy, and what businesses can do to better understand the invisible networks moving their money. Brought to you by Factory 39.

In this episode, Martin Zarian sits down with Stylianos Lambrou, co-founder of The Heart Group, The Doers Company, and Reflect Festival. Stylianos shares his inspiring journey of returning to Cyprus during a time of crisis and his unwavering belief in the island’s potential. They discuss the challenges of entrepreneurship, the power of community, and his vision for positioning Cyprus as a global tech hub. From transforming historic buildings to creating Europe’s leading tech festival, Stylianos is paving the way for the next generation of Cypriot innovators. Brought to you by Factory 39, tune in to discover how Stylianos is transforming Cyprus into a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem, one visionary project at a time.

In this episode of Made in Cyprus, Martin is joined by Diana Verkhoturova, founder of Anymaster, a platform transforming the service industry in Cyprus by creating trust and efficiency between service providers and clients. Together, they explore the challenges of navigating the traditional service market on the island, where unreliable tradesmen and extended delivery times are common frustrations. Diana shares the origin story of Anymaster, sparked by her own struggles with finding reliable professionals during an office renovation. Martin and Diana dive into the unique business model of Anymaster, which partners with local giants like Superhome Center to revolutionise delivery and installation times, making same-day or next-day service the new standard in Cyprus. The conversation also touches on the cultural nuances Diana encountered while building a business in Cyprus, the challenge of onboarding trusted service providers, and the difficulty of breaking through as a young female entrepreneur in a male-dominated field. They discuss Diana’s shift from the cryptocurrency world to solving tangible, everyday problems, and the expansion plans for Anymaster, including entry into the Greek market. Tune in for insights on entrepreneurship, scaling a service-driven business, and Diana's inspiring journey as a tech-savvy leader pushing the boundaries of Cyprus’s service economy. Brought to you by Factory 39.

In this episode of "Made in Cyprus," we explore the fast-moving world of flexible living with Demetris Papadopoulos, the CEO and co-founder of Moving Doors. From traditional renting to the dynamic landscape of flexible accommodation, Demetris sheds light on how Moving Doors is revolutionising the real estate market in Cyprus and beyond. Demetris shares his journey from humble beginnings in real estate to founding Moving Doors, a company that bridges the gap between landlords and tenants through fully serviced, flexible-term rentals. We discuss the benefits and challenges of this model, the importance of technology, and the strategic decision to expand into markets like Dubai. Tune in to learn about the rebranding journey from Staycaee to Moving Doors, the unique business insights that set them apart, and their ambitious plans for future growth. This episode is packed with valuable lessons for property owners, real estate enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the evolving landscape of flexible living. Brought to you by Factory 39.

In this episode of "Made in Cyprus," we dive into the dynamic world of events and iGaming with Eman Pulis, the mastermind behind Sigma. Who would have ever thought that one of the most influential iGaming summits would emerge from the Mediterranean? Malta first and now more recently Cyprus. This is the story of how Eman Pulis, starting from organising university parties, built a global powerhouse in the iGaming industry—the biggest event company in the space. Eman shares his journey from humble beginnings in event management to founding Sigma, a summit that now attracts tens of thousands of participants from around the world. We explore the unique challenges and triumphs of running large-scale events, the importance of regulation and technology in iGaming, and the innovative ways Sigma connects stakeholders across the whole industry. He also discusses his efforts in giving back through the Sigma Foundation, his ventures into global markets, and the recent expansion and rebranding of Sigma. Tune in to hear Eman's inspiring story of resilience, adaptability, and his vision for the future of iGaming and beyond. Brought to you by Factory 39.

Who would have ever thought that Cyprus would be home to a successful biotech and deep tech company? This is the story of Constantinos Loizou, the visionary founder of Embio Diagnostics. In this episode of "Made in Cyprus," we delve into the fascinating, complex and inspiring world of biotech and deep tech with Constantinos, who shares his journey of pioneering advanced diagnostics technology right from the heart of Cyprus. We explore how Embio Diagnostics has transitioned from its initial focus on food tech to developing cutting-edge air and health monitoring systems. Constantinos discusses the challenges and triumphs of building a deep tech company in Cyprus, emphasising the importance of innovation, persistence, and a strong team. He also sheds light on the critical role of AI in enhancing their technologies and offers valuable insights for aspiring tech entrepreneurs. Tune in to learn about the groundbreaking work of Embio Diagnostics and how it's poised to make a global impact. Brought to you by Factory 39.

In this episode of "Made in Cyprus," we explore the digital construction ecosystem with Sotiris Pittas and Joanna Krashia, co-founders of BolsterUp. They share how their platform addresses the fragmentation of the construction industry by connecting all stakeholders, from architects to suppliers, creating an inclusive network for successful project collaborations. Sotiris and Joanna discuss the challenges they faced in bringing BolsterUp to life, from identifying the problem in Australia's construction sector to navigating the unique hurdles of Cyprus. They highlight how their diverse backgrounds and experiences across different countries helped shape their solution. The episode delves into the importance of a strong founding team with complementary skills, the role of effective matchmaking in construction projects, and the significance of building trust and transparency in the industry. They also touch on their plans for expanding BolsterUp beyond Cyprus, aiming to revolutionize the construction industry globally. Listeners will be inspired by the founders' dedication to solving a pervasive problem and their vision for a more connected and efficient construction ecosystem. Tune in to learn how BolsterUp is paving the way for innovation in the construction industry. Brought to you by Factory 39.

In this episode of "Made in Cyprus," we delve into the innovative world of Social Tech Lab with founders Stephen Stavrou and Burak Berk Doulay. They share their journey of using entrepreneurship and technology to bridge the divide in Cyprus and promote peace through business. Stephen and Burak discuss their mission to create resilient entrepreneurial ecosystems that thrive in complex conditions. With Social Tech Lab, they leverage technology and entrepreneurship to build bridges across divides, solve social and environmental challenges, and foster positive peace. They share their experiences of overcoming challenges, such as navigating the political and social complexities of a divided island, the skepticism that often accompanies peace-building efforts, and much more. Listeners will learn about the innovative programs offered by Social Tech Lab, such as hackathons, academies, and venture builders, which have supported over 80 startups in 2023 alone. These programs provide training, mentorship, and resources to help early-stage entrepreneurs develop their ideas and bring them to market. Notably, three of these startups received funding to advance their projects, demonstrating the tangible impact of Social Tech Lab's initiatives. This is a story of resilience, determination, and a shared passion for creating positive change through entrepreneurship. Tune in to discover how Social Tech Lab is transforming the entrepreneurial landscape and promoting peace through business. Brought to you by Factory 39.

In this episode of "Made in Cyprus," we dive into the world of investment-based crowdfunding with Frixos Larkos, founder of Crowdbase, the first regulated investment crowdfunding platform in Cyprus. Crowdbase is pioneering a new way to fund innovative startups on the island. Frixos shares his vision of creating a pan-European platform that connects investors with promising Cypriot startups in need of funding. We explore the challenging journey of launching Crowdbase, from the initial idea in 2020 to the first campaign launch in 2022. Frixos navigated the complex regulatory landscape and overcame numerous obstacles to get the platform off the ground, spending over a year on regulatory approval alone. Despite the long hours and bureaucracy, Frixos remained focused on his mission to create an ecosystem that empowers startups and investors alike. This is another wonderful story that testifies to how Cyprus is the perfect startup hub, provided that the right policies and initiatives are implemented to nurture innovation and growth. Tune in to discover how Crowdbase is driving change and enabling startups to thrive in Cyprus and beyond. Brought to you by Factory 39.

In this episode of "Made in Cyprus," we delve into the almost impossible brand and business story of Hasan Siber, founder of Colive, a pioneering olive oil brand that transcends the island’s historical divide between North and South. Hasan, a Cypriot entrepreneur born in Istanbul, was inspired by the unique quality of family-produced olive oil and driven by a vision to foster peace and collaboration in Cyprus. Colive operates across the hard borders of the island, collaborating with family farmers from both communities; Turkish Cypriots and Greek Cypriots , making it the first business in over 50 years to bridge this geopolitical divide. The challenges of setting up such a venture are immense, involving negotiations with multiple administrations, navigating complex bureaucracy, and building trust among communities historically at odds.Hasan’s commitment to Colive is not just about producing exceptional olive oil but about crafting a narrative of unity and cooperation. By labelling the product simply as Cypriot, Colive embodies a vision that surpasses entrenched nationalistic divides. This effort not only supports local agriculture but also serves as a model for economic cooperation as a means of peace-building.The creation of Colive stands as a testament to the potential of entrepreneurship to bridge deep-rooted conflicts by promoting a shared goal and mutual benefits. Hasan’s journey with Colive illustrates the profound impact that visionary entrepreneurs can have, turning everyday commodities into instruments of peace and reconciliation. Join us to explore how Colive is not merely selling olive oil but is nurturing seeds of peace across Cyprus, proving that business can indeed be a powerful catalyst for change. Brought to you by Factory 39.

In this episode of "Made in Cyprus: Big Biz Stories from a Small Island," we delve into the innovative world of Cypriot real estate with Pavlos Loizou, the founder of Ask Wire. Coming from a traditional background in real estate, Pavlos has transitioned into tech entrepreneurship to reshape the industry with data-driven solutions. Quite a challenge for one of the most conservative industries of Cyprus... Listen in as Pavlos discusses how Ask Wire leverages data analytics to simplify the real estate market, offering unprecedented clarity and insight. This episode explores how technology can transform traditional industries, using Pavlos' venture as a prime example. It's a discussion on innovation, challenges, and the future of real estate, highlighting how Ask Wire is positioning Cyprus as a hub for tech-savvy real estate solutions. Pavlos shares his insights on the Cypriot market dynamics, the evolution of real estate demands, and the strategic approach needed for success. Ask Wire is not just a startup; it's a testament to how data can empower decisions, fostering a more transparent and efficient market. This episode is essential for tech enthusiasts, real estate professionals, and anyone intrigued by the intersection of tradition and innovation. "Made in Cyprus" gives you a closer look at how Pavlos Loizou is steering the future of real estate, promoting a culture of innovation that transcends the small island's borders. Brought to you by Factory 39.

In this captivating episode of "Made in Cyprus: Big Biz Stories from a Small Island," we delve into the innovative world of plant-based cuisine with George Vou, the founder of Mighty Kitchen, a plant-based meat company from Cyprus.Join us as George shares his trailblazing journey from traditional Mediterranean meals to pioneering a plant-based meat company that's challenging culinary norms and reshaping the food industry in Cyprus and beyond.Mighty Kitchen is making waves by crafting vegan Mediterranean delights that cater to a global palate whilst staying true to regional tastes. From Greek-style gyros to Middle Eastern shawarma, Mighty Kitchen is on a mission to create plant-based alternatives that honour the rich culinary heritage of the Mediterranean.But what prompts a successful tech entrepreneur to venture into the world of vegan meats? In a revealing conversation, George takes us back to his roots, sharing personal anecdotes from his upbringing in a traditional Mediterranean family, his pivotal moment of change in 2014, and the journey towards adopting a plant-based lifestyle.His transition wasn't just a personal transformation but a spark that ignited the idea for Mighty Kitchen.Faced with scepticism from family and the challenge of introducing a new product category, George's story is a testament to the power of innovation, determination, and the ability to see beyond the conventional. Mighty Kitchen's journey from ideation to becoming a sought-after brand in Cyprus and expanding into international markets like the UK and UAE is nothing short of inspiring.This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of tradition and innovation, the environmental and health benefits of plant-based eating, and the entrepreneurial spirit that drives change. George's perspective on building a brand that resonates with diverse tastes, navigating the challenges of product development, and the vision for Mighty Kitchen's future will leave you inspired and perhaps a bit hungry for change.Don't miss this insightful conversation on "Made in Cyprus," where we explore big entrepreneurial journeys from a small but mighty island. George Ru's story is a vivid reminder that with passion, patience, and a bit of creativity, it's possible to make a significant impact, one plant-based meal at a time.Brought to you by Factory 39, tune in to discover how Mighty Kitchen is putting Cyprus on the global map, one delicious, sustainable bite at a time.