Cyprus aims to strengthen its position in the fields of artificial intelligence (AI), high-performance computing, and digital sovereignty through a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed on Friday between the Research and Innovation Foundation (RIF) and Tenstorrent Inc., a global leader in AI and RISC-V–based computing solutions.
The signing ceremony took place at the Presidential Palace, in the presence of Deputy Minister of Research, Innovation and Digital Policy Dr. Nicodemos Damianou and Deputy Minister to the President Irini Piki, following a meeting between Tenstorrent executives and President Nikos Christodoulides. The MoU was signed by Chief Scientist Dr. Demetris Skourides, in his capacity as RIF Chairman, and Tenstorrent CEO Jim Keller.
According to the RIF, the agreement marks a milestone in Cyprus’ technological development, establishing a long-term partnership to enhance the country’s capacity in four key areas: AI and semiconductor design, integrating Cyprus into Europe’s open-source and RISC-V ecosystem, sovereign computing infrastructure supporting the EU’s AI regulatory framework, academic collaboration and talent development in AI, microelectronics, and high-performance computing and public-private partnerships driving innovation in sectors such as energy, health, shipping, and defence.
Deputy Minister Damianou described the MoU as “a tangible demonstration of Cyprus’ ambition to build the next generation of a technology and innovation hub, both regionally and globally.” Dr. Skourides said the collaboration represents “a defining step in Cyprus’ technological journey,” reflecting the nation’s commitment to excellence and innovation.
Tenstorrent CEO Jim Keller praised Cyprus as “a country that shares our vision for open computing, innovation, and technological independence,” adding that the company plans to open offices in Cyprus in 2026, creating new opportunities for research, education, and AI development.
It is noted that Tenstorrent is a leading innovator in open hardware design and AI chips based on RISC-V architecture, offering open-source alternatives to major GPU providers. The agreement aligns with Cyprus’ Vision 2035, its National AI Strategy, and the Minds in Cyprus initiative, reinforcing the island’s emergence as a regional innovation hub, the announcement concludes.
