Centre of Excellence

About the Foundation

The European Centre of Excellence in Cybersecurity, Privacy, and Digital Resilience


The European Intelligence-driven Security, Privacy and Resilience Centre of Excellence (EU-INSPIRE CoE) is a pioneering, non-profit legal entity based in Cyprus, created to transform the landscape of cybersecurity and digital innovation across the European Union. Established as a legally independent entity and inspired by the enduring impact and structure of a foundation, EU-INSPIRE CoE carries forward the mission of the EU-funded EU-INSPIRE project.

What We Stand For

EU-INSPIRE CoE aims to lead Europe’s transformation in cybersecurity, privacy protection, and digital resilience by operating across three core pillars:

  • Research & Innovation: Tackling emerging cyber threats, AI-driven security, and digital conformity through cutting-edge research and collaboration with global scientific leaders.
  • Education & Skills Development: Offering certified microcredentials, postgraduate programmes, and lifelong learning opportunities that align with the European Cybersecurity Skills Framework (ECSF).
  • Technology Transfer & Market Impact: Supporting spin-offs, SMEs, and startups through knowledge exchange, innovation acceleration, and policy consulting aligned with EU regulations (NIS2, GDPR, CRA, AI Act, etc.).

Our Goals

EU-INSPIRE CoE works to:

  • Empower “Widening Countries” with lower R&I participation by building strong local ecosystems.
  • Reverse the brain drain by creating high-quality jobs and retaining scientific talent in Southern, Eastern, and Central Europe.
  • Promote compliance and best practices in cybersecurity aligned with EU directives.
  • Fuel innovation through public-private partnerships and support for emerging cybersecurity companies.
  • Bridge the gap between academic research and practical industry needs.

A European Hub for Strategic Cyber Capacity

Guided by the vision and societal orientation typical of a foundation, the CoE is:

  • Thematically organised into four institutes, including a European Cybersecurity Academy aimed at becoming a Private Higher Education Institution.
  • Digitally native, applying cutting-edge tools in operations, governance, and education.
  • Inclusive and mission-driven, connecting public authorities, academia, industry, and civil society across borders.

EU-INSPIRE CoE operates under a financially sustainable model, with expected revenue growth from educational programmes, research grants, and strategic partnerships.