Accelerated Digitalization for SMEs in the North Central Region (ADi4SMEs) through the European Digital Innovation Hub (EDIH)

Finally, RIC launched the European Digital Innovation Hub, long awaited by companies in the North Central Region. On October 18, 2024, RIC signed the contract with the Managing Authority. The project has a deadline for implementation from 18.10.2024 to 18.10.2027.

The project, “Accelerated Digitalization for SMEs in the North Central Region through the Establishment and Development of an EDIH,” aims to support digital and green transformation for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and public administrations in Bulgaria’s North Central Region. Aligned with the European “Digital Europe” program, this initiative focuses on raising digital maturity, sustainability, and competitiveness in the region’s industries through a specialized European Digital Innovation Hub (EDIH).

Objectives and Scope: The EDIH will serve as a central resource, providing AI-driven services tailored to the regional specialization in Mechatronics, Informatics, and ICT. The project’s goals include enhancing digital skills, re-skilling, and up-skilling human resources to better prepare them for an AI-enhanced workplace. This will address the knowledge gap in digital transformation by offering access to a wide European network of similar hubs, enabling regional businesses to benefit from cutting-edge technology and expertise.

Project Impact:

1. Digital and Green Transformation: Services will promote both digital and sustainable practices.
2. AI-Centric Solutions: Focus on AI-driven software and hardware to accelerate SME market integration.
3. Regional Ecosystem Development: Fosters a community of users and suppliers, building regional innovation networks.
4. Networking and Best Practices: The hub will collaborate with the Digital Transformation Accelerator (DTA) and other European hubs, ensuring shared expertise, regional cross-support, and the spread of digital capabilities.

Strategic Support: The EDIH will act as an access point to the larger European ECICH network, providing SMEs and public actors with a connection to a broader ecosystem of digital innovation resources, essential for sustainable regional development and a more resilient economy.