ENTIRE was delighted to attend the European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs) Annual Conference held in Brussels from May 31 – June 1 2023. The event provided a valuable platform for industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators to discuss the role and progress of EDIHs in supporting digital transformation across Europe.
To date, 150 EDIHs have finalised contracts, with an additional 80 entities expected to sign by July 1. Ireland’s EDIH network comprises four key hubs including ENTIRE, FactoryXChange, CeADAR and DATA2SUSTAIN.
During the 2 day conference attendees explored collaborative opportunities, shared best practices, and delved into the challenges and solutions associated with the digital transformation of small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
Networking was a central theme, with presentations on how EDIHs can leverage each other’s strengths to provide broader support to European SMEs. Platforms like the Digital Transformation Accelerator (DTA) offer EDIHs resources like knowledge hubs, training sessions, and thematic groups. DIGI-SI, EDIH Saxony, and WalHub exemplified collaborative models, showcasing joint service development, cross-border events, and knowledge sharing to drive innovation in their networks.
The EDIH working group supporting SMEs with lower digital adoption also shared insights from a 16-month pilot project covering five European industries. This project provided targeted digitalisation strategies for sectors like construction, textiles, retail, automotive, and agrifood, offering valuable guidance on addressing barriers to digital transformation.
The conference underscored the EU’s commitment to creating a digitally unified continent, driven by the collective efforts of EDIHs. Despite challenges, the collaborative spirit and innovative approaches within this network promise a more resilient, technologically advanced future for European industries.
