Delivering on the Digitalising European Industrial Strategy, the European Commission is setting up a network of digital innovation hubs in Europe to help SMEs, researchers and public authorities to make the most of new digital technologies. 

The level of digitisation in Europe varies greatly according to region, sector and company size. For example, 47% of Danish companies are highly digitised versus 12% in Greece; 50% of companies in ICT, telecommunications and media are highly digitised versus 10% of companies in construction, metal manufacturing, and food processing; 54% of large companies versus 17% of SMEs are highly digitised in the EU. “Europe will only be able to maintain its leading role if the digitisation of its industry is successful and reached fast”, said Commissioner Oettinger.

A network of digital innovation hubs will provide industries with a one-stop shop regarding the latest knowledge, expertise, and technology through a multi-partner cooperation, helping companies become more competitive. The idea is that there will be a collaboration with digital innovation hubs of other regions sharing best practices, success stories and training to fill gaps and facilitate excellence, enabling all sectors to benefit from digital innovation. 

As part of the ERUDITE project (where ERNACT participates as a partner), over sixty attendees from six European countries will gather in Donegal, in October to work on the theme of digital hubs. Attendees will have the opportunity to get inspiration, with presentations from other digital innovation hubs and models in Europe, and discussions with experts including representatives from the European Commission DG AGRI. The event will be complemented with several site visits to innovation centres around Donegal and Northern Ireland. More information on the event can be found here.

Source: European Commission