On November 14, 2024, the official kick-off meeting of the EDIH DIGIHUB project – “Improving the competitiveness of SMEs and public organizations in the South-Eastern region of Bulgaria through integrated innovative digital solutions” was held at the Central Park conference center in Burgas. The project, funded by the European Union under the “Research, Innovation and Digitalization for Smart Transformation” program, brought together a consortium of partners united around the vision for the digital development of the region.
Main objectives of the project
The EDIH DIGIHUB project has been awarded the “Seal of Excellence” by the European Commission, emphasizing its significance for the digitalization of the region. The main objective of the project is to support the digital transformation of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and the public sector by offering innovative solutions in areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, big data and distributed ledger technologies. The services are aimed at key sectors for the Southeast region, including energy, healthcare, transport, logistics and tourism.
Construction of a laboratory complex and services offered
At the beginning of the project, the team will focus on building an innovative laboratory complex that will provide unique opportunities to support SMEs and the public sector. The laboratories will have modern equipment, providing access to:
- High-performance computing – for analyzing large volumes of data and machine learning.
- Virtual and augmented reality technologies – with applications in education, industry and science.
- 3D creativity and rapid prototyping – using 3D printers and laser machines for rapid prototype development.
- Intelligent communication infrastructures – including 5G and IoT devices, for reliable network solutions.
- Network testing devices and AI training hardware – for simulations, testing and development of innovative AI and IoT solutions.
Among the main services of the laboratory complex are pre-investment testing capabilities, automation of production processes, digitalization of business processes, as well as managed cybersecurity services that help organizations improve their efficiency and security.
Consortium and partnership
The EDIH DIGIHUB consortium brings together key experts from various fields, includingICT Cluster Burgas, DINT Foundation,Municipality of Burgas, University “Prof. Dr. Asen Zlatarov”, Burgas Free University, DINT Foundation, RAC-BAS Burgas and AIBEST Association. Each partner contributes expertise and resources necessary to achieve the project goals and support the digital transformation in the region.
What’s next
The kick-off meeting laid the foundation for the first project activities, including structuring the team, launching communication channels, and planning training and consultations for SMEs and the public sector. In the coming months, the project’s communication strategy will be developed, which will ensure the dissemination of information to all stakeholders and present the progress of DIGIHUB.
The EDIH DIGIHUB project is implemented with the support of the European Union, and we are honored to be part of this important initiative for the digital future of the region. For more information about the project, its goals and upcoming activities, you can visit the EDIH DIGIHUB page on our website.
