What is a Digital Innovation Center?
European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs) are essential nodes within the European innovation ecosystem, with the role of helping companies become more competitive by integrating advanced digital technologies.
Digital Innovation Hubs objectives
These specialized centers support the digital transformation of companies, optimizing processes and increasing competitiveness in the market. DIHs provide technical consulting and specialized expertise, allowing companies to "test before they invest", thus reducing the risks associated with the implementation of new technologies. DIHs also offer a wide range of innovative services, such as access to financing, strategic consulting, training and the development of digital skills.
Origin of the concept
Introduced by the European Commission between 2014 and 2020, DIHs are part of the European strategy to boost digital innovation and support the digital transformation of the economy. These centres are designed to help SMEs and public institutions adopt digital technologies and improve their performance.
Structure and functioning of IHLs:
- Regional initiatives: DIHs are integrated in every region of Europe, with the aim of creating regional ecosystems of users and providers. These ecosystems are essential for strengthening the local innovation environment and providing adequate support to local companies, thus responding to their specific needs.
- Support for digital transformation: DIHs provide tailored support for digital transformation initiatives, adapting to regional specificities and the expertise of the consortium members. They draw on the smart specialization of the region and the in-depth knowledge of its members, ensuring an efficient and results-oriented approach.
The mission of IHLs
To accelerate the adoption of digital technologies and increase the level of technological maturity of SMEs and public institutions through four main types of services:
- Service systems innovation: Implementarea de soluții inovatoare care îmbunătățesc procesele și serviciile existente.
- Testing before investment: Testing before investment: Allowing companies to evaluate new technologies and solutions before making major investments.
- Digital Skills: Offering training and digital skills development programs for employees.
- Easy access to financing: Facilitating access to financial resources necessary to implement digital transformation projects.
DIHs also provide state-of-the-art technological infrastructure, essential for the development and testing of new digital solutions.
Evolution of the concept
Since 2017, DIHs have been recognized as essential for the development of regional innovation ecosystems. Multiple Romanian DIHs have been included in the JRC (Joint Research Centre) Initial Catalogue, highlighting their importance in supporting local companies and promoting digital innovation.
