The European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs) Network has expanded to include new hubs in Albania, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia, Ukraine, and Türkiye, marking a significant step in digital transformation across the EU’s Enlargement region.
The newly added hubs will support local businesses, startups, and public institutions in adopting advanced technologies, artificial intelligence (AI), and securing funding, with a strong emphasis on AI-driven innovation.
As part of a recent call for proposals, 18 projects were selected—seven from five Western Balkans (WB) partners, five from Türkiye, and six from Ukraine. Projects in the Western Balkans will begin in early 2025 and run for four years. The initiative has a total budget of €14.6 million, with €4.5 million allocated to hubs in Ukraine, €4.5 million to Türkiye, €1.6 million to Serbia, and €1 million each to Albania, Kosovo, Montenegro, and North Macedonia.
Boosting integration with the EU Digital Single Market
The expansion aligns with the EU’s Growth Plan, aimed at fostering closer economic ties between the Western Balkans and the EU’s single market ahead of accession. Integrating these hubs into the EDIH network is expected to accelerate digital transformation and support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), startups, and the public sector in their green and digital transitions.
To facilitate a smooth rollout, the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Communications Networks, Content and Technology (DG CNECT), in collaboration with the Digital Transformation Accelerator (DTA), hosted an onboarding webinar on Jan. 30. The session provided guidance, best practices, and an overview of tools available within the EDIH Network.
In addition, 65% of the Digital Europe Programme (DEP) financial contribution has already been disbursed as part of the grant agreements signed with each hub, underscoring the EU’s commitment to accelerating digital adoption in the region.
“Test Before Invest”
European Digital Innovation Hubs serve as one-stop shops, helping companies and public institutions navigate digital challenges and boost competitiveness. They provide four key services: “Test Before Invest,” skills training, investment support, and networking within the innovation ecosystem. AI adoption is a core focus, enabling businesses to enhance productivity and decision-making.
The hubs are co-financed, with 50% of funding provided by the Digital Europe Programme, while the remainder comes from national, regional, or private sources.