UPDATE: Ireland has just announced a significant funding boost of €23 million for four European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIH) as the program enters its critical second phase. This funding, revealed late last month, is set to provide over 200 training courses and facilitate more than 3,000 engagements nationwide, marking a pivotal moment for digital transformation in the country.
The EDIH program, launched in 2023, aims to enhance the competitiveness of businesses, especially small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), through cutting-edge digital technologies such as AI, cybersecurity, and automation. With more than 450 hubs across Europe, these facilities act as “one-stop shops” for businesses, providing access to technical expertise, financing advice, and essential skills development.
In Ireland, the four hubs include:
– CeADAR, based at University College Dublin (UCD), focusing on AI innovation.
– FactoryXChange, led by the Irish Manufacturing Research technology center in Mullingar.
– Entire, driven by Tyndall National Institute in Cork.
– Data2Sustain, led by Atlantic Technological University in Sligo.
The second phase of the EDIH program is set to run until 2029 and is poised to deliver transformative results for Irish SMEs. Officials expect to roll out over 1,100 “Test Before Invest” projects, alongside the aforementioned training and engagements.
Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment Peter Burke, TD, commented:
“Extending the European Digital Innovation Hub programme in Ireland into Phase 2 ensures that our SMEs will continue to access world-class digitalisation support.”
He emphasized that this initiative would enhance Ireland’s competitiveness and help businesses adopt vital technologies for future sustainability.
Enterprise Ireland CEO Jenny Melia expressed pride in supporting the continuation of the EDIH initiative, highlighting the importance of scaling access to specialized expertise and targeted training. She stated,
“By scaling up access to ‘Test Before Invest’ facilities, specialist expertise and targeted training nationwide, we are helping businesses accelerate productivity, build resilience and remain competitive in an increasingly digital global economy.”
In an exciting development, two of the hubs, FactoryXChange and CeADAR, have been awarded the prestigious STEP Seal by the European Commission, which recognizes top-rated innovation projects across the region. The remaining two hubs are currently undergoing evaluation for the same accolade.
As the digital landscape evolves, this funding surge represents a crucial step toward ensuring that Irish businesses remain at the forefront of global competitiveness. The urgency of this initiative provides a vital lifeline to enterprises striving to adapt to the fast-paced digital economy.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story, as Ireland gears up to transform its digital ecosystem and empower businesses with the tools they need for success. Don’t miss out on essential updates—sign up for the Daily Brief from Silicon Republic for the latest in sci-tech news.
