“DIGINN” is the name of the Cypriot node selected to be part of the European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs) network. This initiative falls under the European Union’s action in the “Skills and Interoperability Development” domain within the framework of the “Digital Europe Programme 2021-2027.”

Mission

European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs) are also one-stop-shop service centers supporting businesses and public sector organizations to address digital challenges and enhance competitiveness. Emphasis is placed on the following technologies: High-Performance Computing, Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, and other Key Enabling Technologies such as Rapid Prototyping, Robotics, and the Internet of Things.

Geographical Coverage

Represented in 30 countries: 27 Member States + candidate countries.

In Cyprus, it is represented by a Consortium of 11 public and private organizations:

• Cyprus Institute (Coordinator)
• Centers of Excellence CYENS and KIOS, University of Cyprus, Cyprus University of Technology
• PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC)
• Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) along with Local Chambers of Commerce
• Cyprus Employers and Industrialists Federation (OEB)
• Specialized support entities for startups: Cyprus Seeds, Chrysalis Leap, C4E, and
• Other specialized entities: Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics and Electi Consulting.

Provided Services

The services cover four pillars and are provided free of charge (although subject to state aid regulations) to beneficiary SMEs. In detail:

1. Test before invest: Providing EDIH users the opportunity to test new services or products/applications. Among other activities, this includes awareness activities, digital maturity assessment, demonstration, digital transformation planning, integration, adoption, and adaptation of various technologies, use of laboratories, and knowledge and technology transfer.
2. Skills and Training: Promoting and providing training in advanced digital skills, boot camps, as well as practical exercises.
3. Support to Find Investments: Supporting businesses and the public sector to leverage funding programs and private investments to become more competitive and improve their business models through the use of new digital technologies. The public sector can receive support to become a significant recipient of innovation.
4. Innovation Ecosystem and Networking Opportunities: Mediating to bring together industry, businesses, and the public sector in need of new technological solutions with businesses that have market-ready solutions.