Signed amendments to EDIH ADRIA - successfully concluded EDIH 1.0

Zagreb/Rijeka, December 2024 – Ante Šušnjar, Minister of Economy, Entrepreneurship and Crafts, signed amendments to the contract with four European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIH), ensuring the continuation of their work and further support for the digital transformation of the Croatian economy. Among the centers that received the contract extension is EDIH ADRIA based at the University of Rijeka, which is positioned top in 5% among 225 European Digital Innovation Hubs.

Strategic support for digital transformation

The signing of the contract amendments formalised the extension of the duration of the projects until 30 November 2026, which allows the European Digital Innovation Hubs to continue providing key support to SMEs, local authorities and public organisations in the digital transformation process. This decision ensures the continuity of programs that have proven to be extremely successful in supporting innovation and the implementation of advanced technologies.

Minister Šušnjar stressed the strategic importance of European Digital Innovation Hubs for the Croatian economy. “European Digital Innovation Hubs are key drivers of innovation and digital transformation in Croatia. Their work enables SMEs to access state-of-the-art technologies, expertise and support, which is the basis for increasing the competitiveness and growth of the economy", the Minister pointed out, adding that the Ministry of Economy actively supports their activities in order to ensure the widest possible reach and long-term sustainability of their programmes.

EDIH ADRIA: a successful model of cooperation between science and industry

EDIH ADRIA stands out as an example of excellence in integrating scientific institutions and leading technology companies. The consortium, led by the University of Rijeka, brings together two scientific research institutions (University of Rijeka and Juraj Dobrila University of Pula), global technology leaders in their fields (Ericsson Nikola Tesla and Infobip, the first Croatian unicorn), and business support institutions (Step Ri, the leading Croatian business support institution and technology innovation cluster PORIN, the Development Agency of the City of Rijeka).

This combination of scientific excellence, technological leadership and business expertise has enabled EDIH ADRIA to achieve outstanding results. According to the final report, 92.3% services provided by the centre have an orientation towards artificial intelligence, which is highly positioned by EDIH ADRIA in Europe by the services you test before investing and implementing educational programs related to digital technologies. To date, EDIH ADRIA has trained more than 3500 participants from over 300 different organizations, providing support in digital transformation with the help of artificial intelligence technologies throughout the Adriatic Croatia region.

Test Before Invest program: Practical support for technology implementation

One of the key programmes offered by EDIH ADRIA is the ‘Test Before Invest’ programme, which allows SMEs to test new technologies before making major investment decisions. This approach significantly reduces the risk associated with adopting new digital solutions and enables organisations to make informed decisions based on practical experience.

The program covers a wide range of technologies, from artificial intelligence and machine learning, through the Internet of Things (IoT) and advanced data analytics, to cloud computing solutions and cybersecurity. Each organization receives tailored support that includes consulting, technical implementation, assessment of results and recommendations for further steps.

Educational services: raising digital competences

EDIH ADRIA has developed a comprehensive training programme covering different levels of digital competences. From basic digital literacy programmes for the wider community, through specialised courses for specific industries and sectors, to advanced programmes for technology professionals, the Centre ensures that all stakeholders have access to the necessary knowledge for a successful digital transformation.

Special emphasis is placed on artificial intelligence, an area that is becoming increasingly critical for the competitiveness of the Croatian economy. The programs cover both the understanding of the basic concepts and ethical implications of AI technologies, which is especially important given the new European regulations such as the EU AI Act that enters into force in 2025, as well as the practical implementation of AI solutions in different business contexts.

Regional impact and support for local units

EDIH ADRIA covers the Adriatic Croatia region, providing support not only to the private sector but also to local self-government units and public organizations. This geographical coverage ensures that the benefits of digital transformation reach the entire region, including areas that traditionally have less access to advanced technological resources.

Cooperation with local authorities is particularly important in the context of the development of smart cities and the digitalisation of public services. EDIH ADRIA provides expert support in the planning and implementation of digital solutions that improve the quality of life of citizens, from traffic management and energy efficiency systems to the digitalisation of administrative processes.

European EDIH Network: access to knowledge and markets

As part of the European network of 225 Digital Innovation Hubs, EDIH ADRIA enables Croatian organisations to access a vast pool of knowledge, best practices and business opportunities across Europe. This network functions as a bridge connecting local innovators with European markets and partners, facilitating international cooperation and technology exchange.

The high position of EDIH ADRIA in the 21st place among all European centers testifies to the quality of the services it provides and the recognition at the European level. This position also facilitates access to European projects, funding and strategic partnerships, which further increases the value that the centre brings to the local ecosystem.

Focus on responsible implementation of technologies

EDIH ADRIA stands out for its holistic approach to digital transformation, which takes into account not only technological possibilities but also the ethical, legal and social implications of new technologies. This approach is particularly important in the context of the rapid development of artificial intelligence where innovation needs to be balanced with responsible implementation.

The Centre actively monitors the development of European regulatory frameworks, including the EU AI Act, Product Liability Directive and GDPR, and helps organisations understand and implement compliance requirements. This proactive orientation ensures that Croatian companies are not only technologically advanced but also regulatoryly compliant, which is crucial for competitiveness in the European market.

A vision for the future

The extension of the contract until November 2026 allows EDIH ADRIA to plan long-term initiatives and deepen existing programmes. In the coming period, the center plans to expand the service portfolio, with a special focus on areas that show the greatest potential for impact on the region's economy.

Priority areas include the further development of AI-related programmes, with a focus on sector-specific applications in healthcare, manufacturing, tourism and logistics. The Center also plans to strengthen cooperation with the local startup ecosystem, providing support to tech entrepreneurs in the early stages of development.

Particular attention will be paid to green technologies and digital solutions that contribute to sustainable development, an area that is becoming increasingly important in the context of Europe's climate goals. EDIH ADRIA plans to develop programs that help organizations integrate digital technologies into decarbonisation strategies and circular economies.

Open call for EDIH 2.0 organisations

EDIH ADRIA invites all small and medium-sized organizations, local self-government units and public organizations from the Adriatic Croatia region to get acquainted with the available services and programs within the new project cycle (EDIH 2.0) starting from 1.1.2026. Whether it is the need for expert advice, testing new technologies, or developing digital competences, EDIH ADRIA offers tailor-made support that meets the specific needs of each organisation.

Interested organizations can contact an individual consultation center that will help identify the most appropriate programs and forms of support. All services are designed to be accessible and convenient, with a focus on creating measurable value for users.

As Minister Šušnjar concluded, European Digital Innovation Hubs represent the key infrastructure for Croatia's digital development. EDIH ADRIA, with its impressive results, multi-institutional consortium and focus on responsible implementation of technologies, continues to be a driver of innovation that combines scientific excellence, technological leadership and business needs in coherent support of the digital transformation that contributes to the competitiveness and growth of the Croatian economy.