The European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs) will be established as part of the European Commission’s Digital Europe Programme to shape digital transformation over the 2021-2027 programming period. The programme is aimed at deploying new technologies and cybersecurity solutions; creating more high-performance computers; increasing advanced digital skills and assuring the widespread adoption of e-government tools by public administrations to improve public services.
The proposed network of EDIHs will support digital transformation in SMEs and public sector organisations by encouraging the adoption of the latest advances in the three key technologies of Cybersecurity, Artificial Intelligence and High-Performance Computing. EDIHs will serve as “one-stop-shops” with a research performing organisation at the core, providing access to technical expertise and experimentation, as well as innovation services, and the training and skills development necessary for successful digital transformation.
The Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, through Enterprise Ireland, is leading on the EDIH programme for Ireland. It is expected that the first Irish EDIHs will be operational in late 2022.
The European Commission posts regular updates on the progress of the EDIH network on their dedicated website Shaping Europe’s digital future.