DIHs (Digital Innovation Hubs) are key elements of the EU innovation infrastructure for accelerating digital transformation among Small and Medium Enterprises (hereinafter referred to as SMEs). Since 2014, hundreds of thousands of European SMEs and startups have received support from the DIHs network and significantly improved their level of readiness for digital transformation.
In 2022, the EU supported creation of a network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIH), which became the next stage of DIH development and received funding on parity terms (50*50) from the Digital Europe program and national governments of EU countries. According to preliminary data, it is expected that a targeted competition will be announced in 2024 for inclusion of Ukraine into the EDIH network, but this requires appropriate changes in the country’s digital innovation policy and an increase in the readiness of Ukrainian organizations to meet high requirements regarding the level of EDIH services.
Unfortunately, the situation in Ukraine regarding support of the DIH network is radically different compared to the policy of the EU countries, and there is a number of reasons for this.
So, how do you start a network of DIHs in Ukraine
In this position paper, UCA experts analyze the current state and challenges of development of DIHs in Ukraine and offer a holistic concept and recommendations for development of the DIHs network.
The document outlines the main principles of forming a network of digital innovation hubs, the first steps in creation of individual hubs, quantitative and qualitative indicators of their activity, and also offers specific UCA services to support creation and functioning of DIHs.
This proposal of the Ukrainian Cluster Alliance is intended mainly for responsible departments of central and regional authorities, local self-government bodies, international partners, regional clusters and industry business associations. It will also be interesting and useful for wide circles of experts and the public, and those interested in innovative and industrial development of SMEs.
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