BRinging Artificial INtelligence towards SMEs

Programme 2021 - 2027 Interreg VI-B Danube

Date of latest update: 2026-04-29

Description

Description (EN):

Common Challenge: Danube Region is formed by a heterogeneous and complex pool of countries and regions with respect to population, geographical size, business and innovation-maturity, and development level. Nonetheless, Danube Region countries also face many common challenges, which can be tackled with the help of well targeted transnational interventions. In the past two decades Danube countries’ economies were predominantly working towards integrating themselves into European value chains - mostly automotive and machinery – leading to a re-orientation on cost-efficient-based manufacturing. However, brain drain, ageing, low demographics, among others, resulted in a constant increase in labour costs, thus, decreasing this key advantage for them. The region was further impacted by the transformation of the manufacturing and industrial landscape – with i 4.0, automation, digitalization, energy crisis, collapse of international supply chains, disruptive artificial intelligence (AI), all leading to dramatic shifts in the ecosystem. Nonetheless, by consciously managing and exploiting these paradigm shifts , especially in very important sectors such as food industry, health sector (also the manufacturing) and sustainable energy, BrAIn project can reveal new development opportunities for the Danube countries. This transformation is foreseen under the broader framework of S3 - seen by the EC Regulation 2021/1060 as enabling conditions for financing innovation (PA1) at territorial level. Overall objective: In order to achieve a transformative impact, transnational harmonized support for the uptake of technologies alongside multiple sectorial S3 value chains is essential. At SME level, this can be done by knowledge transfer on new technologies, such as AI and i 4.0, and related skills upgrade for their employees. Henceforth, the overall goal of the project is to contribute to the increase of the competitiveness of Danube regional SMEs by familiarizing them with the relevance and potential of AI and equip their employees for i 4.0 transition processes and further adapt them to the human-centred i 5.0 approach. This goal is to be achieved by capitalization on previously achieved results (e.g., DanubeS3Cluster, SmartFactoryHub, Danube Peer Chains, D-Care, D-CareLabs), training, testing via pilots, and applying novel solutions of AI in i 4.0 as mentioned by the EUSDR AI White Paper. The project also aims at supporting developing AI-driven applications to overcome international value chain bottlenecks. Main outputs: Our partners will propose concrete AI solutions to alleviate already identified challenges alongside 3 vertical value chains sectors like manufacturing, agro-food, health-care industry, while accounting for the economic, environmental, and social sustainability. As a result, our partnership will contribute with tangible and sustainable results to bridging AI related gaps in the Danube Region by piloting solutions that can contribute to a more innovative, balanced, and convergent territorial development. Approach taken and the need for international approach: Individual regions, even countries have struggle to overcome the transformative challenges and gaining new insights. Specialization on local strength, elaborating dedicated pilot initiatives, learning from each other, are all core components of the international approach. The partnership has complementary competencies in certain sectors – agro-food, health-care industry, manufacturing – and in pre-defined domains – green energy, labour force management and supply chain – that characterizes the specific roles each partner can play in the knowledge-transfer process. Additionally, each partner is strongly embedded into the local ecosystem, ensuring the diffusion of the gained knowledge to multiple regional stakeholders and into the policy level. What is new/original in the project: BrAIn project is new, original and innovative by proposing work on cutting age topics such as AI and i40/i 5.0 skills in specific sectors – agri-food, manufacturing and health, and alongside pre-defined domains: green energy, labour force management and supply chain. BrAIN will implement place based demo-days and pilots, all leading to hands-on transnational knowledge-transfer acting as a validation point for the S3 strategies of the respected geographical areas.

Actual Achievements (EN):

The BrAIn project, launched on 1st January 2024, brings together 11 Project Partners and 10 Associated Strategic Partners with a shared vision to integrate AI-driven innovations across the agro-food, healthcare, and manufacturing sectors. From the outset, the cooperation between partners has been smooth and collaborative. PBN, as the Lead Partner , organized the project's Kick-off Meeting in Budapest on 22-23 January 2024. The first day focused on familiarizing partners with the regional, national, and transnational policy frameworks, as well as highlighting ongoing trends in AI across the project’s three key sectors. The second day provided a comprehensive overview of the work plan, roles, responsibilities, and deadlines. Representatives from the Joint Secretariat outlined the programme's critical milestones, offering guidance for the project's progress. Following the Kick-off Meeting, all partners commenced their work on the activities planned for Period 1. PSO1: Analysis of Regional Innovation Ecosystems A key focus in Period 1 was the elaboration of the Joint Analysis of Regional Innovation Ecosystems, the primary deliverable of Activity 1.1. This analysis aimed to identify the necessary skillsets for enabling AI-driven processes within SMEs. The document, coordinated by IDSI, was developed using the regional analyses contributed by each participating region. PBN further supported this effort by preparing promotional materials to disseminate the project's achievements. Discussions around the concept and structure of trainings also took precedence during PR1. As part of Activity 1.2, PBN finalized the Training Handbook by the end of the period. The handbook offers a clear framework for training materials and outlines the timeline and responsibilities for their implementation. Training sessions will be held across the three defined sectors: agro-food, healthcare, and manufacturing, with discussions on the development of training materials already initiated among responsible partners. In Activity 1.3, preliminary discussions on establishing a trainer network commenced, with SEZ leading PSO1 in close collaboration with the LP and Activity Leaders. PSO2: Business Solutions and Policy Instruments In parallel, PSO2 also saw significant progress during Period 1, under the leadership of XRI. Within Activity 2.1, the goal is to collect 10 business solutions and three policy instruments per partner by mid-October. To support this, Biz-up provided the methodology and templates, while ITC developed an interactive platform (https://platform.itc-cluster.com/) to facilitate project dissemination, collaboration, and matchmaking. Under Activity 2.2, PBN prepared the Demo Case Concept to guide partners in understanding the goals, timelines, and responsibilities for demo case development. The three pre-defined demo cases were introduced at the Kick-off Meeting, with subsequent discussions aimed at fostering transnational cooperation. Each demo case owner has identified key intervention areas and is awaiting input from other partners. PSO3: Introduction and Next Steps Although PSO3 formally begins in Period 2, the framework was presented during the Kick-off Meeting. In an online meeting, W RDA outlined the upcoming tasks for this phase, which will be implemented starting from Period 2. Project Dissemination and Communication ODA led project dissemination efforts, resulting in an active project homepage featuring news updates and useful materials. The project's social media presence, primarily on LinkedIn, has also been robust, sharing not only project updates but also contributions from partners. Additionally, a Factsheet summarizing the results of Activity 1.1 was created as part of PSO1. Coordination and Communication with the Joint Secretariat The LP has maintained continuous communication with the JS, addressing any queries or requests for clarification to ensure smooth project implementation in accordance with the approved Application Form . Regular coordination meetings are scheduled on a monthly basis, during which partners review ongoing activities, upcoming tasks, and any outstanding questions. These meetings have proven instrumental in ensuring alignment and clear communication across the partnership. Since its launch on 1st January 2024, the BrAIn project has steadily progressed toward its overarching goal of integrating AI-driven innovations across the agro-food, healthcare, and manufacturing sectors in the Danube Region. Bringing together 11 Project Partners and 10 Associated Strategic Partners, the project has benefited from strong and smooth cooperation among partners, facilitated by consistent coordination, transparent communication, and active participation. The Kick-off Meeting held in Budapest (22–23 January 2024) set the foundation by introducing policy frameworks, outlining responsibilities, and launching discussions on the first set of deliverables. Regular monthly online meetings and the in-person project meeting in Pilsen (9–11 September 2024) have maintained alignment across the consortium and enabled collaborative progress on all planned work packages. Key Achievements per Project Specific Objective: PSO1 – Capacity Building and Training Development: In Period 1, the partnership finalized the Training Handbook, which provides a structured approach for developing sector-specific training materials in agro-food, healthcare, and manufacturing. Based on this foundation, Period 2 focused on identifying key trainers and stakeholders at local and transnational levels. Collaborative work continued on developing training content, ensuring consistency with the Joint Analysis outcomes and broader project objectives. PSO2 – Demonstration and Business Solution Integration: During Period 1, partners contributed to the Joint Analysis of Regional Innovation Ecosystems and began collecting business solutions and policy instruments through a common methodology and the interactive platform developed by ITC. In Period 2, the focus shifted to the implementation of demo cases, organized into thematic groups to ensure cross-sectoral and transnational relevance. The platform (https://platform.itc-cluster.com/) was activated to support matchmaking, good practice collection, and dissemination of business solutions. PSO3 – Knowledge Exchange and Policy Recommendations: Although activities under PSO3 formally began in Period 2, initial preparations were undertaken already during Period 1. The BrAIn Library concept and the structure for on-the-spot knowledge exchange events were discussed and prepared during Period 2. The partnership also began preliminary work toward building policy recommendations, focusing on enhancing the capacity of regional policymakers to integrate AI in their sectors. Communication and Dissemination: Throughout both periods, the project has maintained a strong and consistent communication strategy. The project homepage and LinkedIn page have been actively updated with news, events, and partner contributions. Promotional materials were created to raise awareness of the project’s vision and early outputs, such as the factsheet summarizing the Joint Analysis. These efforts have supported stakeholder engagement and regional visibility. Coordination and Partnership Management: The Lead Partner (PBN) has ensured continuous and effective communication with the Joint Secretariat and among partners. Monthly coordination meetings have proven essential in addressing challenges, tracking progress, and sustaining commitment across the consortium. The cooperation has remained smooth and productive throughout both reporting periods, laying the groundwork for the next phases of implementation. Conclusion: Across the first two periods, the BrAIn project has built a solid foundation, advancing from preparatory analyses to concrete implementation of demo cases and stakeholder trainings. The structured and collaborative approach across all partners has facilitated significant achievements under each PSO, reinforcing the project’s strategic contribution to the integration of AI in regional innovation ecosystems. Moving forward, the project will continue to build on these achievements, particularly focusing on knowledge exchange, policy dialogue, and the impact-oriented dissemination of results. ince its launch on 1st January 2024, the BrAIn project has steadily advanced towards its goal of fostering AI-driven innovation in agro-food, healthcare, and manufacturing sectors in the Danube Region. In the first reporting period, the foundation was laid through the Kick-off Meeting in Budapest, policy alignment, consortium coordination, and initial deliverables. Key preparatory work included the development of the Training Handbook and the start of the Joint Analysis of Regional Innovation Ecosystems. Building on this groundwork, the second reporting period focused on intensifying stakeholder engagement and starting content development for training and demonstration activities. The in-person meeting in Pilsen and regular online coordination ensured alignment across partners. Progress included identifying trainers and stakeholders, creating the BrAIn interactive platform for business solutions, and initiating early steps towards knowledge exchange and policy input. Communication activities supported visibility and early dissemination. During the third reporting period, the BrAIn partnership entered a more implementation-oriented phase across all work packages. Coordination remained smooth, bolstered by monthly virtual meetings and the in-person partner meeting in Belgrade (11–13 February 2025), held jointly with the FYR meeting and attended by the Joint Secretariat. The mid-term review took place during this meeting, confirming the project’s strong progress and effective management. Under PSO1 – Capacity Building and Training Development, the consortium focused on operationalizing knowledge transfer. The BrAIn online training platform was launched via the EIT Manufacturing East portal, offering publicly accessible AI training modules tailored to the three key sectors. Transnational and local trainings were delivered, particularly in healthcare, with high levels of engagement from regional SMEs and stakeholders. These sessions were aligned with the needs identified in earlier project phases and reinforced by practical examples and cooperation with local actors. The Transnational Working HUB was further developed, and stakeholder meetings contributed actionable insights for post-project sustainability. Under PSO2 – Demonstration and Business Solution Integration, the demo cases matured into active pilots. All three sectoral demonstrations – in manufacturing, agro-food, and healthcare – were tested and presented during transnational trainings. Highlights include the healthcare demo case, featuring a social humanoid robot enhanced with a digital avatar to improve user interaction, supported by focus groups and technical iterations. Coordination ensured that the demo cases evolved consistently and with cross-sectoral relevance. Under PSO3 – Knowledge Exchange and Policy Recommendations, structured capitalization began in earnest. A methodology for the BrAIn Library was finalized, and the library now includes over 140 curated entries. Planning for on-the-spot knowledge exchange workshops advanced, enabling cross-border learning activities to be scheduled. Contributions to regional policy processes were initiated, linking BrAIn outputs with smart specialization and digital transformation strategies, in line with the project’s long-term impact objectives. Communication and Dissemination activities remained consistent and targeted, with ongoing updates to digital platforms and increased visibility of training materials and demo activities. These efforts strengthened stakeholder outreach and supported the project’s broader engagement strategy. Conclusion: Across the first three reporting periods, the BrAIn project has evolved from planning to tangible implementation and early exploitation. The consortium has demonstrated strong coordination, consistent delivery, and strategic alignment across all Specific Objectives. The next phase will focus on deepening knowledge exchange, finalizing policy recommendations, and consolidating results to ensure long-term value and transferability of BrAIn’s outputs across the Danube Region.

Project outputs: Transnational Strategy for AI-supported SME development in the Danube Region in the key application areas(EN)
BrAIn Cooperation Network(EN)
Demo case development and implementation report in agro-food, manufacturing and health-care(EN)
Pilot tested solutions in agro-food, health-care industry and manufacturing(EN)
Policy strategy document(EN)
Website: https://interreg-danube.eu/projects/brain

Thematic information

Labour market and employment SME and entrepreneurship Knowledge and technology transfer

Priority: (VI-B_D_1) Priority 1 - A more competitive and smarter Danube Region

Priority specific objective: RSO1.1. Developing and enhancing research and innovation capacities and the uptake of advanced technologies

Priority policy objective (Interreg specific objective): PO1 A more competitive and smarter Europe by promoting innovative and smart economic transformation and regional ICT connectivity

Type of intervention: 012 Research and innovation activities in public research centres, higher education and centres of competence including networking (industrial research, experimental development, feasibility studies)

Partners (11)

Lead Partner: Pannon Gazdasági Hálózat Egyesület

Partner’s ID if not PIC: HU18984303

Department: PBN Szombathely

Address: Gesztenyfa u., 9027 Győr, Hungary

Department address: Zanati út , 9700 Szombathely, Hungary

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Business support organisation

Website: http://www.pbn.hu

Total budget: EUR 282 250.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 225 800.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 56 450.00

Contractors:

Name: Engineered Arts Limited
VAT registration or tax identification number: GB677990757

Institutul de Dezvoltare a Societății Informaționale

Name: Institutul de Dezvoltare a Societății Informaționale

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 1008600032684

Address: Academiei, MD2028 Chisinau, Moldova

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Higher education and research organisations

Website: https://idsi.md/en/home

Total budget: EUR 58 700.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 46 960.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 11 740.00

Contractors:

Name: „BTS Pro” S.R.L
VAT registration or tax identification number: 1008600061565 / 0505766
Name: Deukalion SRL
VAT registration or tax identification number: 1003600006488

Organizarea pentru Dezvoltarea Antreprenoriatului

Name: Organizarea pentru Dezvoltarea Antreprenoriatului

Department: Project Development and International Cooperation Department

Partner’s ID if not PIC: N.a.

Address: Blvd. Ștefan cel Mare, MD-2012 Chișinău, Moldova

Department address: Blvd. Ștefan cel Mare, MD 2012 Chisinau, Moldova

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Business support organisation

Website: http://www.oda.md

Total budget: EUR 62 200.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 49 760.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 12 440.00

Contractors:

Name: FlagMAN-D SRL
VAT registration or tax identification number: 0507564/1008600029969
Name: BTS PRO SRL
VAT registration or tax identification number: 0505766/1008600061565

ELEKTROTEHNICKI FAKULTET UNIVERZITET U BEOGRADU

Name: ELEKTROTEHNICKI FAKULTET UNIVERZITET U BEOGRADU

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 100206130

Address: Bulevar kralja Aleksandra, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia

Department address: Bulevar kralja Aleksandra, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Higher education and research organisations

Website: https://www.etf.bg.ac.rs/en

Total budget: EUR 130 000.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 104 000.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 26 000.00

Contractors:

Name: PRODUCTION POOL DOO UMA
VAT registration or tax identification number: 108553309

XR Institute s.r.o.

Name: XR Institute s.r.o.

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 04999746

Address: Koterovská, 32600 Pilsen, Czech Republic

Legal status: private

Organisation type: SME

Website: https://xr-institute.cz

Total budget: EUR 185 040.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 148 032.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 37 008.00

PROUNION

Name: PROUNION

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 2023058422

Address: Radlinského, 949 01 Nitra, Slovakia

Legal status: public

Organisation type: SME

Website: http://prounion.sk

Total budget: EUR 185 000.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 148 000.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 37 000.00

Agenția pentru Dezvoltare Regională Vest

Name: Agenția pentru Dezvoltare Regională Vest

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 11354496

Address: Gheorghe Lazăr, 300080 Timișoara, Romania

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Interest groups including NGOs

Website: http://www.adrvest.ro

Total budget: EUR 185 000.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 148 000.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 37 000.00

Фондация Клъстер информационни и комуникационни технологии

Name: Фондация Клъстер информационни и комуникационни технологии

Partner’s ID if not PIC: BG131374292

Address: 111zh, Tsarigradsko shosse blv., 1784 Sofia, Bulgaria

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Business support organisation

Website: http://www.ictcluster.bg

Total budget: EUR 185 000.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 148 000.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 37 000.00

Steinbeis 2i GmbH

Name: Steinbeis 2i GmbH

Partner’s ID if not PIC: DE308838809

Address: Leuschnerstraße, 70176 Stuttgart, Germany

Legal status: private

Organisation type: Business support organisation

Website: http://www.steinbeis-europa.de

Total budget: EUR 186 750.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 149 400.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 37 350.00

ITC – Inovacijsko Tehnološki Grozd Murska Sobota

Name: ITC – Inovacijsko Tehnološki Grozd Murska Sobota

Partner’s ID if not PIC: SI51545535

Address: Lendavska Ulica, 9000 Murska Sobota, Slovenia

Legal status: private

Organisation type: Business support organisation

Website: https://itc-cluster.com

Total budget: EUR 235 000.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 188 000.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 47 000.00

Contractors:

Name: Termodron d.o.o.
VAT registration or tax identification number: SI27024067

Business Upper Austria – OÖ Wirtschaftsagentur GmbH

Name: Business Upper Austria – OÖ Wirtschaftsagentur GmbH

Department: Mechatronics Cluster

Partner’s ID if not PIC: ATU37311609

Address: Hafenstrasse, 4020 Linz, Austria

Department address: Hafenstraße, 4020 Linz, Austria

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Business support organisation

Website: https://www.biz-up.at

Total budget: EUR 180 050.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 144 040.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 36 010.00

Partners map

Partners and Projects info

Information Society Development Institute

BRinging Artificial INtelligence towards SMEs

Partners and Projects info

Organization for Entrepreneurship Development

BRinging Artificial INtelligence towards SMEs

Partners and Projects info

University of Belgrade - School of Electrical Engineering

BRinging Artificial INtelligence towards SMEs

Partners and Projects info

XR Institute Ltd.

BRinging Artificial INtelligence towards SMEs

Partners and Projects info

PROUNION

BRinging Artificial INtelligence towards SMEs

Partners and Projects info

West Regional Development Agency

BRinging Artificial INtelligence towards SMEs

Partners and Projects info

Foundation Cluster Information and Communication Technologies

BRinging Artificial INtelligence towards SMEs

Partners and Projects info

Steinbeis 2i GmbH

BRinging Artificial INtelligence towards SMEs

Partners and Projects info

ITC – Innovation Technology Cluster Murska Sobota

BRinging Artificial INtelligence towards SMEs

Partners and Projects info

Pannon Gazdasági Hálózat Egyesület

BRinging Artificial INtelligence towards SMEs

Partners and Projects info

Business Upper Austria

BRinging Artificial INtelligence towards SMEs

Lead partner

Project partner

Summary

Project name (EN): BRinging Artificial INtelligence towards SMEs

Project acronym: BrAIn

Project ID: DRP0200025

Project start date: 2024-01-01

Project end date: 2026-06-30

Project status: ongoing

Relevant linked projects:

DanubePeerChains
Danube Region Programme (EN) | The main objective of DanubePeerChains, was to empower Labour market Support Organizations (LSO) and Business Support Organizations (BSO) together with their target groups and further local high-potentials (entrepreneurs, SME employees, digitalization specialists) in a joint capacity building and training approach to upskill to high-qualified jobs in the Danube region and to gain a sustainable recognition as PEER-level collaboration partners in innovative transnational value chains.
The goal was to develop a training programme for entrepreneurs and SME employees to enhance their know-how in digitalization topics and to become digitalization specialists. The online training (90 people completed) that was developed within this project had a clear focus on the value chain aspect in different branches and economies.
Relevant online training topics for BrAIn project were:
-Sustainability challenges and opportunities in the wood and furniture industry
-Enhancing competitiveness through transnational value chains
-The importance of digital lean and augmented reality technology for a successful digital transition of businesses and education
-Additive manufacturing (EN), D-care
Danube Region Programme (EN) | D-CARE action is focused on establishing a transnational cooperation network that design Innovative Learning Environments for older adults 55+, in 9 Danube regions, in order to facilitate the creation, validation and deployment of smart care services in the context of smart care labs.
The project scope is totally relevant for BrAIn project, especially in the sector of health-care.
BrAIn could utilize the knowledge gained in D-care in different topics:
- D-care e-leraning platform
- D-care innovation programme
- Smart care Labs
(EN), SmartFactoryHub
Danube Region Programme (EN) | The main objective of the Smart Factory HUB project is to improve framework conditions for innovation in the area of “smart factory”.
Therefore, the project’s goal is to develop R&D and business policy conditions for transnational cooperation in the manufacturing industry.
Relevant activities for BrAIn are:
- E-learning platform
- SFH cooperation platform (EN), Danube S3 Cluster
Danube Region Programme (EN) | The Danube S3 Cluster project aim was to foster transnational cluster cooperation in the agro-Food sector, enhance innovation management knowledge and skills of cluster managers and members but also to leverage the innovation-driven entrepreneurial ecosystem in the Danube area by developing three training sessions. The training sessions were addressed to cluster managers and members that had the potential to go international and scale up to further improve cluster cooperation in the Danube area and SMEs’ competitiveness. The training contains 3 modules that had been delivered in total for 313 participants during 9 training sessions.
Modules:
1) Innovation Management Dimensions (prepared by S2i)
2) Business Models for Self-Sustainable Clusters (prepared by PBN)
3) Business Internationalization and Scale-up (prepared by S2i)
DanubeS3 Cluster provides valuable know-how on methodology and ecosystem for BrAIn purposes in the agro-food topic.
ITC (as DIH AGRIFOOD legal representative) has been responsible to transfer knowledge on establishing and interconnecting DIHs in the Danube region, while building a strong interconnected and all-inclusive Danube DIH eco-system, focused in agrifood sector. ITC will use the knowledge, tools and experience in order to expand the DIH network and its assets (technology providers, technology users) and to efficiently implement transnational Interreg projects such as BrAIn (using Multi-Actor Approach).
(EN), 4STEPS
Central Europe Programme
(EN) | In the framework of the 4STEPS (April 2019- 2022 March), on project level 350 companies from 7 countries conducted a comprehensive analysis, through a check-up tool, focused on both their needs and their level of adaptation to Industry4.0. themes, so as to understand which interventions to implement. The companies were also considered in different international cluster according to the RIS3 sectors and the needs of the companies of the same RIS3 sectors. These methodologies supported the development of a catalogue made available to companies so that they can find a correlation between their need of innovation and the contents of Industry 4.0 and their functional requirements; this catalogue collected the possible services provided by Partners in relation with Industry 4.0..
These functional analysis led to the definition of a Technology Maturity Level Index to be applied to SME and evaluating their level of application of concepts and methodologies of Industry 4.0 out of the A.T.1.2.
Following the country and transnational mapping reports of the analysis conclusions, regional workshops were organised in every country to different target groups (general public; labour force; education) to acquire I4.0 digital skills and knowledge.
(EN), CEUP 2030
Central Europe Programme (EN) | Within the CEUP 2030 (2020 March- 2022 April) 4 working groups were established in connection with 4 thematic areas, and one of them was dedicated to AI. Thematic workshops were organised by every (10) Partner within AI topic. Apart from the workshops, impact radar for emerging AI technologies and trends were also prepared which results are highly important for BrAIn project purposes. Flagship projects were defined and implemented by Partners regarding AI, and based on the participants of these flagships an AI-related network was also presented. For the development of all flagships, PPs involved triple-helix representatives to give concreteness to the specific actions and activities to be developed. The commitment of both industrial and academic stakeholders is needed to bring innovation in real industrial applicative use-cases, while policy makers could collect the current barriers and develop supporting tools within the future strategic programs. (EN), S3HubsinCE
Central Europe Programme (EN) | Within the S3HubsinCE project (2019 March- 2022 February) similarly to the CEUP 2030 project, working groups (aka: Navigation Crews) were established and most of the working groups had AI relevance (e.g: Data analytics, machine vision, predictive maintenance; Industrial IOT,). An institutional needs assessment was also carried out regarding institutions’ needs in digitalisation topics including their commitment in the NC topics. PBN was responsible for this transnational analysis, where all project partners’ institutions’ replies (10*10= 100 replies all together) were analysed. Transnational Cooperation Actions were also created including at least two of the Navigation Crew topics. All Partners have selected 5 Champions (institutions) and their innovative solutions and value-added benefits were summarised. (This task, the analysis was also coordinated/prepared by PBN). (EN), AI REDGIO
Horizon Europe (EN) | With the aim of coordinating and the evolution of manufacturing toward Industry 5.0, of cloud AI technologies to AI-at-the-Edge, of Horizon2020 to Horizon Europe, AI REDGIO 5.0 maintains the momentum of AI technology adoption in Manufacturing SMEs. The overall objective of AI REDGIO 5.0 project is to enable competitive AI-at-the-Edge digital transformation of Industry 5.0 Manufacturing SMEs
BRAIN connection: good examples in digital manufacturing and AI applications:
-The transition towards Industry 5.0, where manufacturing will be based on active human-robot collaboration;
-The implementation of new technologies along the edge-to-cloud continuum for digital sovereignty of machines;
-The support of EU open-source hardware and software reference implementations for trustworthy, preserving EU ethical principles;
-The interconnection with the EDIH network, AI TEF (Testing and Experimentation Facilities) nodes and the embryonic Data Spaces deployments, favouring collaboration corridors and cross-border SME-to-SME experimentations.
Open calls:
With the aim of expanding the AI REDGIO 5.0 ecosystem, the project foresees two different Open Calls to finance 20 additional experiments. This represents a huge opportunity for SMEs and small mid-caps to participate in the process of Digital Transformation of Industry 5.0, receiving complementary funding for the full implementation of their experiments.
(EN), SMERF
Central Europe Programme
(EN) | SMERF (2023-2026) focuses on supporting low-tech and medium-tech SMEs' transition towards SMERF: SME Ready for the Future and providing new services to Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) and Innomediaries (entities either supporting SMEs or closely cooperating with SMEs on innovations development) that will enhance their competences and equally support SMEs. The project provides a self-assessment tool for small and medium sized enterprises, realizes trainings and pilot projects along the following 4 focus areas of the consortium:
1) Innovation culture,
2) Digital manufacturing,
3) Open innovation 2.0 & sharing economy,
4) Green & circular economy & sustainability
The result of these activities could be capitalized by BrAIn project, especially the training in Digital manufacturing and the SME self-assessment tool.
(EN), EDIH AI5Production (EN) | In this recently started EDIH in Austria, the main players in the field of AI join forces to support the local economy with introducing AI-based solutions. They additionally offer support to SME and mid-caps in the fields of Digital Design, Digital Production, and Cyber Security.
BrAIn could benefit from mutual exchange of experiences and best practice approaches with the EDIH.
(EN), DIH2
Horizon Europe (EN) | Some of DIH2 project activities can be capitalized by BRAIN project activities like:
Setting up the DIH² Marketplace which is functioning as one-stop-shop for SMEs to access essential services for digital transformation including business modelling, technical support, access to skills and finance. The WP aims to set up the networking platform and central services which will be provided to the members of the Network. The networking platform will be a Marketplace with an Open Integration Framework allowing network members (and newcomers) to offer their services and acquire the services of other members.
Also Setting up the DIH² Network can be beneficiary for BRAIN. This activity aims to create a Community of Practices (CoP) composed of 26 Nodes, each one with its own methodology and experience on providing services to SMEs in their ecosystem. DIH² has to define a common way for addressing the market (key to build the DIH² brand) and the procedure for internally delivering of such as cross-border services. Additionally strategic alliances have to be established with key stakeholders in Robotics and Manufacturing field.
(EN), L4MS
Horizon Europe
(EN) | In L4MS project Development of L4MS marketplace activity can be valuable to study from BRAIN project point of view. It us about to develop the services to support the L4MS ecosystem which provide fast and easy access to the technology, finance and regional support for the manufacturing SMEs: The marketplace tools and the helpdesk support. It will develop and deploy the marketplace software platform and populate it with the services provided by the network of CCs and set up it as an efficient brokerage tool for technology suppliers and end-users.
Also Pilot Application experiments scale up activity can be capitalized in Brain project. In this activity a cutting edge commercialization plan will be defined addressing three main aspects: (i) commercial application for the first time user of the technology with cost-benefit and ROI analysis, (ii) new technology development with guidelines to identify potential users / user groups of the technology, their capabilities and needs; (iii) Assessing technologies’ characteristics in relation for their adoption, commercialization.
(EN), DIH-HERO
Horizon Europe (EN) | ETF is a core partner in the DIH-HERO project and network of the leading pan-European network of Digital Innovation Hubs in Healthcare Robotics. ETF was a leading partner in the deployment of robotics innovation in healthcare. BrAIn will benefit from the experience in cross-border support of healthcare innovations (including horizontal issues of ethical approvals and reimbursement schemes) and methodology on deploying healthcare innovations support created within DIH-HERO through the innovation coaches network (https://dih-hero.eu/innovation-coaches/) - BrAIn involves ETF as a node in South-East Europe. (EN), PLOUTUS
Horizon Europe (EN) | PLOUTOS – Data driven sustainable agrifood value chains (RUR-06-2020 - Innovative agrifood value chains: boosting sustainability-oriented competitiveness) https://ploutos-h2020.eu/
ITC is managing the pilot in Slovenia, focused on applying soil-passport approach and precision farming technologies to increase soil health and promote sustainable farming practices. ITC will use knowledge and technologies gathered through piloting activities (37 precision fertilisation actions applied), concrete results achieved with farmers (30% decrease in use of fertilisers) and policy recommendations prepared during execution of Ploutos (2 DEMO day events with farmers, advisory service and policy actors, several policy recommendation meetings with policy actors).
(EN), Green.Dat.AI
Horizon Europe (EN) | Green.Dat.AI - Energy-efficient AI-ready Data Spaces (HORIZON-CL4-2021-DATA-01-03 - Technologies for data management (AI, Data and Robotics Partnership))
ITC is responsible for the coordination and implementation of two pilots in Slovenia: (1) Smart farming optimisation through digital twins and (2) Smart water management. Both of them are focused on using datasets from different data sources (IoT, EO, advisory services, weather stations, public data, …) and applying AI models for advanced Decision Support Systems. ITC will use knowledge about AI modelling, datasets from Slovenian pilots and DIH AGRIFOOD Data space infrastructure to support BrAIn project.
(EN), DEMETER
Horizon Europe (EN) | DEMETER - Building an Interoperable, Data-Driven, Innovative and Sustainable European Agri-Food Sector (DT-ICT-08-2019 Agricultural digital integration platforms) https://h2020-demeter.eu/
ITC is responsible for implementing and testing IoT technologies at Slovenian farmers: orchards, vineyards and poultry farms. The implementation is backed up by the DIH network and services, making pilot implementations available for demonstrations in the wider pan-European community. ITC will use DEMETER IoT equipment and data sources to feed potential new AI models.
(EN), BRIDGES
Interreg Europe Programme
(EN) | The focus of this interregional cooperation was on how to increase regional resilience and maintain the interregionality and complementarity options at the same time by using value chain mapping method.
BRIDGES consortium developed a methodology for value chain mapping which analyses value chains and thus identified the involved regions' peaks and walleys, strengths and regional capabilities for in-shoring & re-shoring as well as for interregional complementarities in the specially selected domains. As project partner PBN elaborated the detailed value chain mapping on healthcare related manufacturing with special focus on rehabilitation. PBN elaborated a detailed list of healthcare related local project proposals and analysed the locally, nationally and internationally available skills, knowledge and technological background to them. This action was actively connected to the work plan of the local policy instrument Szombathely2030 which has the aim to contribute to the solid focus change of the regions’ industry on base of the long tradition of automotive and metal industry towards health industry by focusing on providing new products and services in rehabilitation domain with the application of industry 4.0 solutions, and by accepting the challenges of digitalization.
BrAIn project could utilize the up-to-date information on health care industry and proposed local initiatives and could capitalize them during the demo case preparation and the training carried out in health topic.
(EN), BOWI
Horizon Europe (EN) | H2020 BOWI (Boosting Widening Digital Innovation Hubs) project, where ETF participated as a widening DIH. List of widening DIHs comprises many partners from Danube region (https://bowi-network.eu/dih-network/). Each of DIHs brings its connections to SMEs and experience in implementing AI, robotics, and IoT in their regional SMEs and brings connectivity with all stakeholders from the quadruple helix. BOWI methodology for structured collaboration between DIHs - "collaboration corridors" will be exploited in BrAIn. (EN)

Total budget/expenditure: EUR 1 874 990.00

Total EU funding (amount): EUR 1 499 992.00

Total EU funding (co-financing rate): 80.00%

Co-financing sources:

Investments, deliverables, policy contributions

(bullets are inserted automatically and may be incorrectly placed)

Deliverables:

Joint analysis of the regional innovation ecosystems
BrAIn Training Handbook
BrAIn Training module for AI solutions in Health -care
BrAIn Training module for AI solutions in Manufacturing
BrAIn Training module for AI solutions in Agro-food
BrAIn Online training platform
BrAIn Trainer Network
BrAIn Transnational Working HUB
Report on the local stakeholder meetings
Report on the BrAIn transnational trainings
Press release about the transantional trainings
Report of the BrAIn local trainings
Digital campaign to promote local trainings
BrAIn knowledge transfer report with territorial relevance
Interactive BrAIn Good Practise catalogue
Report on BrAIn Good Practices
Methodology of demo cases
Report on the implementation of the transnational demo case in agro-food
Report on the implementation of the transnational demo case in manufacturing
Report on the implementation of the transnational demo case in health-care
Setting up the evaluator network
Peer review report of demo cases
Sustainability strategy of BrAIn demo cases
Promotion video about the demo cases
BrAIn Library
E-publication about the BrAIn Library
BrAIn policy recommendation document
Report about the capitalization event with EUSDR PA8
Report about the start-up competition
Report about the on the spot knowledge exchange workshops
Capitalization report

Contribution to wider strategies and policies:

EuropeanGreenDeal 2000 ch
Overall, the Brain project focuses with AI adoption, skills upgrading, and developing AI-driven applications for SMEs in different industries within the DR aligns with the goals and objectives of the EU Green Deal. However, Green Deal does not specifically outline the role of AI for SMEs, but both initiatives seek to foster innovation, increase competitiveness, and promote sustainable practices in the industry while leveraging the potential of digitalization and AI technologies. There are several fields that will be relevant:
Energy efficiency: Manufacturing and agro-food have a direct goal to increase energy efficiency and one of the horizontal challenge which project tries to tackle is energy supply. By implementing AI technologies SMEs can optimize their energy consumption, identify inefficiencies, and achieve energy efficiency targets set by the Green Deal.
Predictive maintenance: BrAIn seeks to apply AI in i4.0 and i5.0 processes, including predictive maintenance. By analyzing sensor data and identifying patterns, AI can enable SMEs to proactively address maintenance needs, reduce downtime, and optimize resource usage. This aligns with the objective of resource efficiency and sustainability promoted by the Green Deal.
Resource optimization: The project emphasizes the importance of optimizing resource usage, such as raw materials, and energy management. By leveraging AI algorithms to analyze production data, SMEs can identify opportunities to minimize resource waste and improve production processes, contributing to the circular economy principles advocated by the Green Deal.
Supply chain sustainability: Supply chain challenges is in focus of BrAIn project, demo cases try to find new solutions and make supply chain more sustainable.
Farm2Fork strategy as horizontal strategy as an integrated part of Green Deal and activities in agro-food sector directly connected to the goals of the strategy.
TerritorialAgenda2030 Overall, both the Agenda and the BrAIn project focus on promoting balanced and harmonious territorial development, acknowledging the role of digitalization and disruptive technologies, addressing common challenges, leveraging territorial diversity and potential, and promoting integration beyond borders to foster economic and social development. The main points of alignment:
Importance of digitalization and disruptive technologies: The Agenda (29) highlights the significance of digitalization and disruptive technologies in the era of Industry 4.0 and i5.0, acknowledging the risks of economic concentration and territorial inequalities. Similarly, BrAIn project emphasizes the transformative impact of digitalization in the Danube Region (DR) and aims to familiarize SMEs with the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) and i4.0 and i5.0 processes.
Influence of exogenous developments: The Agenda (32) recognizes that exogenous developments, such as global trends and the COVID-19 pandemic, have unequal impacts on different territories. Likewise, BrAIn acknowledges that the DR countries face common challenges, and aims to address them through transnational interventions, including the adoption of new technologies.
Territorial diversity and development potential: In paragraph (46) it underlines the diversity of Europe's territories and highlights their development potential. Similarly, the BrAIn project describes the DR as a heterogeneous region with diverse characteristics and aims to contribute to its competitiveness by leveraging the potential of AI, innovation.
Integration beyond borders: The Agenda emphasizes the importance of integration beyond borders to leverage economic and social forces. Parallelly, the BrAIn project focuses on the need for harmonized support and transnational uptake of technologies, through collaboration and knowledge transfer to foster the competitiveness of SMEs in the DR.
Other EIT Manufacturing:
Considering, that manufacturing and AI-related manufacturing technologies are key enablers in the economies along Danube Regions and even in the targeted thematic value chains in BrAIn, EIT Manufacturing’s key strategic objectives are in harmony. Overall, both the BrAIn project and EIT Manufacturing share a common focus on enhancing the competitiveness of SMEs, promoting digitalization and AI adoption, fostering transnational collaboration, overcoming value chain bottlenecks, and pursuing sustainable manufacturing practices. While EIT Manufacturing operates at a broader European scale, the BrAIn project's goals within the Danube Region align with these objectives. Specifically, BrAIn contributes to
Powerful Manufacturing Innovation Ecosystem by putting the emphasis on DR by familiarizing them with the relevance and potential of AI enabling technologies and by
Adding value through an upskilled workforce: equipping the main stakeholders with the necessary skills to follow i5.0, to support a sustainable, human-centric & resilient industry in the DR, the project will contribute to skilled, employed workforces.
EUStrategyDanubeRegion Project actions directly support the objectives of the EUSDR Priority Area 8 by contributing to the competitiveness of enterprises in the DR.
Partnership aims to connect to the proposed Actions of the PA 8 by stressing the cooperation of the single working groups: Innovation and Technology Transfer, Artificial Intelligence, Cluster and Regional Development, Digital Danube and Female Entrepreneurship. By composing the policy level recommendation, BrAIn project aims to improve framework conditions for SMEs in areas where competitive infrastructure is missing and supporting enterprises through high performing training and qualification schemes. Referring the project partnership, most of the partners are leading a WG in PA8 or are members of any of these initiatives, so the knowledge transfer is also supported with their direct involvement of the Priority Area 8. Furthermore, an active conversation supported the BrAIn project elaboration between the LA and the Priority Area 8 coordinators in order to support the identified goals on a proper way.
The project directly helps to reduce the socio-economic challenge identified in EUSDR. The project is not just connected to PA 8 but also supporting the goals of PA 7 – “To develop the knowledge society” and PA9 –“people and skills” as through the project activities the R&D potential of the Danube region is supported. With the project training concept partners also support the goal “Contribution to improved educational outcomes and relevant skills and competences in the Danube Region...".
EUSDR PA8 already highlighted the project proposal as a possible Flagship project. The proposal is already registered at Danube Strategy Flagships based on the request of PA8 Leaders which is a great possibility to ensure the durability the project result and also supports the embedding strategy of the Danube Strategy Point. Project could be also presented at the Danube Strategy Embedding Week in the future.
Other EIT Health
EIT Health facilitates innovative solutions which will strengthen healthcare systems, promoting better health of citizens, and contribute to a sustainable health economy in Europe. To maximise societal impact, the work is strategically focused across flagship initiatives which address underlying drivers of health.
While EIT Health operates at a broader European scale, the BrAIn project's goals within the Danube Region align with these objectives.
The demo case in health care is a direct input for EIT Health initiative and it is a concrete input for one of the focus areas in EIT Health, namely for the supporting the deployment of Important Project of Common European Interest in Health (IPCEI) to address market failures
Other EIT digital
EIT Digital activities are concentrated in strategic areas that are essential for European digital sovereignty: digital tech, digital wellbeing, digital cities, digital industry and digital finance. Digital tech addresses innovation in core digital technologies key for Europe, being artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and next generation networks.
While EIT Digital operates at a broader European scale, the BrAIn project's goals within the Danube Region align with these objectives.
For the initiative the training activities within BrAIn project could serve as an example from the Danube region about knowledge transfer activities and also demo cases are good examples fro transnational cooperation.
Other EIT Food
EIT Food is a European Knowledge and Innovation Community (KIC), part of the EIT, which was set up to transform our food ecosystem. By connecting consumers with businesses, start-ups, researchers and students from around Europe, EIT Food supports innovative and economically sustainable initiatives which improve health, access to quality food, and environment.
While EIT Food operates at a broader European scale, the BrAIn project's goals within the Danube Region align with these objectives.
In EIT Food, where ITC is a member, 6 innovation focus areas are delivered with a combination of industry, education and research partners to improve environmental and health outcomes by developing solutions in the most promising food innovation areas. They include protein diversification, circular food systems, digital traceability, sustainable agriculture, sustainable aquaculture and targeted nutrition. Agro-food demo case could be a direct input for the initiative
Other Serbia adopted the strategy of scientific and technological development of the Republic of Serbia for the period from 2021 to 2025, with the motto "Power of knowledge"The strategy also recognizes priority technologies in the fields of ICT and artificial intelligence; innovative industry and industry 4.0; as well as emerging technologies of strategic interest. Serbia was among the first in the region to adopt the Strategy for the Development of Artificial Intelligence in 2019, with first Action Plan for implementation of the Strategy. The general objective of the Strategy is the use of artificial intelligence in favor of economic growth, employment and improvement of the quality of life. Ethics and safety in the development of artificial intelligence should be ensured primarily with regard to the protection of personal data, the protection against discrimination when using machine learning, and the establishment of responsible artificial intelligence development in accordance with international ethical principles. The goal is to introduce prevention mechanisms that will allow for the responsible development of artificial intelligence and methods of verifying that systems based on machine learning are in compliance with the highest ethical and safety standards.
BrAIn project results will be a great output for Serbian AI strategy and the knowledge and development plans will help the future planning. Also Knowledge from teh strategy will be utilized in BrAIn project.
Other New European Bauhaus
The New European Bauhaus initiative connects the European Green Deal to our daily lives and living spaces. It calls on all Europeans to imagine and build together a sustainable and inclusive future that is beautiful for our eyes, minds, and souls.
In BrAIn demo cases cro-creation, human centric i5.0 approach promote an example which could be beneficial for the New European Bauhaus strategy. Health demo case supports the incresing of the quality of life, while manufacturing and agro-food demo cases are supporting green and digital challenges.

Deliverable (other than infrastructural investment) areas:

Slovenija (SI), Murska Sobota, Lendavska ulica, 5a, 9000
Magyarország (HU), Szombathely, Zanati, 32-36, 9700
Česko (CZ), Pilsen, Koterovská, 152, 32600

Programme Common Output Indicator:

RCO 084 - Pilot actions developed jointly and implemented in projects, Measurement unit:
RCO 116 - Jointly developed solutions, Measurement unit:
RCO 083 - Strategies and action plans jointly developed, Measurement unit:
RCO 087 - Organisations cooperating across borders, Measurement unit:

Programme Common Result Indicator:

RCR 104 - Solutions taken up or up-scaled by organisations, Measurement unit:
RCR 079 - Joint strategies and action plans taken up by organisations, Measurement unit:

Programme Result Indicator:

ISI - Organisations with increased institutional capacity due to their participation in cooperation activities across the borders, Measurement unit: No. of organisations

Project part of European Union Macro-Regional or Sea Basin Strategy: EUSDR

Information regarding the data in keep.eu on the programme financing this project

Financing programme

2021 - 2027 Interreg VI-B Danube

Latest month of project-partner-call data publication

2026-04

No. of projects in keep.eu / Total no. of projects (% of projects in keep.eu)

138 / 138 (100%)

No. of project partnerships in keep.eu / Total no. of project partnerships (% of project partnerships in keep.eu)

1 431 / 1 413 (101.27%)

Notes on the data

Languages

Contact Form

BRinging Artificial INtelligence towards SMEs

Description

Thematic information

Partners (11)

Partners map

Summary

Investments, deliverables, policy contributions

Information regarding the data in keep.eu on the programme financing this project

Disclaimer