Within the framework of the European BRIDGESMEs project, of which CEAGA is part, a call has been launched to select pilot SMEs that need to implement digital transformation solutions in their production processes. The selected SMEs will benefit from the different services offered by BRIDGESMEs to help them implement innovative projects and adopt new technologies.
Once they become part of the BRIDGESMEs program, their needs will be analyzed and they will be put in contact with a catalog of technology suppliers to generate opportunities for collaboration between supply and demand companies.
Specifically, the BRIDGESMEs support program includes the following benefits:
- Technical assistance (valued at €50,000): Preliminary diagnosis of technological needs and barriers and technological consulting for a period of one year.
- Business support: Assessment of the main innovation challenges in the company and roadmap for the implementation of innovative ideas through advanced technologies.
- Access to public and private financing: Support in identifying sources of financing to cover investment needs and adoption of advanced technologies.
- Training in new skills: 10 online training modules to address critical areas and reduce the existing knowledge gap related to the adoption of advanced technologies.
- Establishment of partnerships with technology providers: through participation in hackathons and matchmaking events where selected SMEs will be able to present their challenges and meet potential partners to find the most appropriate solution for their needs.
- Access to Industry 5.0 dissemination initiatives: BRIDGESMEs will launch other initiatives to promote the adoption of advanced technologies and the dissemination of Industry 5.0 best practices.
Interested companies must meet the following requirements:
- Be an SME.
- Manufacture a product or provide a service through specific industrial processes. Technology provider companies or startups are not eligible.
- Work for one or more of the five BRIDGESMEs ecosystems: (1) Mobility, Transport and Automotive; (2) Aerospace and Defense; (3) Cultural and Creative Industries; (4) Electronics and (5) Tourism.
- Be established in an EU Member State or in a country associated to the Horizon Europe program.
The application shall be submitted through the BRIDGESMEs website, by filling in an application form. The application period will remain open until October 14, 2024, at 5 p.m.