As the manufacturing sector becomes increasingly digital, the Alpine Space – once a manufacturing powerhouse – has lost some of its competitive edge. The EU-funded SMART-SPACE project is helping to reverse this trend by providing SMEs with innovative solutions, tools and support in the digitalisation of their processes.
Smart manufacturing for Alpine Space SMEs
- 21 May 2019
SMART-SPACE is fostering the development of a joint Alpine Space strategy and new approaches and solutions to specific Alpine Space challenges.
Manufacturing is the EU’s second-largest sector in terms of employment and turnover. But as Industry 4.0 ushers in an era of automation and innovation, some traditional manufacturing hubs risk being left behind. This is why the SMART-SPACE project is helping traditional manufacturers in the region embrace smart digital solutions and innovation.
Specifically, the project aims to foster the digital transformation of the Alpine Space’s manufacturing-related SMEs. The end goal is to position the region as an innovative hub for smart factories and Industry 4.0. Although the project is still a work-in-progress, organisers estimate that more than 300 companies will be involved.
Supporting SMEs
To accomplish its objectives, the project provides support to SMEs through panels, workshops and one-on-one mentorships. These workshops cover a wide range of topics, including the Internet of Things, Industry 4.0, digital technologies and platforms, digital sales and digital organisation.
Working with subject matter experts and using the knowledge and skills acquired during the training, the SMEs begin their digital transformation by evaluating their current state of readiness and identifying needs. Next, they develop and begin implementing a tailored digital transformation plan. The project organises regular networking events to foster transnational collaboration between Alpine Space SMEs.
To date, more than 30 thematic workshops and networking events have been held, providing support to over 205 SMEs.
A one-stop-shop
One of the key outcomes of the project thus far is the SMART-SPACE platform. This is a one-stop-shop for enhancing and supporting cooperation among Alpine Space manufacturing and innovation ecosystems. From the platform, users can access information on best practices for digitisation, along with a set of tools aimed at promoting innovation and competitiveness.
Highlights of the platform include:
dedicated communities where people can share events, training courses, tools and other interesting material;proposals for collaboration shared among innovation stakeholders according to their common topic of interests;a calendar of events aimed at increasing awareness, skills and competences, targeted according to the type of stakeholders and field of interest; anddiscussion forums where users can share ideas and provide feedbacks and opinions.The platform can be accessed via www.smartspacehub.eu/
Total investment and EU funding
Total investment for the project “SMART-SPACE - Smart manufacturing for Alpine Space SMEs” is EUR 2 381 926, with the EU’s European Regional Development Fund contributing EUR 2 024 637 through the “Alpine Space” Operational Programme for the 2014-2020 programming period. The investment falls under the priority “Energy Union and Climate”.