BOWI Corridor: Digital Experiments in Robotics, AI, and Human Focus
The Challenge
Across Europe, many SMEs struggle to adopt advanced digital technologies like AI, AR, and computer vision due to limited internal capabilities and lack of access to affordable, validated solutions.
The gap is even wider in less digitally mature regions, where innovation support services are fragmented and underdeveloped. Bridging this divide requires a practical, scalable model that supports both tech providers and SME adopters.
Beneficiary
Manufacturing SMEs in Romania, particularly in the Brașov, Miercurea Ciuc, and Cluj.
These SMEs were selected for their openness to innovation and readiness to integrate advanced technologies.
Delivered by
Iceberg+ (Romania), in partnership with TNO (Netherlands), under the umbrella of the BOWI project – a Horizon 2020 initiative supporting cross-regional collaboration through Digital Innovation Hubs (DIHs).
The
Solution
The BOWI Corridor piloted a collaborative framework for cross-border tech adoption by:
- Selecting 4 high-potential deep tech solutions (ARBIRA, MIDEMPLAN, VIA, EYESENSE)
- Facilitating end-to-end deployment of these solutions with regional SMEs
- Providing local mentorship, DIH support, and capacity-building services
- Creating a model for transferring know-how from digitally mature to less mature regions
Each pilot addressed a different digital challenge: simulation of robotic systems, AI-driven forecasting, automated quality control, and attention tracking in operational settings.
The
Impact
Enabled 4 Romanian SMEs to test and validate cutting-edge technologies
Strengthened the local DIH ecosystem through practical experience and mentorship
Fostered international cooperation between Romanian and Dutch innovation stakeholders
Demonstrated a replicable model for supporting digital transition in regions with low digital intensity
The
Timeline
Initial phase
Technology scouting and matchmaking between solution providers and SMEs
Pilot phase
Deployment and real-environment testing of 4 technologies in selected SMEs
Consolidation
Evaluation of pilot results and dissemination of learnings across the BOWI network
The
Results
4 successful pilot implementations
Increased tech readiness among participating SMEs
Enhanced regional DIH capacity and stronger cross-border collaboration
Foundation laid for scaling this corridor model to other regions in Europe
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