Call for Expressions of Interest in DigitMAK Services

DigitMAK – the European Digital Innovation Hub invites micro, small and medium-sized enterprises, small mid-caps and public-sector organisations in North Macedonia to express their interest in receiving digital transformation and artificial intelligence (AI) adoption services.

DigitMAK operates as a one-stop shop helping organisations assess their needs, test technologies before investing, develop digital skills and identify suitable financing opportunities.

Who can apply?

• micro, small and medium-sized enterprises – SMEs;
• small mid-caps;
• public-sector organisations, including eligible public enterprises, public institutions, municipalities and public-administration bodies;
• start-ups and scale-ups that qualify as SMEs or small mid-caps.

Particular focus

The call is open to eligible organisations from all sectors and all parts of the country. DigitMAK will place particular focus on organisations operating in underserved regions outside the capital, as well as organisations active in the following priority areas:

• smart agriculture and higher-value-added food;
• information and communication technologies;
• the electro-mechanical industry and Industry 4.0;
• sustainable materials and smart buildings.

What support does DigitMAK provide?

Cooperation will normally begin with:

• a meeting or organisational visit and a needs assessment;
• a Digital Maturity Assessment;
• preparation of a digitalisation and AI adoption roadmap and action plan.

1. Test Before Invest

• AI-enhanced digital upgrades;
• laboratory services, prototyping and testing;
• short-term pilots in controlled or real-life environments;
• support for the development and improvement of digital and AI products;
• access to relevant equipment, testing environments and expertise.

2. Skills and Training

• customised training programmes;
• access to online resources and e-learning;
• thematic workshops on digitalisation, AI, sustainability, innovation, the circular economy and access to finance;
• participation in thematic and Test Before Invest events.

3. Support to Find Investment

• individual investment advisory services;
• information and guidance on national, European, public and private financing opportunities;
• support in preparing grant and financing applications;
• connections with investors, financial institutions and potential partners;
• participation in investment events.

4. Innovation Ecosystem and Networking

• first-line AI Help Desk support;
• initial guidance on AI readiness, practical adoption and compliance;
• innovation audits and advanced sustainability assessments;
• workshops on technology transfer and digital innovation;
• networking events and connections with other European Digital Innovation Hubs, AI Factories, EuroHPC and other relevant European infrastructures.

How does the process work?

1. Submission of the Expression of Interest form.
2. Basic eligibility review and an initial discussion.
3. Needs assessment and, where applicable, a Digital Maturity Assessment.
4. Preparation of a proposed service package and cooperation plan.
5. Implementation and follow-up of the agreed activities.

Important information

Submitting an Expression of Interest does not constitute automatic approval for a service. The type, scope and timing of support will depend on the organisation’s eligibility, assessed needs, available capacity and budget, as well as the applicable programme and State aid rules.

This is a call for access to DigitMAK services and does not constitute a call for the award of direct cash grants.

EXPRESS INTEREST