As artificial intelligence reshapes economies and public services across Europe, the European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs) play a central role in turning EU ambitions on AI into practical, on-the-ground impact. Designed as one-stop-shops for digital transformation, EDIHs are a cornerstone of the European AI innovation ecosystem.
What is the role of EDIHs?
EDIHs exist to support companies—especially SMEs—and public sector organisations in adopting advanced digital technologies, including artificial intelligence. Their core mission is to ensure that innovation is accessible, trusted and regionally balanced, helping organisations move from experimentation to real-world deployment.
In practice, EDIHs act as regional gateways to Europe’s AI capabilities, connecting local actors to European knowledge, infrastructure and funding opportunities.
Key services provided by EDIHs
EDIHs offer a comprehensive portfolio of services structured around four main pillars:
- Test before invest – enabling organisations to experiment with AI technologies, data solutions and digital tools before committing significant resources.
- Skills and training – building digital and AI competences for businesses, public administrations and workforces.
- Support to find investment – guiding organisations towards national and EU funding instruments, investors and financial schemes.
- Innovation ecosystem and networking – linking companies, research organisations, startups and public authorities at regional, national and European levels.
Through these services, EDIHs help reduce the risks associated with AI adoption and accelerate innovation cycles.
EDIHs within the European AI ecosystem
EDIHs are not standalone actors. They are embedded in a wider European AI innovation ecosystem, working in close cooperation with:
- AI testing and experimentation facilities,
- research and technology organisations,
- AI Factories and data infrastructures,
- platforms such as the AI-on-Demand Platform.
This interconnected setup ensures that cutting-edge research, computing capacity and AI expertise reach end users across all regions of Europe—not only major innovation hubs.
Supporting trustworthy and human-centric AI
A defining feature of the European approach is its focus on trustworthy, ethical and human-centric AI. EDIHs actively support this vision by helping organisations align innovation with EU values, regulatory frameworks and societal needs, including transparency, accountability and sustainability.
Bringing AI closer to regions and citizens
By combining local presence with European coordination, EDIHs ensure that AI innovation benefits regions, communities and sectors across Europe. They bridge the gap between policy, technology and real-world application—turning strategy into action.
As Europe accelerates its digital and green transitions, European Digital Innovation Hubs stand at the core of this journey, empowering organisations to innovate with confidence and shaping a competitive, inclusive and responsible AI-driven future.
Learn more on the topic here.
