The EU Horizon 2020 BOWI project has launched a call for mature digital innovation hubs (DIHs) to join the BOWI network and take part in technology transfer experiments as service providers. Each DIH will be able to share its expertise in supporting developing DIHs and SMEs during 10-month long experiments. For each experiment the mature hub is entitled for a voucher of up to € 15 000 depending on the scope of services provided.

The two-step selection process will be based on the applicant experiences and field of expertise as well as following a match-making process conducted to align the needs of developing hubs with the service offering of the mature ones. The 1st step of selection for the mature DIHs is to submit their application for joining the BOWI network until 1st of September 2021. BOWI project’s Selection Committee is reviewing received applications on a monthly basis, the selected applicants being invited to join the BOWI Network and publish their service offering on the dedicated Marketplace.

Further match-making process between the mature and 9 developing hubs selected under the Open Call will be carried out to forge the best matches based on technology and service expertise. The hub pairs will then work together to support SMEs/mid-caps in their technology refinement which will be carried out in the form of technology transfer experiments due in 2022. Each mature hub can support up to 4 experiments and is eligible to maximum funding amount of € 60 000. The mature hubs chosen as service providers will also receive media exposure, networking opportunities, access to new markets and collaboration opportunities.

Through the inter-hub collaborations BOWI aims to build, test, and improve hub cooperation models. Establishing the most appealing model will help to create cross-border collaboration corridors between DIHs. Thus, improving hub sustainability through experience and resource sharing and strengthening pan-European collaborations with the aim of evening out digital technology uptake throughout different regions.

Proposals can be submitted only by DIHs that are included in the European Catalogue of Digital Innovation Hubs as fully operational entities. Applicants must have proven expertise in at least one of the technology areas of IT security, cloud computing, robotics for manufacturing, IoT, cyber-physical and embedded systems, modelling and simulation or others.

Applicants should be ready to support developing hub located in another region with services in the areas of ecosystem building and networking, investment attraction, skills training and education, test-before-invest approaches, such as prototyping, concept validation, certification, and others.

For full list of eligibility conditions, criteria, and support actions, please visit BOWI project's website: bowi-network.eu.

Don't forget to join the new webinar and Q&A on 'how to boost your #DIH with BOWI'- focusing on funding opportunities for developing digital innovation hubs.

*Join us: 16th of February, 11:00 - 12:30 - More info: *