The Ministry of Digital Governance announced the completion of the tendering process by the European Commission for the creation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs).

The European Commission, in the framework of the Digital Europe 2021/27 programme, supports the development of an 'ΕΚΨΚ' network to strengthen the European Union's capabilities in the areas of:

• high performance computing (HPC)
• artificial intelligence (AI)
• cyber security
• the development of advanced digital skills
• the digital transformation of public administration and interoperability

Greece, as a member state, will participate in the EuropeanDigital Innovation Hubs with 4 Hubs, which will be funded by the European Commission through the Digital Europe Programme 2021-2027 (DEP). The amount will reach EUR 9.3 million over 3 years. Three more Nodes can participate in the Network without European funding. This is because they have received the EU's seal of excellence.The Greek Nodes of the Network will be active in technological fields such as:

• Artificial Intelligence
• Cyber security
• Internet of Things
• 5G
• big data analysis, blockchain Etc.

In combination with policy areas such as:

• health
• rural development
• eGovernment etc.

A total of 7 Greek hubs in the European innovation hub

The national funding for the Hubs has been secured by the new NSRF 2021/27 after the cooperation of the Secretary General of Public Investments and NSRF Dimitris Skalkos, the Special Secretary for the Management of European Regional Development Fund and Cohesion Fund Programs Georgios Zervos and the Secretary General of Digital Governance and Simplification of Procedures Leonidas Christopoulos.

It is recalled that 'ΕΚΨΚ' are partnerships of organisations with additional specialisations. They aim to support businesses, in particular SMEs and mid-caps. They should also support the public sector in their digital transformation.

The 'EKΨΚ' will help companies respond dynamically to digital challenges and become more competitive. By providing access to technical expertise and experimentation, as well as the possibility of 'test before invest', the NPCs will help companies toimprove their business/production processes, products or services using digital technologies.

In addition, they will provide innovation services, such as:

• Financing tips
• training and skills development needed for a successful digital transformation