AI & Gaming European Digital Innovation Hub (EDIH) in Croatia – Digital Europe Programme
Client
AI & Gaming EDIHClient Overview:
The AI & Gaming European Digital Innovation Hub (EDIH) in Croatia is a key initiative implemented under the Digital Europe Programme. Its mission is to drive the digital transformation of micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), as well as public entities across Croatia.
The hub serves as a central point for organizations to access technical expertise, testing environments, and funding opportunities. By focusing on AI and advanced digital tools, the EDIH helps local businesses and public bodies remain competitive in a rapidly evolving global market.
The Challenge:
While AI and advanced technologies are vital for growth, many Croatian SMEs face significant barriers to adoption. These organizations often lack the specialized expertise, testing infrastructure, and knowledge of complex EU funding mechanisms required to modernize. Without a structured support system, innovation remains slow and fragmented, preventing companies from attracting necessary R&D investment.
The project faced several operational hurdles:
- Complex Coordination: Managing a diverse consortium of partners.
- Strict Compliance: Meeting the rigorous standards of the Digital Europe Programme and local State Aid rules.
- Tight Deadlines: Navigating short windows for submission and preparation.
- Massive Outreach: Coordinating support for a very large and varied base of beneficiaries.
Our Approach:
Recognized as a relevant strategic partner, PJR (part of Civitta) joined the team to help reach more businesses and to lead the application process for future projects.
The project was structured into three core workstreams designed to simplify the transformation process for beneficiaries and ensure full compliance.
Phase I – Awareness and Educational Outreach
The team facilitated the Conference on Strategic Trends and Best Practices in EU Funds Financing, an annual hybrid event designed to bridge the knowledge gap regarding EU funding and digital trends.
Phase II – Onboarding Support
We implemented the Concierge Service, acting as the primary onboarding entry point to assess the potential value of services and define tailored development pathways for beneficiaries.
Phase III – Grant Management and Ecosystem Building
PJR (part of Civitta group) acted as an integrated extension of the EDIH, tracking grant statuses and keeping users informed of upcoming opportunities. The team provided Business Consulting and Expert Support, delivering 5-hour intensive sessions focused on investment attraction, project financing, and the market deployment of digital solutions. By managing social media content and networking events, we helped build a sustainable ecosystem where innovation can thrive long-term.
Services delivered:
- Concierge Service (Onboarding): A structured entry point to assess needs and define a tailored trajectory through available EDIH support mechanisms.
- Business Consulting & Expert Support: 5-hour sessions providing guidance on project financing, investment attraction, and preparing applications for EU calls.
- Strategic Financing Conference: An annual two-day hybrid event showcasing emerging trends, strategic updates, and practical examples of EU funding
- Ecosystem Networking: Collaborative events organized by all project partners to foster knowledge exchange and partnership development among stakeholders.
- Funding Identification: Helping SMEs find and secure potential financing and R&D sources.
Results & Impact:
The implementation of the EDIH has delivered measurable progress for the Croatian digital landscape:
- 500+ Beneficiaries Reached: Successfully supported over 500 SMEs and public sector bodies in accessing approximately 1,500 specialized services.
- Accelerated AI Adoption: Provided a clear, low-risk path for companies to integrate AI into their operations.
- Strengthened Digital Sovereignty: Contributed to Europe’s broader goal of digital independence by boosting local technical capabilities.
- Operational Efficiency: Streamlined the application process, allowing more organizations to benefit from EU funding without being overwhelmed by administrative complexity.
- High-Impact Delivery: PJR (part of Civitta) directly provided specialized expert services to over 80 entrepreneurs, ensuring the Hub met its ambitious performance targets.
Key Takeaways:
- Strategic Continuity: Success in service delivery has positioned the partnership as a lead for future EDIH applications, ensuring long-term digital growth.
- Strong Governance: Clear consortium management is the key to long-term project sustainability.
- Credible Service Design: A well-defined service portfolio builds trust with stakeholders and beneficiaries.
- User-Centric Focus: Designing programs specifically for the needs of SMEs increases overall community impact.
