

Mechatronics Cluster Drives AI Innovation for SMEs in Key Industries
Major Announcement
The Mechatronics Cluster is taking significant steps to revolutionize small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) through the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
We are pleased to share that the initial trend analyses are now available, providing valuable insights that continue to evolve. At a recent project meeting in Pilsen, these findings were further explored. A special thanks goes to Marek Bureš and Renáta Csabai for organizing such a productive and inspiring event.
🎯 Next steps: AI training sessions will soon be offered, specifically designed for companies operating in the Manufacturing, Agrifood, and Health sectors.
Stay connected for more updates as we continue advancing innovation in these key industries.
🔗 Follow us to stay informed about the latest developments.
Link: https://interreg-danube.eu/projects/brain

2nd Webinar “Innovation Exchange & Funding Opportunities for SMEs in the (micro) electronics industrial ecosystem”
Within the scope of the European project Silicon Eurocluster, the 2nd Webinar on “Innovation Exchange & Funding Opportunities for SMEs in the (micro) electronics industrial ecosystem” will take place on September 18, 2024.
This webinar is organized by TICE.PT Cluster within the scope of the Silicon Eurocluster project. ICT Cluster is a partner in the project.
This webinar will address new EC funding opportunities dedicated to Digital and Green transitions and detail European Innovation Council initiatives and opportunities on Business Acceleration.
PROGRAM (CET time zone)
10:30H | Open Session, Luis Miguel Silva, TICE.PT
10:35H | EUREKA – Cluster XECS Funding opportunities, Polina Pereira, ANI
10:55H | EU Funding opportunities for Green and Digital Transitions /
Horizon Europe Cluster 4 – Afonso Duarte, ANI
11:10H | Business Scale-up – EIC opportunities, Afonso Duarte, ANI
11:25H | Cascade Funding – Process & Opportunities, Laure Tassigny, Minalogic
11:30H | Q&A
11:40H | Closing Words, Luis Miguel Silva, TICE.PT
Link: https://bit.ly/46ssnxy

Unlocking Taiwan's Market: Expert Guidance and SME Experiences!
Don´t miss these webinars on the 22nd of October!
Explore the promising opportunities in Taiwan’s booming high-tech and microelectronics sectors! As a global leader in technology and a major producer of semiconductors, Taiwan offers immense potential. In our webinar, we’ll provide valuable insights on how to tap into this market, export your products to Taiwan, and build a strong presence in this innovative landscape. You’ll gain practical advice from a market expert and hear the success story of an SME already thriving in Taiwan.
Join this interactive session featuring a Q&A with expert Pascal Viaud, who will discuss the “Taiwanese Paradox” and their distinctive innovation strategy. He’ll guide you through the process of exporting to Taiwan or leveraging it as a gateway to global markets, highlighting new opportunities beyond the traditional ODM/OEM model, with a focus on partnerships and collaboration.
This event is organized by Silicon Saxony as part of the Eurocluster project, connecting industry professionals to help you expand into the Taiwanese market.
“Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.”
For more information check these links:
• Taiwan - https://lnkd.in/dcm8HJ3D
• US - https://lnkd.in/d8ZcpgB5

Webinar "Key sustainability and ESG challenges"


Покана за предоставяне на оферти за доставяне на техника по проект DanubeDNA
Във връзка с изпълнението на дейностите и постигането на целите на проекта, « Фондация Клъстер информационни и комуникационни технологии» отправя покана до всички заинтересовани лица за представяне на оферта за доставка на офис и комуникационна техника както следва:
Доставка на 3 броя лаптопи, видеоконферентна система за провеждане на онлайн специализирани обучения и мероприятия, и мултифункционален принтер.
Прогнозната максимална цена на доставката е 28 359 лева без ДДС

John Atanasoff Award – 2024 has started
On July 24, 2024, the annual competition for the John Atanasoff Award of the President of the Republic will start, named after the world-famous inventor of Bulgarian origin John Atanasoff - the creator of the first electronic digital computer with regenerative memory.
Since 2003 – the beginning of the initiative, the John Atanasoff Award has been awarded to young Bulgarian scientists and researchers in the field of computer science for their outstanding achievements worldwide.
Among the laureates of the Presidential Prize are heads of research centers of the world's leading computer science research institutes and multinational companies.
Participants in the competition in 2024 will compete for awards in the following categories:1. John Atanasoff Award of the President of the Republic of Bulgaria;
2. Two Diplomas "John Atanasoff – Students and Their Teachers" – the first for successes achieved during the year by a student-teacher team in the International Olympiads in Informatics and the second for successes achieved during the year by a student-teacher team in the Olympiads in Information Technology;
3. Diploma "John Atanasoff – a project with a high public contribution";
4.Diploma "John Atanasoff – Debut Breakthrough in the Field of Computer Technology";
5. Diploma "John Atanasoff – Inspirer and Creator of Talents". The winners of the John Atanasoff Award and Diplomas are determined by a jury composed of leading Bulgarian scientists and experts in the field of computer science.
The deadline for applying for the awards in the individual categories of the John Atanasoff Award initiative is September 11, 2024.
The rules for each of the categories and the necessary documents for participation in the competition are published on the website of the presidential institution.
📲 Additional information can be obtained by phone. 02/92 39 289 and 02/92 39 393, as well as by e-mail: nagradajohnatanasoff@president.bg .

Successful story of entrepreneurial collaboration and artistic innovation!
A Fascinating Tale of Arts and Crafts: The Journey of Two Visionary Entrepreneurs
We are thrilled to spotlight a remarkable story of entrepreneurial collaboration and artistic innovation, featuring Margarita Panayotova and Georgia Doetzer. Through the "Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs" program, these two dynamic women embarked on a transformative journey that opened new doors for their respective ventures.
Meet the Entrepreneurs:
New Entrepreneur:
- Name: Margarita Panayotova
- Country: Bulgaria
- Age: 25
- Company Name: Batcrafts
- Sector: Art Crafts
Host Entrepreneur:
- Name: Georgia Doetzer
- Country: Cyprus
- Age: 60
- Company Name: Rialto Cultural Center
- Sector: Performing Arts Theater
- Website: Rialto Cultural Center
The exchange, spanning from July 24, 2023, to October 24, 2023, was part of the "Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs" program, designed to facilitate the sharing of knowledge, skills, and ideas between budding and seasoned entrepreneurs.
A Synergistic Collaboration:
Margarita, an ambitious young entrepreneur from Bulgaria, and Georgia, a seasoned cultural center director from Cyprus, found common ground through their passion for the arts. The program provided Margarita with a unique opportunity to gain practical insights into her business plan, guided by Georgia's extensive experience in the performing arts sector.
- Margarita Panayotova: “Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs brought me on a transformative journey, allowing me to collaborate with a visionary entrepreneur, expand my business skills, and establish connections that will resonate throughout my entrepreneurial career.”
- Georgia Doetzer: “Participating in Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs sparked a vibrant collaboration. As the host entrepreneur, I had the privilege of mentoring a creative mind, blending sustainable art into our cultural events, and building a relationship that ensures ongoing creativity and positive impact.”
The Collaborative Process:
The collaboration kicked off with an in-depth discussion about Margarita’s business idea, target audience, and desired outcomes. Georgia provided valuable feedback, while Margarita offered fresh perspectives on Georgia’s current marketing activities. Together, they explored ways to promote Margarita’s products, emphasizing the importance of animal welfare—a cause close to Margarita’s heart.
This joint effort exemplifies how the exchange of knowledge and experience can lead to mutually beneficial outcomes. By combining new perspectives with established methods, Margarita and Georgia showcased the potential for inspiring results.
Skills and Benefits:
The project facilitated the development of a wide range of skills essential for entrepreneurial success:
- Event Coordination: Practical experience in planning, organizing, and executing events.
- Marketing Strategies: Insights into effective marketing techniques and product promotion.
- Product Development: Refinement of product development skills through collaborative efforts.
- Networking: Expansion of professional networks, connecting with key stakeholders.
- Leadership Skills: Cultivation of leadership qualities through active project management.
- Financial Management: Practical experience in budgeting, expense tracking, and resource allocation.
- Customer-Relationship Management: Building and maintaining strong connections with clients and partners.
- Project Management: Mastery of planning, execution, and evaluation from project inception to completion.
- Digital Marketing: Proficiency in leveraging online platforms for broader audience reach.
A Vision for the Future:
Imagine a dynamic fusion of creativity and compassion: online art exhibitions where Margarita’s captivating art meets Georgia’s expertly orchestrated events dedicated to animal welfare. These exhibitions could transcend borders, captivating global audiences and fostering support for noble causes while generating revenue for both organizations.
Stay tuned for more inspiring success stories from the world of business!

AIWeeder - the Bulgarian company that is financed under the Silicon Euroclusters project.
AIWeeder is a solar-powered autonomous weeding robot using AI for precision weed removal. Launching in 2025.

ICT Cluster is once again a partner in the SEETEST 2024 program!
The program for one of the most renowned software testing conferences – SEETEST 2024, has been announced. The event will take place on September 26-27 in Zagreb, Croatia, and will once again be in a hybrid format – both live and virtual.
This year, the organizers promise high-quality content. The program consists of four tracks over both days. On the first day, eight half-day tutorial lectures will be held, and the second day will continue with two keynote lectures, as well as 20 presentations on various topics, selected by the Program Committee.
You can check out the full program at: https://bit.ly/3xAKSD9
Tickets for SEETEST 2024 are currently discounted by 20% until July 15, and fewer than 50 in-person tickets remain available. Virtual tickets are unlimited. Reserve your spot at: https://bit.ly/4byZwsF

𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗣𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗼𝗱 𝗘𝘅𝘁𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗱 𝗨𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗹 𝗙𝘂𝗻𝗱𝘀 𝗥𝘂𝗻 𝗢𝘂𝘁!
𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗣𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗼𝗱 𝗘𝘅𝘁𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗱 𝗨𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗹 𝗙𝘂𝗻𝗱𝘀 𝗥𝘂𝗻 𝗢𝘂𝘁!
Application period for the Silicon Eurocluster's Green Financial Support program for Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs) in the European electronics sector will remain open until all funds are allocated!This innovative program is designed to drive the sustainable transformation of SMEs by providing substantial financial support. Each qualifying SME can receive €3,600 to collaborate with external experts who will guide them through their green transformation journey.
🌱 𝗘𝗺𝗽𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗦𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘀𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 A total of 25 SMEs will benefit from this initiative, aimed at fostering more sustainable business practices. With the application period extended until funds are exhausted, we encourage more SMEs to seize this opportunity and enhance their sustainability strategies. This is your chance to make a significant impact in areas such as:
Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy
Waste Management and Recycling
Circular Economy Practices
And much more!
🔗 For more details on the application process and to apply, visit our website: https://lnkd.in/dyEvPBsU
Join us in taking a significant step towards a greener, more digital economy. Don’t miss this ongoing opportunity to advance your company's sustainable transformation with our expert-supported program!

B2GreenHub Open Call 🌿
Embrace the Green Revolution: Join Our B2GreenHub Ecosystem Today!
Feeling the weight of impending sustainability regulations? You're not alone. With numerous companies across Europe and beyond striving to meet the stringent requirements of the EU's Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), it's understandable to feel a bit overwhelmed.
Our B2GreenHub ecosystem is here to support you! Picture us as your trusted ally, guiding you through the complexities of green regulations and embracing a holistic approach to your company's green transition. Join us today, and together, let's navigate this journey, transforming compliance challenges into opportunities for growth and leadership in sustainability.
Who are we?
We're a powerhouse alliance of 106 leading EU institutions, supported by a diverse team of 150+ business experts and 200+ technical wizards pooling our talents across 7 groundbreaking EU projects valued at an impressive EUR 14.8 million. From esteemed universities to vibrant research centers and private advisory and project writing firms, our network offers diverse expertise to support your green initiatives. Think of us as your one-stop-shop for all things green.
With our ecosystem, you'll tap into over 50 testing facilities and a wealth of 200+ technological solutions. Guiding you every step of the way are our dedicated key account managers, skilled in marketing, project proposal writing, market analysis, and B2B networking. And with our digital platform, B2GreenHub.eu, as your trusty companion, you'll breeze through your green transition with access to real-world case studies and detailed cost-benefit analyses. When you join our ecosystem, you're not just gaining access to resources; you're getting personalized support tailored to your unique needs.
Who are we inviting to join us?
We are inviting aspiring manufacturing companies looking to step out of the box and onto the green transition journey (startups, SMEs, and mid-caps) working in the following 7 sectors: Electronics; Food and beverage; Pharmaceutical and chemical; Metal; Plastics and rubber; Machinery and equipment; Building materials and furniture.
What is in it for you?
Join us on a journey towards sustainability, where selected companies from this open call will have the opportunity to embark on the green path with us. By joining our community, you'll enjoy a range of advantages, from increased production capacity, reduced business costs and risk, improved business predictability to improved product quality and accessibility to customers.
Picture this: you'll be assigned a dedicated key account manager who will serve as your guide through every step of your green transition journey. Need an expert assessment of your performance? We've got you covered. Looking to craft a strategic roadmap? We've got experts for that too. From advisory support in LCA analysis to access to top-notch testing facilities and even proposal writing assistance, we're here to provide the expertise you need to succeed. But we don't stop there. We'll work closely with you to develop a concrete action plan, outlining specific activities in collaboration with top EU experts from various fields. And as you progress, we'll conduct impact assessments and provide ongoing guidance to ensure you're on track towards sustainability.
Here's how to get started:
- Join our community by sharing your company information.
- Assess your company's readiness for digital and green initiatives and gain insights by comparing with peers in your sector.
- Receive personalized guidance and support from your chosen key account manager who will assist you in identifying, implementing, and scaling sustainable solutions via a tailored roadmap.
- Explore our services, including:
- support of top EU digital and green experts specializing in AI, blockchain, LCA analysis, carbon footprint reduction strategies, and more,
- access to state-of-the-art testing facilities and specialized equipment, access to the latest digital and green technology solutions,
- tap into funding opportunities and receive assistance in preparing project proposals,
- engage in experimentation and prototype development for green solutions to save costs and boost efficiency.
- Connect with a vast ecosystem of like-minded companies, experts, facilitators, and policymakers through our platform, B2GreenHub.eu, currently under development.
- Stay at the forefront of innovation and best practices, exchanging experiences and insights with industry leaders in navigating green challenges.
- Evaluate the impact of your strategies and refine them to stay ahead in sustainability practices.
Still not convinced? Here's why we're your trusted green ally:
Mix 'n' Match: With a team of 150 facilitators from diverse backgrounds and 200 experienced green tech experts, we've got all the ingredients for a recipe for success.
Hold Your Hand: We won't just toss you into the deep green end; we'll be there every step of the way.
Holistic Approach: We're not just about saving the trees; we're about saving your wallet too. Because let's face it - circular is the new square.
Walking the Green Talk: Countless success stories and best practices speak volumes about our green track record of achieving results.
Ready to join us? Apply and start your green journey: https://lnkd.in/eiqXjyzC
Deadline:
Apply by sharing your company information before the deadline on 30 June 2025.
The call remains open until this date, with three intermediate cut-off dates:
- 1st cut-off: 31 July 2024,
- 2nd cut-off: 30 September 2024,
- 3rd cut-off: 30 June 2025, if places are still available.
Early applications are highly recommended, as they will be reviewed after each cut-off date for selection in pilot activities.

Join the ICT Cluster for the 6th Edition of "Partnerships for Horizon Europe" Event, Focused on Smart Cities!
The ICT Cluster is thrilled to announce its participation in the Call4Ideas - Partnerships for Horizon Europe initiative once again! Join us for the 6th edition of our online event, "Partnerships for Horizon Europe," which will shine a spotlight on smart cities topics.
If you're:
- Interested in Horizon Europe calls related to smart cities and communities,
- Building a consortium to present a proposal,
- Searching for partners to collaborate with,
REGISTER NOW: https://lnkd.in/eZ-SzCaH
Goals and Benefits for Participants:
✅ Create contacts and partnerships aimed at presenting proposals to the Horizon Europe calls.
✅ Receive information about trends, facts, R&D&I interests related to smart cities and communities.
✅ Publish and showcase your project ideas, competences, and expertise to all participants.
✅ Initiate and arrange promising pre-scheduled 1:1 meetings at the event.
✅ Generate and meet new contacts in a time and cost-efficient way, with common interests.
Dates: 📌 20th June - Presentation of keynote speakers, project ideas, and company competences. 📌 21st June - Panel of Municipalities and presentation of project ideas and company competences. 📌 June 20th – July 5th - Online brokerage event (1:1 meetings)
⌛ Deadline: 15/05/24
Be a Speaker! 📣 Register by 22nd May and stand a chance to be selected as one of the speakers. You'll have the opportunity to present your ideas and competences during one of the morning sessions.
Don't miss out on this opportunity to connect, collaborate, and contribute to the advancement of smart cities and communities through Horizon Europe!