On 30 April 2025 , the Health and Digital Executive Agency (HaDEA) hosted a virtual info session on the newly launched call *DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-AC-08: European Digital Innovation Hubs – Associated Countries (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus) , * under the Digital Europe Programme .
The event provided stakeholders from academia, industry, public institutions, and research organisations an opportunity to learn more about the funding opportunities, the application process, and key requirements for submitting competitive proposals. Participants also engaged in live Q&A sessions aimed at clarifying eligibility criteria and submission procedures.
Two Strategic Objectives
The call is divided into two main topics, each targeting specific strategic goals:
1. DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-AC-08-COMPLETION-STEP: Completion of the initial EDIH Network
This part of the call aims to expand the existing network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs) by including entities from Bosnia and Herzegovina and Moldova . The objective is to enhance the overall performance and capacity of the EDIH network to address digitalisation needs at local, regional, national, and EU levels.
- Total Budget : €2 million
- Focus : Completing the pan-European coverage of the EDIH network
- Eligible countries : Bosnia and Herzegovina, Moldova
2. DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-AC-08-CONSOLIDATION-STEP: Consolidation of the EDIH Network with AI Focus
This topic seeks to strengthen the EDIH network by selecting new hubs from Seals of Excellence holders in four associated countries: Albania, North Macedonia, Türkiye, and Ukraine . These new EDIHs will have a particular emphasis on artificial intelligence (AI) , supporting the EU’s broader strategy to become a global leader in trustworthy AI.
- Total Budget : €9 million
- Focus : Reinforcing AI capabilities across the extended EDIH network
- Eligible countries : Albania, North Macedonia, Türkiye, Ukraine
What Was Covered in the Info Session?
Presentations delivered during the event included:
- Policy Context : Overview of the Digital Europe Programme and the role of EDIHs in bridging the digital divide across Europe.
- Legal Validation and Financial Capacity Assessment : Key steps applicants must follow to ensure compliance with funding rules.
- Strategic Technologies for Europe Platform (STEP) : Insights into how EDIHs can align their activities with priority technologies identified by STEP.
- Submitting a Successful Proposal via the Funding & Tenders Portal : Practical guidance on navigating the online submission system.
- Support with Proposal Preparation : Tips and resources available to help applicants develop high-quality proposals.
All presentation materials are now available online , offering a valuable resource for prospective applicants preparing their submissions.
Building a Pan-European Digital Ecosystem
The expansion and consolidation of the EDIH network represent a crucial step toward achieving a truly inclusive and geographically balanced European digital innovation ecosystem . By reinforcing AI capacities and extending coverage to associated countries, the EU aims to support SMEs, public authorities, and citizens in adopting advanced digital technologies.
“This call is not just about funding—it’s about empowering regions, building expertise, and ensuring that all parts of Europe can benefit from the digital transformation,” said a HaDEA representative during the session.
Next Steps
Interested applicants are encouraged to review the call documents and presentations on the Funding & Tenders Portal and begin assembling their consortia. The deadline for submission is expected to be announced shortly.
For more information and updates on this call and other Digital Europe Programme initiatives, visit the HaDEA website or contact HaDEA directly via the Funding & Tenders Portal.
