The Beginning of a Journey: European Digital Innovation Hubs and My PhD Research
Jan 8
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The launch of the European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs) marks a significant milestone in addressing the digital transformation challenges faced by Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and Public Sector Organisations (PSOs) across Europe. As a PhD researcher, I feel fortunate to begin my journey alongside the inception of these new transformative hubs. Being part of a consortium involved with the EDIHs provides a unique lens through which I can explore the dynamics of innovation ecosystems and their performance, a key focus of my doctoral research.
Introduction to My Research
This longitudinal PhD study investigates the impact of strategic choices on the performance and policies of innovation ecosystems. Over three years, from September 2024 to August 2027, my research will utilise the European Digital Innovation Hubs as a case study to explore these dynamics. The EDIHs, as part of the European Union’s Digital Decade[1] initiative, aim to accelerate the digital transformation of SMEs and PSOs by addressing regional challenges and fostering innovation. This alignment between my research and the objectives of EDIHs offers an invaluable opportunity to contribute to and learn from a pivotal moment in Europe’s digital evolution.
The Problem: Challenges for SMEs
According to the European SME 2020/21 report[2], a lack of skills, training, and innovation is one of the most significant barriers to growth for SMEs. The report highlighted that inadequate access to technical expertise and highly skilled workers is a persistent challenge that impacts SMEs' competitiveness in a rapidly evolving global economy. It concluded that addressing these issues requires a localised approach considering each region's unique needs and resources.
Solving the Problem: The Role of EDIHs
In response to these challenges, the European Commission introduced the Digital Decade policy programme, a framework designed to combine investments from the EU Commission and member states to support localised innovation projects. As part of this initiative, €329 million has been invested in a network of 180 EDIHs distributed across various European regions.
In January 2023, these hubs officially commenced operations, embarking on a mission to support SMEs and PSOs by:
Facilitating the transfer of academic knowledge to address societal challenges.
Providing access to cutting-edge technologies and infrastructure.
Offering collaboration opportunities, cooperation platforms, and specialised training.
EDIHs aim to help organisations respond effectively to digital challenges, ensuring they maintain a competitive advantage on the global stage[3].
The Unique Role of EDIHs in Innovation Ecosystems
The EDIHs are a cornerstone of the European Commission’s strategy to foster regional innovation ecosystems. By enhancing the digital capacity, capabilities, and literacy of SMEs and PSOs, the EDIHs aim to drive meaningful transformation at both local and national levels. My research specifically focuses on how the strategic choices made by EDIH Top Managers influence the performance of these ecosystems. By employing Strategy-as-Practice (SAP) theories, I aim to explore the relationship between strategic activities and their regional outcomes.
A Fortunate Placement
Beginning my PhD alongside the EDIHs’ journey presents a unique opportunity. Being part of a consortium involved in these initiatives gives me access to real-time data and insights, enabling me to closely monitor the EDIHs' development and influence on innovation ecosystems. This close involvement enhances my research and guarantees that my results will hold practical significance for European policymakers, managers, and stakeholders.
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[1] https://commission.europa.eu/strategy-and-policy/priorities-2019-2024/europe-fit-digital-age/europes-digital-decade-digital-targets-2030_en#the-path-to-the-digital-decade
[2] https://ec.europa.eu/docsroom/documents/46062
[3] https://digital-strategy.ec.europa.eu/en/activities/edihs
