The implementation of the MontEDIH (Montenegrin European Digital Innovation Hub) project officially began on January 1, 2025. This project is of strategic importance for the digital transformation and innovation development in SMEs and public administration.
The project’s budget is nearly €2 million, with 50% co-financed by the European Union through the Digital Europe program, highlighting its significance for the European and regional digital agenda. The Government of Montenegro, through the Ministry of Education, Science, and Innovation and the Ministry of Public Administration, co-finances 45% of the project, while partners will cover the remaining 5% of the costs.
MontEDIH is part of the European network of Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIH), which includes over 150 centers across Europe.
The MontEDIH project is coordinated by the Faculty of Electrical Engineering at the University of Montenegro. The project consortium includes: ICT Cortex, University of Donja Gorica, Montenegrin Institute of Contemporary Technologies, Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center Tehnopolis – Nikšić, Science and Technology Park of Montenegro, Center for Finance d.o.o. Podgorica, Chamber of Commerce of Montenegro
The successful participation of this consortium in the first call available to Western Balkan countries confirms the importance of synergy among institutions with the capacity and resources to support the development of the economy and public administration.
Digital Europe is an innovative EU program designed to stimulate the digital transformation of European society and the economy, contributing to economic recovery by supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The program is implemented through European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs), which serve as key support points for businesses and the public sector in the process of digital transformation and innovation enhancement, thereby increasing their competitiveness, efficiency, and overall success.
As part of the EDIH network, MontEDIH represents a key platform for enhancing the digital capacities of SMEs and public sector organizations in Montenegro. The project’s goal is to facilitate access to innovative and digital tools, knowledge, and expertise from various fields, contributing to the competitiveness, productivity, and sustainability of the Montenegrin economy, as well as the efficiency of public administration.
The MontEDIH project will:
Provide free testing services for state-of-the-art digital solutions based on AI (Artificial Intelligence), IoT (Internet of Things), Blockchain, and HPC (High-Performance Computing) technologies, allowing SMEs and the public sector to assess the benefits and risks of adopting new technologies;
Organize training sessions and workshops to strengthen digital skills and competencies of employees in public administration and companies operating in the agriculture, energy, tourism, construction, environmental protection, and trade sectors;
Connect businesses and public institutions with experts, technology centers, and international partners through the EDIH network;
Promote innovation and support the development of pilot projects and experimental solutions tailored to the specific needs of the local community;
Provide essential knowledge on business internationalization and access to financing opportunities;
Contribute to sustainable development and the green transformation of businesses, while also offering a comprehensive range of additional services.
Given that Montenegro needs accelerated development to align with European standards and remain competitive in the broader regional landscape, the MontEDIH project will enable businesses and institutions to:
Enhance their resilience to market challenges;
Optimize resource utilization more effectively;
Become an integral part of the European digital community.
During the implementation of the project, the public will be regularly informed about the activities, participation opportunities, and examples of best practices. All interested parties will soon receive detailed information about the opportunities that MontEDIH offers.
The project will have a four-year duration.