Implementation of the MONTEDIH Project Has Started

The implementation of the MontEDIH (Montenegrin European Digital Innovation Hub) project officially started on January 1, 2025. This project is of strategic importance for the digital transformation and innovation development in SMEs and public administration in Montenegro. The project has a budget of nearly 2 million euros.

The European Union co-finances the project with 50% through the Digital Europe program, which highlights its significance for the European and regional digital agenda. The Government of Montenegro (Ministry of Education, Science and Innovation, and the Ministry of Public Administration) co-finances 45% of the project’s value, while the project partners will cover 5% of the project’s costs.

MontEDIH is part of the European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIH) network, which consists of more than 150 centers across Europe.

The Project Coordinator is the Faculty of Electrical Engineering at the University of Montenegro

The project consortium includes: the University of Donja Gorica, the Institute of Contemporary Technologies of Montenegro, the Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center Tehnopolis – Nikšić, the Science and Technology Park of Montenegro, the Finance Center d.o.o. Podgorica, and the Chamber of Commerce of Montenegro.

This consortium, through its successful participation in the first call available to consortia from the Western Balkan countries, has confirmed the importance of synergy among institutions with the capacity and resources to contribute to the further development of the economy and public administration.

Digital Europe is an innovative EU program designed to stimulate the digital transformation of European society and economy, contributing to economic recovery by supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The implementation of this program is carried out through Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs) as key support points for the economy and public sector in the process of digital transformation and the enhancement of innovation, which increases their competitiveness, efficiency, and success.

As part of the EDIH network, MontEDIH represents a key platform for enhancing the digital capacities of small and medium-sized enterprises and public sector organizations in Montenegro. The project’s goal is to provide easier access to innovative digital tools, knowledge, and expertise across various fields, which will contribute to strengthening the competitiveness, productivity, and sustainability of Montenegro’s economy, as well as the efficiency of public administration.

The MontEDIH Project Will:

  • Provide free services for testing 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 and workshops to strengthen the digital skills and competencies of employees in public administration and companies in sectors such as agriculture, energy, tourism, construction, environmental protection, and trade;

  • 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 finance;

  • Contribute to sustainable development, green business transformation, and offer a wide range of other services.

Given Montenegro’s need for accelerated development in order to align with European standards and remain competitive in the broader context, through MontEDIH, businesses and institutions gain the opportunity to:

  • Strengthen their resilience to market challenges;

  • Use resources more efficiently;

  • Become part of the European digital community

During the Project Implementation, the Public Will Be Timely Informed About Activities, Participation Opportunities, and Best Practice Examples

Throughout the implementation of the project, the public will be promptly notified about the activities, opportunities for participation, and examples of best practices. All interested parties will soon receive detailed information about the opportunities MontEDIH offers. The project will last for four years