Since the end of November, the Algarve STP Association (Systems and Technology Partnership) has been one of the four Digital Innovation Hubs (DIHs) recognized in Portugal.
Algarve STP submitted the application to Digital Innovaton Hub with the acronym Algarve Smart Destination DIH. The European Digital Network
Innovation Hubs approved the application with the attribution of “fully operational".
The four operational DIHs recognized in Portugal are headquartered in Porto (2), in Lisbon (1) and now one in the Algarve.
Algarve Smart Destination (DIH) is made up of an informal network, which is led by Algarve STP.
Public and private entities from the University of the Algarve, Fraunhofer Portugal, Altice Labs, the Algarve Evolution association and several companies in the technology area, based in the Algarve, joined this initiative as partners.
Membership in this informal network is also open to other entities linked to the territory or with specific competences, as long as they meet the objectives of IHL.
IHLs arise as a result of the “Digital Single Market Package” program launched by the European Union in 2016 to stimulate investments in the digitization of the economy and to create favorable conditions for a digital revolution.
One of the fundamental axes for the digitization of European industry includes the development of collaborative activities. And it is in this domain that IHLs appear.
As Algarve STP explains, «DIHs are one-stop-shop (aggregation point) that contribute to companies being more competitive in processes, products, services, using digital technologies. They are centers for the aggregation of competences that provide access to the latest innovations and that serve as support for the respective partners. They also provide services, used inter alia to identify funding for innovation'.
The proximity to the territory is, according to the association “the key element, as these entities act as the first regional contact point or gateway to innovation”.
An IHL is a multi-partner cooperation that includes several stakeholders (entities linked to the territory) from University, industrial associations, private companies and research center.
It also has connections with service providers outside the region, in cases where the competence is not present in the territory object of its action.
The objective is, adds Algarve STP, to «help European activities, from SMEs to larger companies, in their respective digitization processes».
The European Union will finance IHLs with 500 million euros over the next 5 years, with funds that will come from the Horizon 2020 Programme.
The program aims to have an IHL in each region of Europe and to encourage collaboration between them.
Associação Algarve STP is a non-profit private association, which brings together public and private members.
Currently, Algarve STP has the University of Algarve, ANJE, Municipal Council of Faro, Loulé City Council, Portimão City Council, Docapesca, and the Algarve Evolution Association as members, «new adhesions are expected soon».
This organization has as its objective, among others, the development and consolidation of the Algarve's Ecosystem of Innovation, «based on a strong structured partnership between associations, entities and companies».
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