ICT innovation for manufacturing SMEs (I4MS)

• August 14, 2023
• Andrew

ICT Innovation for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises in Manufacturing (I4MS) is an initiative funded by a grant from the European Commission’s Horizon 2020 programme, which aims to provide support to SMEs in the manufacturing sector in their digital transformation. I4MS is a major initiative launched in the context of digitising manufacturing and adapting European businesses to the digital age. I4MS is also one of the key initiatives launched by the European Commission to shape a pan-European network of Digital Innovation Hubs (DIHs). 

I4MS focuses on SMEs and mid-caps (organisations that typically employ 250-3 000 employees and generate more profit compared to smaller companies) offers a database with training on different technological applications in manufacturing. Training varies in format – online, blended or face-to-face workshops – and covers topics that have the potential to contribute to the digital transformation of SMEs, such as artificial intelligence, robotics, 3D printing in manufacturing, the Internet of Things and predictive maintenance, cybersecurity and many others. 

Through this initiative, SMEs and mid-caps can apply for funding in the form of technological and/or financial support and access to relevant calls for expression of interest and calls for services by the European institutions. Organisations can also use the infrastructure provided by I4MS to experiment with different technologies and innovative services and assess their contribution before investing in them. Resources are also available for businesses to support the development of digital skills and skills for the digital transformation. 

Disclaimer: The text has been automatically translated from the European platform Digital Skills and Jobs. If you have found errors in the text, please contact digikoalice@npi.cz