KPF INDUSTR_I4.0
The INDUSTR_I4.0 small project fund accelerates the digital transformation in the (manufacturing) industry in the German-Dutch border region. The project does not focus on the frontrunners, but on the following group of SMEs. The focus is on the introduction and implementation of digital technologies to accelerate innovation in SMEs. A total of 10 million euros is available for this purpose. INDUSTR_I4.0 runs from 2024 to 2027 and is supported by the Interreg VI programme Germany-Netherlands.
So far, only a small proportion of SMEs have benefited from advanced Industry 4.0 technology
In recent years, great progress has been made in the digital transformation of the (manufacturing) industry (Industry 4.0, also known as Smart Industry). But we are not there yet: research by Radboud University shows that only 15% of entrepreneurs in the border region use advanced Industry 4.0 technology.
Many of these technologies are developed in isolation and have few links to other digital technologies.
While a small proportion of entrepreneurs have benefited from support measures for the digital transformation in recent years, a larger proportion appear to be struggling to utilise the opportunities presented by the digital transformation: There is a risk of being left behind.
The grant enables SMEs to innovate
INDUSTR_I4.0 aims to change this by specifically realising 80 cross-border digital innovation projects and 80 feasibility studies.The focus is on the introduction of digital technologies and thus hits the ‘pain point’ of many small and medium-sized enterprises.
It is not about developing a completely new AI protocol, but about using AI to further innovate products and (business) processes.In the coming years, INDUSTR_I4.0 will support up to around 200 entrepreneurs in the border region.
Within the projects, cooperation between Dutch and German partners is a prerequisite.
The INDUSTR_I4.0 small project fund is implemented as part of the Interreg VI Germany-Netherlands programme and is co-financed by the European Union, the MWIKE NRW, the Lower Saxony Ministry of Federal and European Affairs and Regional Development, the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate and the provinces of Fryslân, Groningen, Drenthe, Overijssel, Flevoland, Gelderland, Noord-Brabant and Limburg.
All information and application forms are available at industri4-interreg.eu.