HELIX-SMART-"excellence Hubs Enhancing Linkages and Innovation for X-border ecosystems and SMART transition"
An EU project co-funded by Cross-Border Cooperation Program INTERREG “Greece-Italy 2021 – 2027”, under Priority P1. -Description: HELIX-SMART is a cross-border initiative advancing digital transformation and sustainable growth for SMEs and freelancers in Greece and Italy, focusing on ICT,
tourism, and the blue economy. Addressing regional challenges, the project aims to close digital skills gaps, enhance competitiveness, and foster sustainable practices, boosting regional resilience. Leveraging successes from projects like TeleICCE, HELIX-SMART establishes Living Labs through multipurpose centers where SMEs and freelancers can co-create and experiment with digital solutions. A dedicated e-learning platform with MOOCs will deliver specialized courses to equip businesses with essential digital skills, supporting competitiveness in a digital economy. Through cross-border collaboration among SMEs, public authorities, and academic institutions, HELIX-SMART builds a shared network of resources and knowledge, tackling digitalization challenges together. The initiative provides long-term benefits, including improved digital skills, access to innovation resources, and stronger links within a supportive ecosystem. Aligning with Greece's Digital Transformation Bible and Italy's Impresa 4.0, HELIX-SMART embeds resources into business support services, ensuring sustained impact beyond the project duration. Expected outcomes include enhanced digital readiness, improved access to training and innovation, and an inclusive, interconnected business environment. The project's inclusive approach promotes digital access for women-led businesses and disadvantaged communities, fostering equitable economic growth. HELIX-SMART's model strengthens regional resilience and exemplifies effective cross-border collaboration in digital transformation.
-Project partnership:
1.Ionian University – Research Committee (LB – IU) – Greece - Corfu
2.Chamber of Achaia (PB2 – CoA) – Greece - Achaia
2."ATHENA" – Research and Innovation Centre in Information Communication and Knowledge Technology (PB3 – Athena) – Greece - Achaia
4.University of Foggia (PB4 – UoF) – Italy - Foggia
5.National Confederation of Crafts and Small and Medium Entrerprises – Provincial Association of Brindisi (PB5 – CNA Brindisi) – Italy - Brindisi
6.Local Action Group Low Tyrrhenian Reggino (PB6 – GAL-Batir) – Italy - Reggio di Calabria
-Project Duration: 24 months (Start date: 04/06/2025- End date: 04/06/2027)
