(L-R): Laura Plunkett, EDIH Programme Manager, CeADAR; Laura Clifford, Senior Programme Manager, Enterprise Ireland; Yves Paindaveine, Senior Expert, European Commission; Ricardo Simon Carbajo, Director of Innovation & Development, CeADAR; Kate Kao, Senior E-Commerce Administrator, FactoryXChange; Maurice O’Connell, COO, FactoryXChange.
Yesterday, CeADAR, Ireland’s Centre for Applied AI and the European Digital Innovation Hub for AI hosted Yves Paindaveine, AI Innovation and Policy Coordination unit of the AI Office, European Commission, as well as Maurice O’Connell, COO and Kate Kao, Senior Ecommerce Administrator, FactoryXChange and Laura Clifford, Senior Programme Manager- EDIH, Enterprise Ireland.
It was a valuable opportunity to showcase the work and impact of Ireland’s EDIH network, and to discuss the European Commission’s evolving priorities for digital transformation across Europe.
Our discussions focused on how EDIHs can continue to help SMEs de-risk AI and digital adoption. We explored practical approaches to collaboration, how EDIHs can complement national and European support programmes, and continue to improve access to specialist expertise. It was particularly encouraging to hear recognition of the strong collaboration and performance of the Irish EDIH network, and to exchange views on how the programme can evolve to support even more SMEs and PSOs and deliver greater economic and societal impact.
As CeADAR prepares for the next phase of our EDIH for AI programme in 2027, we look forward to continuing our collaboration with Yves and the European Commission, building on the lessons learned and helping shape a more accessible, connected and impactful European digital innovation ecosystem.