EU Launches Digital Maturity Tool to Boost SME Innovation
Brussels, Thursday, 8 August 2024.
The European Digital Innovation Hubs have introduced a free Digital Maturity Assessment tool for SMEs. Available in 32 languages, it helps businesses evaluate their digital strengths and weaknesses across six key criteria, supporting the EU’s goal of 75% AI, cloud, and big data adoption by European companies.
How the Tool Works
The Digital Maturity Assessment tool allows SMEs to assess their digital maturity across six essential criteria: digital business strategy, digital readiness, digital skills improvement, data management, automation and intelligence, and green digitalisation. This comprehensive evaluation helps businesses identify areas that need improvement and provides a roadmap for digital transformation.
Benefits for SMEs
By using this tool, SMEs can develop a clear understanding of their current digital capabilities and pinpoint specific areas where they can enhance their operations. This tailored approach ensures that companies can adopt digital technologies more effectively, improving their competitiveness and operational efficiency. Additionally, the insights gained from the assessment can aid in securing funding and support from local EDIHs and other stakeholders.
Support from the EDIH Network
The European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs) network, comprising 228 hubs, plays a crucial role in supporting SMEs through this digital transition. With 151 hubs funded by the European Commission’s Digital Europe Programme and the remaining 77 backed by national or regional resources, the network offers extensive support, including tailored advice and access to digital transformation resources.
Aligning with the Digital Decade Goals
The introduction of this tool aligns with the EU’s ambitious Digital Decade target of achieving a 75% uptake of AI, cloud, and big data technologies among European companies by 2030. As SMEs represent a significant portion of the business landscape in Europe, their digital transformation is critical for meeting these targets and ensuring overall economic growth and innovation.
A Collaborative Effort
The development and deployment of the Digital Maturity Assessment tool is a collaborative effort involving multiple stakeholders. The EDIH network, along with the Enterprise Europe Network and industrial clusters, leverages this tool to provide comprehensive support to SMEs. This multi-layered support system ensures that businesses receive the necessary guidance and resources to navigate their digital transformation journeys successfully.