Community of Practice

Welcome to the AID4SME Community of Practice!

The AID4SME Community of Practice (CoP) serves as a cross-disciplinary ecosystem that facilitates continuous knowledge exchange, capacity building, and co-creation among stakeholders such as the chosen SMEs, research institutions, digital innovation hubs (DIHs), and industrial partners.

The AID4SME CoP is structured around four technical domains that combine AI and data technologies: Automation, Data Collection, Decision Support, and Insights.

How does it work

The AID4SME CoP helps SMEs bridge the gap between early innovation and market-ready AI solutions. We provide:

  • Tailored education: Training paths focused on digital and green skills.
  • Expert mentoring: One-on-one guidance from academic and research leaders.
  • Real-world collaboration: Solve industry-defined challenges in well-equipped environments.
  • Public literacy: Educational programs to foster broader AI awareness.
Members of the CoP are:
  • Academic and research institutions: (KUL, JSI, UGENT and LEITAT) offering mentoring and low-TRL playgrounds for early-stage technology development.
  • Industrial partners (ARC, LTH, ELES and VKR) operate high-TRL environments for real-world validation.
  • Digital Innovation Hubs and support entities (I2M, LOGI, EWF, F6S, GreeneDIH, LTC, ISQ) providing technical support, training, and OC coordination.
  • SMEs and startups engaged through the challenges defined in the OCs, receiving access to technical support and infrastructure.

 

After the project end, the COP will be open to external stakeholders. 

Programs for the public

Beyond SME-focused programs, the CoP will offer educational opportunities for a wider audience, fostering AI awareness and literacy. These programs will include:

  • Awareness and introductory sessions: Public webinars and e-lectures on AI, digital transformation, and green skills.
  • Open online courses: Modular online training available to the general public, addressing various EQF levels.
  • Community engagement: Dissemination through connected platforms, industry events, and workshops to enhance AI adoption across sectors.

 

More information coming soon.