Digital transformation is one of the hot topics in the European Commission’s agenda. The EU defines that digital transformation is characterised by a fusion of advanced technologies and the integration of physical and digital systems, the predominance of innovative business models and new processes, and the creation of smart products and services[1]. In this respect, it is obvious that digital transformation is very important for the growth of all industries and one of them is manufacturing industry. Leyla Arsan, CEO of TAGES, was invited to “Machine’s Agenda” Radio Programme of the ST SMEs’ Radio Channel (105.8) in Turkey which is presented by Arif Onur Kaçak, the General Secretary of AIMSAD to talk about the funding systems and opportunities for machinery manufacturing industry to develop innovative projects on digital transformation.
European Commission has established specific funding programmes which help EU manufacturing enterprises, especially SMEs, to adapt to global competitive pressures by improving the technological base of the EU manufacturing systems. Digital transformation is the main topic from the beginning of the funding programmes. Horizon 2020, the biggest EU Research and Innovation Programme, offers funding for projects related on this topic in thematic areas such as ICT, NMBP, Health and Care. Arsan emphasized that the most important subject in digitalization was “data”. Manufacturing industry generates big data which requires to be analyzed and the industry should make investments on this area.
She stated that the innovative projects on developing common data formats, ontology, open innovation platforms, modelling materials, assembling more reliable micro parts, creation of pilot lines for better and smarter manufacturing, developing methodologies and analyzing materials’ transformation in circular economy, zero and clean energy in manufacturing processes, using recycled materials and developing new manufacturing processes were supported in H2020 Programme. The machine manufacturing companies can also take part as a pilot in the projects and test the new technologies in especially ICT domain.
Arsan also pointed out the importance of EU projects where common EU standards are being developed by all partners together and mentioned about the funding opportunities mainly for SMEs.
You can listen to the full radio interview (in Turkish) by clicking the podcast link below:
[1] https://ec.europa.eu/growth/industry/policy/digital-transformation_en
