On March 18, 2025, the Romanian Digital Day conference took place at the European Parliament in Brussels, a landmark event that brought together over 200 representatives from business, academia, and public institutions to discuss Europe’s digital future. As part of Romania’s digital transformation network, Digital Innovation Zone participated in this strategic event as one of the country’s leading European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs), actively contributing to regional and European digital advancement.
Romania – The Digital Tiger of Europe
The event outlined Romania’s vision of becoming the “Digital Tiger of Europe,” building on a strong IT community of over 200,000 professionals, advanced digital infrastructure, and an annual digital ecosystem growth rate of 15%. In this context, Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs) like Digital Innovation Zone play a crucial role in accelerating the adoption of emerging technologies among SMEs and public institutions.
The Strategic Role of EDIHs in Romania and the EU
The Romanian Digital Dayconference highlighted that real digital transformation happens at the regional level, and EDIHs are key catalysts in this process. These hubs provide comprehensive support for digitalization, from “Test Before Invest” services to training, mentoring, and specialized consulting.
As outlined in the conference concept note, EDIHs are recognized as fundamental pillars in closing both technological and cultural gaps. They help overcome the “mentality gap” that often hinders innovation, by providing practical, locally tailored approaches to encourage the adoption of digital technologies.
Romania is viewed as a regional leader in the European EDIH network, and Digital Innovation Zone serves as a model for effectively connecting local actors (SMEs, universities, public administration) with the opportunities and resources of the European digital innovation landscape.
Digital Innovation Zone’s Contribution
As one of Romania’s most active digital hubs, Digital Innovation Zone supports the regional ecosystem through:
- “Test Before Invest” services that reduce risks associated with digitalization;
- Training programs focused on developing advanced digital skills;
- Mentorship and consulting in the integration of AI, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies;
- Facilitating collaboration between academia, industry, and public administration.
Our presence at Romanian Digital Day strengthened DIZ’s position within the European digital innovation network and enabled direct dialogue with key stakeholders involved in shaping digital policy at the European level.
Commitment to the Digital Future
The conference emphasized the importance of allocating 30% of the European Competitiveness Plan to digitalization, AI and cybersecurity investment, and support for startup and scale-up ecosystems. These strategic directions are closely aligned with Digital Innovation Zone’s mission to drive innovation and sustainable digital transformation in the region.
Furthermore, key challenges identified—such as regulatory fragmentation and the shift from outsourcing to original product development—are already being addressed by DIZ through concrete initiatives and partnerships at both the national and European levels.
More details about concept notes can be found HERE.
