SIHTOTSTARBELISE ERALDISE LEPING nr 8-1/306-1 AIRE2 elluviimiseks - Tallinna Tehnikaülikool

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8-1306-1 28.10.2025 Leping.asice12825 KB

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Application forms Call: DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-EU-EEA-08 (EDIHs AI Continent) Topic: DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-EU-EEA-08-CONSOLIDATION-STEP Type of Action: DIGITAL-SIMPLE (DIGITAL Simple Grants) Proposal number: 101256226 Proposal acronym: AIRE2 Type of Model Grant Agreement: DIGITAL Action Grant Budget-Based Table of contents Section Title Action 1 General information 2 Participants 3 Budget 4 Other questions PG ver 1.00 20250220 Page 1 of 45 Last saved 13/05/2025 13:27 This proposal version was submitted by Annela Hendrikson on 13/05/2025 13:27:06 Brussels Local Time. Issued by the Funding & Tenders Portal Submission System. Application forms Proposal ID 101256226 Acronym AIRE2 1 - General information Field(s) marked * are mandatory to fill. Topic DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-EU-EEA-08-CONSOLIDA Type of Action DIGITAL-SIMPLE Call DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-EU-EEA-08 Type of Model Grant Agreement DIGITAL-AG Acronym AIRE2 Proposal title AI & ROBOTICS ESTONIA 2.0 (EDIH) Note that for technical reasons, the following characters are not accepted in the Proposal Title and will be removed: < > " & Duration in 36 months Fixed keyword 1 Artificial Intelligence & Decision support Fixed keyword 2 Manufacturing and processing Fixed keyword 3 Big data Fixed keyword 4 Human computer interaction Fixed keyword 5 Sme Business Development Fixed keyword 6 Cybersecurity AI for industry, digitalisation, European collaboration for AI, AI awareness raising, AI test-beds for industry, Free keywords HPC for big data management, funding for innovation, technology investments. Abstract * AI & Robotics Estonia AIRE (AIRE, aire-edih.eu) as the only and AI focused EDIH in Estonia has had an impactful start from 2022 supporting 270 Estonian SMEs by triggering additional investments to AI and digitalisation by €62M (public and private funding), reaching out to 120 SMEs outside Estonia by March 2025 (mainly through webinars, awareness raising and match-making), collaborating actively with 27 EDIHs to build up cross-border collaboration services, reaching more than 1200 employees of the SMEs for skills and training and hosting about 3000 participants in the AIRE Club networking events to promote AI innovation for competitiveness in Europe. According to the survey “European Digital Innovation Hubs Network's activities and customers“ (2024), AIRE is ranked first among EDIHs according to the number of customers service units per GDP and per million of inhabitants. By March 2025, AIRE has offered 3159 unique services to clients reported to the EDIH platform. The mission of AIRE as an EDIH is to drive and promote AI innovation in Estonia, to be an active and agile European-level stakeholder in the field of knowledge transfer and awareness raising of AI innovation in collaboration with the EU AI Ecosystem partners, to foster economic impact and to reduce obstacles for large-scale AI investments. In 2025-2028, AIRE will focus on internationalisation of the well-received test before invest services and to support the SMEs in access to the EU AI Ecosystem and infrastructure (TEF, AI factories among others). Crucial focus will remain on a very popular EDIH service “Access to finances” that facilitates all other services to SMEs and the their willingness (courage) and knowledge to invest more to reach the ambitious objectives of European competitiveness (Draghi report 2024). Remaining characters 195 PG ver 1.00 20250220 Page 2 of 45 Last saved 13/05/2025 13:27 This proposal version was submitted by Annela Hendrikson on 13/05/2025 13:27:06 Brussels Local Time. Issued by the Funding & Tenders Portal Submission System. Application forms Proposal ID 101256226 Acronym AIRE2 Has this proposal (or a very similar one) been submitted in the past 2 years in response to a call for proposals under any EU programme, including the current call? Yes No Please give the proposal reference or contract number. Previously submitted proposals should be with either 6 or 9 digits. Declarations Field(s) marked * are mandatory to fill. 1) We declare to have the explicit consent of all applicants on their participation and on the content of this proposal. * 2) We confirm that the information contained in this proposal is correct and complete and that none of the project activities have started before the proposal was submitted (unless explicitly authorised in the call conditions). * 3) We declare: - to be fully compliant with the eligibility criteria set out in the call - not to be subject to any exclusion grounds under the EU Financial Regulation 2018/1046 - to have the financial and operational capacity to carry out the proposed project. * 4) We acknowledge that all communication will be made through the Funding & Tenders Portal electronic exchange system and that access and use of this system is subject to the Funding & Tenders Portal Terms and Conditions. * 5) We have read, understood and accepted the Funding & Tenders Portal Terms & Conditions and Privacy Statement that set out the conditions of use of the Portal and the scope, purposes, retention periods, etc. for the processing of personal data of all data subjects whose data we communicate for the purpose of the application, evaluation, award and subsequent management of our grant, prizes and contracts (including financial transactions and audits). * The coordinator is only responsible for the information relating to their own organisation. Each applicant remains responsible for the information declared for their organisation. If the proposal is retained for EU funding, they will all be required to sign a declaration of honour. False statements or incorrect information may lead to administrative sanctions under the EU Financial Regulation. PG ver 1.00 20250220 Page 3 of 45 Last saved 13/05/2025 13:27 This proposal version was submitted by Annela Hendrikson on 13/05/2025 13:27:06 Brussels Local Time. Issued by the Funding & Tenders Portal Submission System. Application forms Proposal ID 101256226 Acronym AIRE2 2 - Participants List of participating organisations # Participating Organisation Legal Name Country Role Action 1 TALLINNA TEHNIKAÜLIKOOL EE Coordinator 2 TARTU ULIKOOL EE Partner 3 EESTI MAAULIKOOL EE Partner 4 SIHTASUTUS TALLINNA TEADUSPARK TEHNOPOL EE Partner 5 Tartu Science Park Foundation EE Partner 6 OU IMECC EE Partner 7 TALLINN UNIVERSITY EE Partner 8 ETTEVOTLUSE JA INNOVATSIOONI SIHTASUTUS EE Associated 9 EESTI ELEKTROONIKATOOSTUSE LIIT EE Associated 10 MTU EESTI KAUBANDUS-TOOSTUSKODA EE Associated 11 MTU EESTI MASINATOOSTUSE LIIT EE Associated 12 EESTI INFOTEHNOLOOGIA JA TELEKOMMUNIKATSIOONI L EE Associated 13 Tallinna Ettevõtlusamet EE Associated 14 TARTU LINN EE Associated PG ver 1.00 20250220 Page 4 of 45 Last saved 13/05/2025 13:27 This proposal version was submitted by Annela Hendrikson on 13/05/2025 13:27:06 Brussels Local Time. Issued by the Funding & Tenders Portal Submission System. Application forms Proposal ID 101256226 Acronym AIRE2 Short name TALLINN UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY Organisation data PIC Legal name 999842536 TALLINNA TEHNIKAÜLIKOOL Short name: TALLINN UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY Address Street EHITAJATE TEE 5 Town TALLINN Postcode 19086 Country Estonia Webpage www.taltech.ee Specific Legal Statuses Legal person .......................................................... yes Public body ............................................................ yes Non-profit ............................................................... yes International organisation ................................ no Secondary or Higher education establishment ...... yes Research organisation ........................................ yes SME Data Based on the below details from the Participant Registry the organisation is not an SME (small- and medium-sized enterprise) for the call. SME self-declared status...................................... 31/12/2015 - no SME self-assessment ............................................ 31/12/2015 - no SME validation sme .............................................. unknown Page 5 of 45 Last saved 13/05/2025 13:27 This proposal version was submitted by Annela Hendrikson on 13/05/2025 13:27:06 Brussels Local Time. Issued by the Funding & Tenders Portal Submission System. Application forms Proposal ID 101256226 Acronym AIRE2 Short name TALLINN UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY Departments carrying out the proposed work Department 1 Department name AI & Robotics centre AIRE not applicable Same as proposing organisation's address Street EHITAJATE TEE 5 Town TALLINN Postcode 19086 Country Estonia Department 2 Department name School of Information technologies not applicable Same as proposing organisation's address Street EHITAJATE TEE 5 Town TALLINN Postcode 19086 Country Estonia Page 6 of 45 Last saved 13/05/2025 13:27 This proposal version was submitted by Annela Hendrikson on 13/05/2025 13:27:06 Brussels Local Time. Issued by the Funding & Tenders Portal Submission System. Application forms Proposal ID 101256226 Acronym AIRE2 Short name TALLINN UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY Department 3 Department name Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering not applicable Same as proposing organisation's address Street EHITAJATE TEE 5 Town TALLINN Postcode 19086 Country Estonia Links with other participants Type of link Participant Page 7 of 45 Last saved 13/05/2025 13:27 This proposal version was submitted by Annela Hendrikson on 13/05/2025 13:27:06 Brussels Local Time. Issued by the Funding & Tenders Portal Submission System. Application forms Proposal ID 101256226 Acronym AIRE2 Short name TALLINN UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY Main contact person The name and e-mail of contact persons are read-only in the administrative form, only additional details can be edited here. To give access rights and basic contact details of contact persons, please go back to step - Manage your related parties of the submission wizard and save the changes. Title Mrs Gender Woman Man Non Binary First name Katre Last name Eljas E-Mail [email protected] Position in org. Chief Operations Officer Department AI and Robotics Centre (AIRE) Same as organisation name Same as proposing organisation's address Street Raja 15 Town Tallinn Post code 12618 Country Estonia Website www.taltech.ee Phone +3725211994 Phone 2 +xxx xxxxxxxxx Other contact persons First Name Last Name E-mail Phone Annela Hendrikson [email protected] +37253938948 Riina Rohumäe [email protected] +xxx xxxxxxxxx Evelin Ebruk [email protected] +xxx xxxxxxxxx Reet Pärgmäe [email protected] +xxx xxxxxxxxx Marika Lunden [email protected] +xxx xxxxxxxxx Siim Läänelaid [email protected] +xxx xxxxxxxxx Kirke Maar [email protected] +xxx xxxxxxxxx Page 8 of 45 Last saved 13/05/2025 13:27 This proposal version was submitted by Annela Hendrikson on 13/05/2025 13:27:06 Brussels Local Time. Issued by the Funding & Tenders Portal Submission System. Application forms Proposal ID 101256226 Acronym AIRE2 Short name UNIVERSITY OF TARTU PIC Legal name 999895013 TARTU ULIKOOL Short name: UNIVERSITY OF TARTU Address Street ULIKOOLI 18 Town TARTU Postcode 50090 Country Estonia Webpage www.ut.ee Specific Legal Statuses Legal person .......................................................... yes Public body ............................................................ yes Non-profit ............................................................... yes International organisation ................................ no Secondary or Higher education establishment ...... yes Research organisation ........................................ yes SME Data Based on the below details from the Participant Registry the organisation is not an SME (small- and medium-sized enterprise) for the call. SME self-declared status...................................... 13/03/2025 - no SME self-assessment ............................................ unknown SME validation sme .............................................. unknown Page 9 of 45 Last saved 13/05/2025 13:27 This proposal version was submitted by Annela Hendrikson on 13/05/2025 13:27:06 Brussels Local Time. Issued by the Funding & Tenders Portal Submission System. Application forms Proposal ID 101256226 Acronym AIRE2 Short name UNIVERSITY OF TARTU Departments carrying out the proposed work Department 1 Department name Institute of Technology not applicable Same as proposing organisation's address Street Nooruse 1 Town Tartu Postcode 50411 Country Estonia Department 2 Department name Institute of Computer Science not applicable Same as proposing organisation's address Street Narva mnt 18 Town Tartu Postcode 51009 Country Estonia Links with other participants Type of link Participant Page 10 of 45 Last saved 13/05/2025 13:27 This proposal version was submitted by Annela Hendrikson on 13/05/2025 13:27:06 Brussels Local Time. Issued by the Funding & Tenders Portal Submission System. Application forms Proposal ID 101256226 Acronym AIRE2 Short name UNIVERSITY OF TARTU Main contact person The name and e-mail of contact persons are read-only in the administrative form, only additional details can be edited here. To give access rights and basic contact details of contact persons, please go back to step - Manage your related parties of the submission wizard and save the changes. Title Ms Gender Woman Man Non Binary First name Kirsi Last name Zirel E-Mail [email protected] Position in org. project assistant Department Institute of Technology Same as organisation name Same as proposing organisation's address Street Nooruse 1 Town Tartu Post code 50411 Country Estonia Website Please enter website Phone +xxx xxxxxxxxx Phone 2 +xxx xxxxxxxxx Other contact persons First Name Last Name E-mail Phone Mari-Anne Suurpere [email protected] +xxx xxxxxxxxx Alvo Aabloo [email protected] +xxx xxxxxxxxx Helen Jõesaar [email protected] +xxx xxxxxxxxx Laura Tomson [email protected] +xxx xxxxxxxxx Page 11 of 45 Last saved 13/05/2025 13:27 This proposal version was submitted by Annela Hendrikson on 13/05/2025 13:27:06 Brussels Local Time. Issued by the Funding & Tenders Portal Submission System. Application forms Proposal ID 101256226 Acronym AIRE2 Short name ESTONIAN UNIVERSITY OF LIFE SCIENCES EMU PIC Legal name 999857280 EESTI MAAULIKOOL Short name: ESTONIAN UNIVERSITY OF LIFE SCIENCES EMU Address Street KREUTZWALDI 1 Town TARTU Postcode 51014 Country Estonia Webpage www.emu.ee Specific Legal Statuses Legal person .......................................................... yes Public body ............................................................ yes Non-profit ............................................................... yes International organisation ................................ no Secondary or Higher education establishment ...... yes Research organisation ........................................ yes SME Data Based on the below details from the Participant Registry the organisation is not an SME (small- and medium-sized enterprise) for the call. SME self-declared status...................................... 07/08/2008 - no SME self-assessment ............................................ 07/08/2008 - no SME validation sme .............................................. 07/08/2008 - no Page 12 of 45 Last saved 13/05/2025 13:27 This proposal version was submitted by Annela Hendrikson on 13/05/2025 13:27:06 Brussels Local Time. Issued by the Funding & Tenders Portal Submission System. Application forms Proposal ID 101256226 Acronym AIRE2 Short name ESTONIAN UNIVERSITY OF LIFE SCIENCES EMU Departments carrying out the proposed work Department 1 Department name Institute of Forestry and Engineering not applicable Same as proposing organisation's address Street F. R. Kreutzwaldi 56 Town Tartu Postcode 51006 Country Estonia Links with other participants Type of link Participant Page 13 of 45 Last saved 13/05/2025 13:27 This proposal version was submitted by Annela Hendrikson on 13/05/2025 13:27:06 Brussels Local Time. Issued by the Funding & Tenders Portal Submission System. Application forms Proposal ID 101256226 Acronym AIRE2 Short name ESTONIAN UNIVERSITY OF LIFE SCIENCES EMU Main contact person The name and e-mail of contact persons are read-only in the administrative form, only additional details can be edited here. To give access rights and basic contact details of contact persons, please go back to step - Manage your related parties of the submission wizard and save the changes. Title Prof. Gender Woman Man Non Binary First name Marten Last name Madissoo E-Mail [email protected] Position in org. Assistant Professor of Manufacturing Engineering Department Institute of Forestry and Engineering Same as organisation name Same as proposing organisation's address Street F. R. Kreutzwaldi 56 Town Tartu Post code 51006 Country Estonia Website https://mi.emu.ee/en Phone +372 55617070 Phone 2 +xxx xxxxxxxxx Other contact persons First Name Last Name E-mail Phone Kerli Plato [email protected] +372 7313333 Anne Siilbek [email protected] +xxx xxxxxxxxx Margus Arak [email protected] +372 56 54445 Page 14 of 45 Last saved 13/05/2025 13:27 This proposal version was submitted by Annela Hendrikson on 13/05/2025 13:27:06 Brussels Local Time. Issued by the Funding & Tenders Portal Submission System. Application forms Proposal ID 101256226 Acronym AIRE2 Short name TALLINN SCIENCE PARK TEHNOPOL PIC Legal name 999764257 SIHTASUTUS TALLINNA TEADUSPARK TEHNOPOL Short name: TALLINN SCIENCE PARK TEHNOPOL Address Street TEADUSPARAGI 6/1 Town TALLINN Postcode 12618 Country Estonia Webpage www.tehnopol.ee Specific Legal Statuses Legal person .......................................................... yes Public body ............................................................ no Non-profit ............................................................... yes International organisation ................................ no Secondary or Higher education establishment ...... no Research organisation ........................................ no SME Data Based on the below details from the Participant Registry the organisation is not an SME (small- and medium-sized enterprise) for the call. SME self-declared status...................................... 31/12/2018 - no SME self-assessment ............................................ 31/12/2018 - no SME validation sme .............................................. unknown Page 15 of 45 Last saved 13/05/2025 13:27 This proposal version was submitted by Annela Hendrikson on 13/05/2025 13:27:06 Brussels Local Time. Issued by the Funding & Tenders Portal Submission System. Application forms Proposal ID 101256226 Acronym AIRE2 Short name TALLINN SCIENCE PARK TEHNOPOL Departments carrying out the proposed work Department 1 Department name Business Services for Scaleups not applicable Same as proposing organisation's address Street Mäealuse 2/4, Tallinn Town Tallinn Postcode 12618 Country Estonia Links with other participants Type of link Participant Page 16 of 45 Last saved 13/05/2025 13:27 This proposal version was submitted by Annela Hendrikson on 13/05/2025 13:27:06 Brussels Local Time. Issued by the Funding & Tenders Portal Submission System. Application forms Proposal ID 101256226 Acronym AIRE2 Short name TALLINN SCIENCE PARK TEHNOPOL Main contact person The name and e-mail of contact persons are read-only in the administrative form, only additional details can be edited here. To give access rights and basic contact details of contact persons, please go back to step - Manage your related parties of the submission wizard and save the changes. Title Mr Gender Woman Man Non Binary First name Rauno Last name Varblas E-Mail [email protected] Position in org. Head of AI Department Business Services for Scaleups Same as organisation name Same as proposing organisation's address Street Mäealuse 2/4, Tallinn Town Tallinn Post code 12618 Country Estonia Website https://www.tehnopol.ee/en/ Phone +37258638322 Phone 2 +37256800200 Page 17 of 45 Last saved 13/05/2025 13:27 This proposal version was submitted by Annela Hendrikson on 13/05/2025 13:27:06 Brussels Local Time. Issued by the Funding & Tenders Portal Submission System. Application forms Proposal ID 101256226 Acronym AIRE2 Short name TARTU SCIENCE PARK FOUNDATION TSP PIC Legal name 998505391 Tartu Science Park Foundation Short name: TARTU SCIENCE PARK FOUNDATION TSP Address Street RIIA TN 181A Town Tartu Postcode 50411 Country Estonia Webpage www.sciencepark.ee Specific Legal Statuses Legal person .......................................................... yes Public body ............................................................ no Non-profit ............................................................... yes International organisation ................................ no Secondary or Higher education establishment ...... no Research organisation ........................................ no SME Data Based on the below details from the Participant Registry the organisation is unknown (small- and medium-sized enterprise) for the call. SME self-declared status...................................... unknown SME self-assessment ............................................ unknown SME validation sme .............................................. unknown Page 18 of 45 Last saved 13/05/2025 13:27 This proposal version was submitted by Annela Hendrikson on 13/05/2025 13:27:06 Brussels Local Time. Issued by the Funding & Tenders Portal Submission System. Application forms Proposal ID 101256226 Acronym AIRE2 Short name TARTU SCIENCE PARK FOUNDATION TSP Departments carrying out the proposed work No department involved Department name Name of the department/institute carrying out the work. not applicable Same as proposing organisation's address Street Please enter street name and number. Town Please enter the name of the town. Postcode Area code. Country Please select a country Links with other participants Type of link Participant Page 19 of 45 Last saved 13/05/2025 13:27 This proposal version was submitted by Annela Hendrikson on 13/05/2025 13:27:06 Brussels Local Time. Issued by the Funding & Tenders Portal Submission System. Application forms Proposal ID 101256226 Acronym AIRE2 Short name TARTU SCIENCE PARK FOUNDATION TSP Main contact person The name and e-mail of contact persons are read-only in the administrative form, only additional details can be edited here. To give access rights and basic contact details of contact persons, please go back to step - Manage your related parties of the submission wizard and save the changes. Title Ms Gender Woman Man Non Binary First name Ingrid Last name Hunt E-Mail [email protected] Position in org. Project Manager Department Tartu Science Park Foundation Same as organisation name Same as proposing organisation's address Street RIIA TN 181A Town Tartu Post code 50411 Country Estonia Website www.teaduspark.ee Phone +3725125298 Phone 2 +xxx xxxxxxxxx Page 20 of 45 Last saved 13/05/2025 13:27 This proposal version was submitted by Annela Hendrikson on 13/05/2025 13:27:06 Brussels Local Time. Issued by the Funding & Tenders Portal Submission System. Application forms Proposal ID 101256226 Acronym AIRE2 Short name OU IMECC PIC Legal name 940824244 OU IMECC Short name: OU IMECC Address Street EHITAJATE TEE 108, MUSTAMAE LINNAOS HARJU M Town TALLINN Postcode 13517 Country Estonia Webpage www.imecc.ee Specific Legal Statuses Legal person .......................................................... yes Public body ............................................................ no Non-profit ............................................................... no International organisation ................................ no Secondary or Higher education establishment ...... no Research organisation ........................................ no SME Data Based on the below details from the Participant Registry the organisation is an SME (small- and medium-sized enterprise) for the call. SME self-declared status...................................... 31/12/2015 - yes SME self-assessment ............................................ 31/12/2015 - yes SME validation sme .............................................. unknown Page 21 of 45 Last saved 13/05/2025 13:27 This proposal version was submitted by Annela Hendrikson on 13/05/2025 13:27:06 Brussels Local Time. Issued by the Funding & Tenders Portal Submission System. Application forms Proposal ID 101256226 Acronym AIRE2 Short name OU IMECC Departments carrying out the proposed work No department involved Department name Name of the department/institute carrying out the work. not applicable Same as proposing organisation's address Street Please enter street name and number. Town Please enter the name of the town. Postcode Area code. Country Please select a country Links with other participants Type of link Participant Page 22 of 45 Last saved 13/05/2025 13:27 This proposal version was submitted by Annela Hendrikson on 13/05/2025 13:27:06 Brussels Local Time. Issued by the Funding & Tenders Portal Submission System. Application forms Proposal ID 101256226 Acronym AIRE2 Short name OU IMECC Main contact person The name and e-mail of contact persons are read-only in the administrative form, only additional details can be edited here. To give access rights and basic contact details of contact persons, please go back to step - Manage your related parties of the submission wizard and save the changes. Title Dr Gender Woman Man Non Binary First name Kaia Last name Lõun E-Mail [email protected] Position in org. project expert, financial manager Department OU IMECC Same as organisation name Same as proposing organisation's address Street EHITAJATE TEE 108, MUSTAMAE LINNAOS HARJU MAAKOND Town TALLINN Post code 13517 Country Estonia Website www.imecc.ee Phone +3726727744 Phone 2 +xxx xxxxxxxxx Page 23 of 45 Last saved 13/05/2025 13:27 This proposal version was submitted by Annela Hendrikson on 13/05/2025 13:27:06 Brussels Local Time. Issued by the Funding & Tenders Portal Submission System. Application forms Proposal ID 101256226 Acronym AIRE2 Short name TALLINN UNIVERSITY PIC Legal name 999421653 TALLINN UNIVERSITY Short name: TALLINN UNIVERSITY Address Street Narva Road 25 Town TALLINN Postcode 10120 Country Estonia Webpage www.tlu.ee Specific Legal Statuses Legal person .......................................................... yes Public body ............................................................ yes Non-profit ............................................................... yes International organisation ................................ no Secondary or Higher education establishment ...... yes Research organisation ........................................ yes SME Data Based on the below details from the Participant Registry the organisation is not an SME (small- and medium-sized enterprise) for the call. SME self-declared status...................................... 13/01/2022 - no SME self-assessment ............................................ unknown SME validation sme .............................................. unknown Page 24 of 45 Last saved 13/05/2025 13:27 This proposal version was submitted by Annela Hendrikson on 13/05/2025 13:27:06 Brussels Local Time. Issued by the Funding & Tenders Portal Submission System. Application forms Proposal ID 101256226 Acronym AIRE2 Short name TALLINN UNIVERSITY Departments carrying out the proposed work Department 1 Department name School of Digital Technologies not applicable Same as proposing organisation's address Street Narva mnt 25 Town Tallinn Postcode 10120 Country Estonia Links with other participants Type of link Participant Page 25 of 45 Last saved 13/05/2025 13:27 This proposal version was submitted by Annela Hendrikson on 13/05/2025 13:27:06 Brussels Local Time. Issued by the Funding & Tenders Portal Submission System. Application forms Proposal ID 101256226 Acronym AIRE2 Short name TALLINN UNIVERSITY Main contact person The name and e-mail of contact persons are read-only in the administrative form, only additional details can be edited here. To give access rights and basic contact details of contact persons, please go back to step - Manage your related parties of the submission wizard and save the changes. Title Mr Gender Woman Man Non Binary First name Mustafa Last name Can Özdemir E-Mail [email protected] Position in org. Guest Lecturer & PhD Candidate Department School of Digital Technologies Same as organisation name Same as proposing organisation's address Street Narva Road 25 Town TALLINN Post code 10120 Country Estonia Website https://www.tlu.ee/en/dt Phone +37257828222 Phone 2 +xxx xxxxxxxxx Other contact persons First Name Last Name E-mail Phone Ingrid Hindrikson [email protected] +3725074225 Page 26 of 45 Last saved 13/05/2025 13:27 This proposal version was submitted by Annela Hendrikson on 13/05/2025 13:27:06 Brussels Local Time. Issued by the Funding & Tenders Portal Submission System. Application forms Proposal ID 101256226 Acronym AIRE2 Short name ETTEVOTLUSE JA INNOVATSIOONI SIHTASUTU PIC Legal name 971995291 ETTEVOTLUSE JA INNOVATSIOONI SIHTASUTUS Short name: ETTEVOTLUSE JA INNOVATSIOONI SIHTASUTUS Address Street SEPISE 7 Town TALLINN Postcode 11415 Country Estonia Webpage https://eas.ee/ Specific Legal Statuses Legal person .......................................................... yes Public body ............................................................ no Non-profit ............................................................... yes International organisation ................................ no Secondary or Higher education establishment ...... no Research organisation ........................................ no SME Data Based on the below details from the Participant Registry the organisation is unknown (small- and medium-sized enterprise) for the call. SME self-declared status...................................... unknown SME self-assessment ............................................ unknown SME validation sme .............................................. unknown Page 27 of 45 Last saved 13/05/2025 13:27 This proposal version was submitted by Annela Hendrikson on 13/05/2025 13:27:06 Brussels Local Time. Issued by the Funding & Tenders Portal Submission System. Application forms Proposal ID 101256226 Acronym AIRE2 Short name ETTEVOTLUSE JA INNOVATSIOONI SIHTASUTU Departments carrying out the proposed work Department 1 Department name Department of Innovation and Startups not applicable Same as proposing organisation's address Street SEPISE 7 Town TALLINN Postcode 11415 Country Estonia Links with other participants Type of link Participant Page 28 of 45 Last saved 13/05/2025 13:27 This proposal version was submitted by Annela Hendrikson on 13/05/2025 13:27:06 Brussels Local Time. Issued by the Funding & Tenders Portal Submission System. Application forms Proposal ID 101256226 Acronym AIRE2 Short name Estonian Electronics Industries Association PIC Legal name 936875568 EESTI ELEKTROONIKATOOSTUSE LIIT Short name: Estonian Electronics Industries Association Address Street Akadeemia tee 23 Town Tallinn Postcode 12618 Country Estonia Webpage www.estonianelectronics.eu Specific Legal Statuses Legal person .......................................................... yes Public body ............................................................ no Non-profit ............................................................... yes International organisation ................................ no Secondary or Higher education establishment ...... no Research organisation ........................................ no SME Data Based on the below details from the Participant Registry the organisation is unknown (small- and medium-sized enterprise) for the call. SME self-declared status...................................... unknown SME self-assessment ............................................ unknown SME validation sme .............................................. unknown Page 29 of 45 Last saved 13/05/2025 13:27 This proposal version was submitted by Annela Hendrikson on 13/05/2025 13:27:06 Brussels Local Time. Issued by the Funding & Tenders Portal Submission System. Application forms Proposal ID 101256226 Acronym AIRE2 Short name Estonian Electronics Industries Association Departments carrying out the proposed work No department involved Department name Name of the department/institute carrying out the work. not applicable Same as proposing organisation's address Street Please enter street name and number. Town Please enter the name of the town. Postcode Area code. Country Please select a country Links with other participants Type of link Participant Page 30 of 45 Last saved 13/05/2025 13:27 This proposal version was submitted by Annela Hendrikson on 13/05/2025 13:27:06 Brussels Local Time. Issued by the Funding & Tenders Portal Submission System. Application forms Proposal ID 101256226 Acronym AIRE2 Short name ESTONIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND IND PIC Legal name 999937111 MTU EESTI KAUBANDUS-TOOSTUSKODA Short name: ESTONIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY Address Street TOOM KOOLI 17 Town TALLINN Postcode 10130 Country Estonia Webpage www.koda.ee Specific Legal Statuses Legal person .......................................................... yes Public body ............................................................ no Non-profit ............................................................... yes International organisation ................................ no Secondary or Higher education establishment ...... no Research organisation ........................................ no SME Data Based on the below details from the Participant Registry the organisation is unknown (small- and medium-sized enterprise) for the call. SME self-declared status...................................... unknown SME self-assessment ............................................ unknown SME validation sme .............................................. unknown Page 31 of 45 Last saved 13/05/2025 13:27 This proposal version was submitted by Annela Hendrikson on 13/05/2025 13:27:06 Brussels Local Time. Issued by the Funding & Tenders Portal Submission System. Application forms Proposal ID 101256226 Acronym AIRE2 Short name ESTONIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND IND Departments carrying out the proposed work No department involved Department name Name of the department/institute carrying out the work. not applicable Same as proposing organisation's address Street Please enter street name and number. Town Please enter the name of the town. Postcode Area code. Country Please select a country Links with other participants Type of link Participant Page 32 of 45 Last saved 13/05/2025 13:27 This proposal version was submitted by Annela Hendrikson on 13/05/2025 13:27:06 Brussels Local Time. Issued by the Funding & Tenders Portal Submission System. Application forms Proposal ID 101256226 Acronym AIRE2 Short name MTU EESTI MASINATOOSTUSE LIIT PIC Legal name 920669778 MTU EESTI MASINATOOSTUSE LIIT Short name: MTU EESTI MASINATOOSTUSE LIIT Address Street KADAKA TEE 72A Town TALLINN Postcode 12618 Country Estonia Webpage www.emliit.ee Specific Legal Statuses Legal person .......................................................... yes Public body ............................................................ no Non-profit ............................................................... yes International organisation ................................ no Secondary or Higher education establishment ...... no Research organisation ........................................ no SME Data Based on the below details from the Participant Registry the organisation is not an SME (small- and medium-sized enterprise) for the call. SME self-declared status...................................... 10/03/1997 - no SME self-assessment ............................................ unknown SME validation sme .............................................. unknown Page 33 of 45 Last saved 13/05/2025 13:27 This proposal version was submitted by Annela Hendrikson on 13/05/2025 13:27:06 Brussels Local Time. Issued by the Funding & Tenders Portal Submission System. Application forms Proposal ID 101256226 Acronym AIRE2 Short name MTU EESTI MASINATOOSTUSE LIIT Departments carrying out the proposed work No department involved Department name Name of the department/institute carrying out the work. not applicable Same as proposing organisation's address Street Please enter street name and number. Town Please enter the name of the town. Postcode Area code. Country Please select a country Links with other participants Type of link Participant Page 34 of 45 Last saved 13/05/2025 13:27 This proposal version was submitted by Annela Hendrikson on 13/05/2025 13:27:06 Brussels Local Time. Issued by the Funding & Tenders Portal Submission System. Application forms Proposal ID 101256226 Acronym AIRE2 Short name ITL PIC Legal name 935207556 EESTI INFOTEHNOLOOGIA JA TELEKOMMUNIKATSIOONI LIIT Short name: ITL Address Street LOOTSA 2B Town TALLINN Postcode 11415 Country Estonia Webpage www.itl.ee Specific Legal Statuses Legal person .......................................................... yes Public body ............................................................ no Non-profit ............................................................... yes International organisation ................................ no Secondary or Higher education establishment ...... no Research organisation ........................................ no SME Data Based on the below details from the Participant Registry the organisation is unknown (small- and medium-sized enterprise) for the call. SME self-declared status...................................... unknown SME self-assessment ............................................ unknown SME validation sme .............................................. unknown Page 35 of 45 Last saved 13/05/2025 13:27 This proposal version was submitted by Annela Hendrikson on 13/05/2025 13:27:06 Brussels Local Time. Issued by the Funding & Tenders Portal Submission System. Application forms Proposal ID 101256226 Acronym AIRE2 Short name ITL Departments carrying out the proposed work No department involved Department name Name of the department/institute carrying out the work. not applicable Same as proposing organisation's address Street Please enter street name and number. Town Please enter the name of the town. Postcode Area code. Country Please select a country Links with other participants Type of link Participant Page 36 of 45 Last saved 13/05/2025 13:27 This proposal version was submitted by Annela Hendrikson on 13/05/2025 13:27:06 Brussels Local Time. Issued by the Funding & Tenders Portal Submission System. Application forms Proposal ID 101256226 Acronym AIRE2 Short name Tallinna Ettevõtlusamet PIC Legal name 949790342 Tallinna Ettevõtlusamet Short name: Tallinna Ettevõtlusamet Address Street Vabaduse väljak 7 Town Tallinn Postcode 15199 Country Estonia Webpage www.tourism.tallinn.ee Specific Legal Statuses Legal person .......................................................... yes Public body ............................................................ no Non-profit ............................................................... no International organisation ................................ unknown Secondary or Higher education establishment ...... unknown Research organisation ........................................ unknown SME Data Based on the below details from the Participant Registry the organisation is unknown (small- and medium-sized enterprise) for the call. SME self-declared status...................................... unknown SME self-assessment ............................................ unknown SME validation sme .............................................. unknown Page 37 of 45 Last saved 13/05/2025 13:27 This proposal version was submitted by Annela Hendrikson on 13/05/2025 13:27:06 Brussels Local Time. Issued by the Funding & Tenders Portal Submission System. Application forms Proposal ID 101256226 Acronym AIRE2 Short name Tallinna Ettevõtlusamet Departments carrying out the proposed work Department 1 Department name Centre for Entrepreneurship not applicable Same as proposing organisation's address Street Vabaduse väljak 7 Town Tallinn Postcode 15199 Country Estonia Links with other participants Type of link Participant Page 38 of 45 Last saved 13/05/2025 13:27 This proposal version was submitted by Annela Hendrikson on 13/05/2025 13:27:06 Brussels Local Time. Issued by the Funding & Tenders Portal Submission System. Application forms Proposal ID 101256226 Acronym AIRE2 Short name TARTU CITY PIC Legal name 996380024 TARTU LINN Short name: TARTU CITY Address Street RAEKODA Town TARTU Postcode 50089 Country Estonia Webpage www.tartu.ee Specific Legal Statuses Legal person .......................................................... yes Public body ............................................................ yes Non-profit ............................................................... yes International organisation ................................ no Secondary or Higher education establishment ...... no Research organisation ........................................ no SME Data Based on the below details from the Participant Registry the organisation is not an SME (small- and medium-sized enterprise) for the call. SME self-declared status...................................... 01/01/1900 - no SME self-assessment ............................................ unknown SME validation sme .............................................. 01/01/1900 - no Page 39 of 45 Last saved 13/05/2025 13:27 This proposal version was submitted by Annela Hendrikson on 13/05/2025 13:27:06 Brussels Local Time. Issued by the Funding & Tenders Portal Submission System. Application forms Proposal ID 101256226 Acronym AIRE2 Short name TARTU CITY Departments carrying out the proposed work Department 1 Department name Entrepreneurship Service not applicable Same as proposing organisation's address Street RAEKODA Town TARTU Postcode 50089 Country Estonia Links with other participants Type of link Participant Page 40 of 45 Last saved 13/05/2025 13:27 This proposal version was submitted by Annela Hendrikson on 13/05/2025 13:27:06 Brussels Local Time. Issued by the Funding & Tenders Portal Submission System. Application forms Proposal ID 101256226 Acronym AIRE2 3 - Budget ? No. Name of Country Role Personnel costs - Subcontracting Purchase costs - Purchase costs - Purchase costs - Internally Indirect Total eligible Ineligible costs/ Total estimated Funding rate Maximum EU Requested EU Max grant Income In kind Financial Own resources/ Total estimated beneficiary without costs/ Travel and Equipment/ Other goods, invoiced goods costs/ costs/ project costs and contribution to contribution to amount/ generated by the contributions/ contributions/ project income/ volunteers/ subsistence/ works and and services EUR contributions/ eligible costs/ eligible costs/ project/ EUR EUR EUR services/ EUR EUR EUR EUR EUR EUR EUR EUR EUR EUR EUR EUR EUR EUR Tallinna 1 EE Coordinator 1 966 603 186 271 52 088 0 218 012 0 169 608.18 2 592 582.18 0 2 592 582.18 50 1 296 291.09 1 166 661.88 1 166 661.88 0.00 0.00 1 425 920.09 0.00 2 592 581.97 Tehnikaülikool 2 Tartu Ulikool EE Partner 922 246 21 000 22 000 0 103 000 8 000 75 337.22 1 151 583.22 0 1 151 583.22 50 575 791.61 518 212.45 518 212.45 0.00 0.00 633 370.77 0.00 1 151 583.22 3 Eesti Maaulikool EE Partner 191 129 0 4 644 0 21 154 0 15 184.89 232 111.89 0 232 111.89 50 116 055.95 104 450.35 104 450.35 0.00 0.00 127 661.54 0.00 232 111.89 Sihtasutus Tallinna 4 EE Partner 428 765 28 431 27 350 0 22 000 0 35 458.22 542 004.22 0 542 004.22 50 271 002.11 243 902.00 243 902.00 0.00 0.00 298 102.44 0.00 542 004.44 Teaduspark Tehnopol Tartu Science 5 EE Partner 477 845 0 27 000 0 31 000 0 37 509.15 573 354.15 0 573 354.15 50 286 677.08 258 009.37 258 009.37 0.00 0.00 315 344.78 0.00 573 354.15 Park Foundation 6 Ou Imecc EE Partner 227 722 0 3 000 0 2 245 0 16 307.69 249 274.69 0 249 274.69 50 124 637.35 112 173.61 112 173.61 0.00 0.00 137 101.08 0.00 249 274.69 Tallinn 7 EE Partner 101 701 0 3 000 0 1 500 0 7 434.07 113 635.07 0 113 635.07 50 56 817.54 51 135.79 51 135.79 0.00 0.00 62 499.30 0.00 113 635.09 University Ettevotluse Ja 8 Innovatsiooni EE Associated 0 0 0 0 0 0 0.00 0.00 0 0.00 50 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Sihtasutus Eesti 9 Elektroonikatoo EE Associated 0 0 0 0 0 0 0.00 0.00 0 0.00 50 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 stuse Liit Mtu Eesti 10 Kaubandus- EE Associated 0 0 0 0 0 0 0.00 0.00 0 0.00 50 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 toostuskoda Mtu Eesti 11 Masinatoostuse EE Associated 0 0 0 0 0 0 0.00 0.00 0 0.00 50 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Liit Eesti Infotehnoloogia 12 Ja EE Associated 0 0 0 0 0 0 0.00 0.00 0 0.00 50 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Telekommunika tsiooni Liit Tallinna 13 EE Associated 0 0 0 0 0 0 0.00 0.00 0 0.00 50 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Ettevõtlusamet 14 Tartu Linn EE Associated 0 0 0 0 0 0 0.00 0.00 0 0.00 50 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Total 4 316 011 235 702 139 082 0 398 911 8 000 356 839.42 5 454 545.42 0 5 454 545.42 2 727 272.73 2 454 545.45 2 454 545.45 0.00 0.00 3 000 000.00 0.00 5 454 545.45 PG ver 1.00 20250220 Page 41 of 45 Last saved 13/05/2025 13:27 This proposal version was submitted by Annela Hendrikson on 13/05/2025 13:27:06 Brussels Local Time. Issued by the Funding & Tenders Portal Submission System. Application forms Proposal ID 101256226 Acronym AIRE2 4 - Other questions Ethics Issues Table 1. Human embryonic stem cells and human embryos Page Does this activity involve human embryonic stem cells (hESCs)? Yes No Does this activity involve the use of human embryos? Yes No 2. Humans Page Does this activity involve human participants? Yes No Does this activity involve interventions (physical also including imaging technology, Yes No behavioural treatments, tracking and tracing etc.) on the study participants? 3. Human cells / tissues Page Does this activity involve the use of human cells or tissues (not covered by section 1)? Yes No 4. Personal data Page Does this activity involve processing of personal data? Yes No 44 Does it involve the processing of special categories of personal data (e.g. sexual lifestyle, ethnicity, genetic, biometric and health data, political opinion, religious or Yes No philosophical beliefs)? Does it involve processing of genetic, biometric or health data? Yes No Does it involve profiling, systematic monitoring of individuals, or processing Yes No of large scale of special categories of data or intrusive methods of data processing (such as, surveillance, geolocation tracking etc.)? Does this activity involve further processing of previously collected personal data (including Yes No use of preexisting data sets or sources, merging existing data sets)? Is it planned to export personal data from the EU to non-EU countries? Yes No Is it planned to import personal data from non-EU countries into the EU or from a non-EU Yes No country to another non-EU country? Does this activity involve the processing of personal data related to criminal convictions or offences? Yes No 5. Animals Page Does this activity involve animals? Yes No 6. Non-EU countries Page Will some of the activities be carried out in non-EU countries? Yes No In case non-EU countries are involved, do the activities undertaken in these countries raise Yes No potential ethics issues? It is planned to use local resources (e.g. animal and/or human tissue samples, genetic material, live animals, human remains, materials of historical value, endangered fauna or flora samples, Yes No etc.)? Is it planned to import any material (other than data) from non-EU countries into the EU or from a non-EU country to another non-EU country? Yes No For data imports, see section 4. Is it planned to export any material (other than data) from the EU to non-EU countries? Yes No For data exports, see section 4. PG ver 1.00 20250220 Page 42 of 45 Last saved 13/05/2025 13:27 This proposal version was submitted by Annela Hendrikson on 13/05/2025 13:27:06 Brussels Local Time. Issued by the Funding & Tenders Portal Submission System. Application forms Proposal ID 101256226 Acronym AIRE2 7. Environment, health and safety Page Does this activity involve the use of substances or processes that may cause harm to the environment, to animals or plants (during the implementation of the activity or further to the Yes No use of the results, as a possible impact)? Does this activity involve the use of substances or processes that may cause harm to humans, including those performing the activity (during the implementation of the activity or further Yes No to the use of the results, as a possible impact)? 8. Artificial intelligence Page Does this activity involve the development, deployment and/or use of Artificial Intelligence- based systems? Yes No if yes, detail in the self-assessment whether that could raise ethical concerns related to human rights and values and detail how this will be addressed. 9. Other ethics issues Page Are there any other ethics issues that should be taken into consideration? Yes No I confirm that I have taken into account all ethics issues above and that, if any ethics issues apply, I will complete the ethics self-assessment as described in the guidelines How to Complete your Ethics Self-Assessment PG ver 1.00 20250220 Page 43 of 45 Last saved 13/05/2025 13:27 This proposal version was submitted by Annela Hendrikson on 13/05/2025 13:27:06 Brussels Local Time. Issued by the Funding & Tenders Portal Submission System. Application forms Proposal ID 101256226 Acronym AIRE2 Ethics Self-Assessment Ethical dimension of the objectives, methodology and likely impact Ethical dimension of the objectives, methodology and likely impact The AIRE project involves human participants in several planned activities that may include the collection and processing of personal data. The ethical considerations primarily arise from the following types of engagement: 1. AI awareness-raising and training sessions, as well as feedback collection through face-to-face interviews and assessments with SMEs and public sector stakeholders. While most data will be non-sensitive and processed anonymously, some sessions may involve collecting personal information such as job roles or industry sectors to tailor support services. Appropriate informed consent procedures will be used, and data minimisation principles will be applied (D1.2 Data Management Plan). 2. Piloting and demonstration activities (test-before-invest) in manufacturing and related sectors, including edge-AI and federated service integrations. In some cases, these pilots may involve the testing of AI tools that process personal data (e.g. video analysis, employee feedback, or workflow tracking). Such pilots will comply with GDPR. All participants will be informed and consent will be obtained prior to participation. 3. Cross-border collaboration and matchmaking services, where SMEs’ representatives may be connected to other European stakeholders. Only necessary professional data (e.g. name, role, email) will be exchanged under clearly defined data sharing agreements. AIRE’s client management system complies with EU data protection regulations and safeguards confidentiality and security of information. The potential ethical risks are mitigated through robust governance measures: AIRE’s services are designed in compliance with the EU AI Act. For any health sector pilot or AI tools interacting with sensitive populations, ethical committee approvals and national legal compliance will be ensured. Furthermore, the AIRE team includes experts trained in ethical AI and data protection. Overall, the project respects fundamental rights, promotes responsible and human-centric AI, and contributes positively to the ethical deployment of digital technologies in SMEs. No vulnerable groups are directly targeted, or negative environmental impact created and all data processing will be done with transparency and accountability. Remaining characters 2675 Compliance with ethical principles and relevant legislation Compliance with ethical principles and relevant legislation The AIRE project fully adheres to the highest ethical standards and will ensure that all activities are carried out in accordance with EU and national legislation, including the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights and relevant regulations such as the EU AI Act and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). All services involving data collection or processing (e.g. skills trainings, surveys, test- before-invest pilots) will be conducted with full transparency, informed consent, and clear documentation (principles will be laid down in D1.2 Data Management Plan). Where medical pilots or sensitive data processing are involved, the project will apply procedures aligned with the Declaration of Helsinki, the Oviedo Convention, and national ethical guidelines, including prior approval by competent ethics committees where required. Personal data will only be processed when necessary and appropriate safeguards will be in place. All AIRE activities take place within the EU, and no tasks are planned outside the European Union. Remaining characters 3909 PG ver 1.00 20250220 Page 44 of 45 Last saved 13/05/2025 13:27 This proposal version was submitted by Annela Hendrikson on 13/05/2025 13:27:06 Brussels Local Time. Issued by the Funding & Tenders Portal Submission System. Application forms Proposal ID 101256226 Acronym AIRE2 Security issues table 1. EU Classified Information (EUCI)2 Page Does this activity involve information and/or materials requiring protection against Yes No unauthorised disclosure (EUCI)? Does this activity involve non-EU countries which need to have access to EUCI? Yes No 2. Misuse Page Does this activity have the potential for misuse of results? Yes No 3. Other Security Issues Page Does this activity involve information and/or materials subject to national security restrictions? Yes No If yes, please specify: (Maximum number of characters allowed: 1000) Are there any other security issues that should be taken into consideration? Yes No If yes, please specify: (Maximum number of characters allowed: 1000) Security self-assessment Not applicable Remaining characters 4985 2According to the Commission Decision (EU, Euratom) 2015/444 of 13 March 2015 on the security rules for protecting EU classified information, “European Union classified information (EUCI) means any information or material designated by an EU security classification, the unauthorised disclosure of which could cause varying degrees of prejudice to the interests of the European Union or of one or more of the Member States”. 3Classified background information is information that is already classified by a country and/or international organisation and/or the EU and is going to be used by the project. In this case, the project must have in advance the authorisation from the originator of the classified information, which is the entity (EU institution, EU Member State, third state or international organisation) under whose authority the classified information has been generated. 4EU classified foreground information is information (documents/deliverables/materials) planned to be generated by the project and that needs to be protected from unauthorised disclosure. The originator of the EUCI generated by the project is the European Commission. PG ver 1.00 20250220 Page 45 of 45 Last saved 13/05/2025 13:27 This proposal version was submitted by Annela Hendrikson on 13/05/2025 13:27:06 Brussels Local Time. Issued by the Funding & Tenders Portal Submission System. Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 Digital Europe Programme Application Form Technical Description (Part B) AI & Robotics Estonia 2.0 (EDIH) Version 1 May 13 2025 1 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 TECHNICAL DESCRIPTION (PART B) COVER PAGE Part B of the Application Form must be downloaded from the Portal Submission System, completed and then assembled and re-uploaded as PDF in the system. Page 1 with the grey IMPORTANT NOTICE box should be deleted before uploading. Note: Please read carefully the conditions set out in the Call document (for open calls: published on the Portal). Pay particular attention to the award criteria; they explain how the application will be evaluated. PROJECT Project name: AI & ROBOTICS ESTONIA 2.0 (EDIH) Project acronym: AIRE2 Katre Eljas, Tallinn University of Technology Coordinator contact: Email: [email protected], +372 5211 994 TABLE OF CONTENTS TECHNICAL DESCRIPTION (PART B)..............................................................................................................................2 COVER PAGE ..................................................................................................................................................................2 PROJECT SUMMARY .....................................................................................................................................................3 1. RELEVANCE ...............................................................................................................................................................3 1.1 Objectives and activities .........................................................................................................................................3 1.2 Contribution to long-term policy objectives, policies and strategies — Synergies ..................................................7 1.3 Digital technology supply chain.............................................................................................................................10 1.4 Financial obstacles ...............................................................................................................................................10 2. IMPLEMENTATION ...................................................................................................................................................12 2.1 Maturity .................................................................................................................................................................12 2.2 Implementation plan and efficient use of resources..............................................................................................15 2.3 Capacity to carry out the proposed work ..............................................................................................................22 3. IMPACT ......................................................................................................................................................................33 3.1 Expected outcomes and deliverables — Dissemination and communication .......................................................33 3.2 Competitiveness and benefits for society .............................................................................................................37 3.3 Environmental sustainability and contribution to European Green Deal goals .....................................................39 4. WORK PLAN, WORK PACKAGES, ACTIVITIES, RESOURCES AND TIMING ......................................................40 4.1 Work plan ..............................................................................................................................................................40 4.2 Work packages, activities, resources and timing ..................................................................................................41 Work Package 1 ...................................................................................................................................................42 Work Package 2 ...................................................................................................................................................45 Work Package 3 ...................................................................................................................................................48 Work Package 4 ...................................................................................................................................................51 Work Package 5 ...................................................................................................................................................54 Work Package 6 ...................................................................................................................................................57 Staff effort (n/a for Lump Sum Grants) .................................................................................................................60 Subcontracting (n/a for prefixed Lump Sum Grants) ............................................................................................61 Purchases and equipment ...................................................................................................................................62 Other cost categories ...........................................................................................................................................64 Timetable .............................................................................................................................................................64 5. OTHER .......................................................................................................................................................................66 2 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 5.1 Ethics ....................................................................................................................................................................66 5.2 Security .................................................................................................................................................................66 6. DECLARATIONS .......................................................................................................................................................66 ANNEXES .........................................................................................................................................................................67 #@APP-FORM-DEP@# #@PRJ-SUM-PS@# [This document is tagged. Do not delete the tags; they are needed for the processing.] PROJECT SUMMARY Project summary See Abstract (Application Form Part A). #§PRJ-SUM-PS§# #@REL-EVA-RE@# #@PRJ-OBJ-PO@# 1. RELEVANCE 1.1 Objectives and activities Objectives and activities Describe how the project is aligned with the objectives and activities as described in the Call document. How does the project address the general objectives and themes and priorities of the call? What is the project’s contribution to the overall Digital Europe Programme objectives? Based on AIRE EDIH 2022-2025 period, AI & Robotics Estonia EDIH (AIRE) (Project Acronym 2022 - 2025: AIRE, Project ID 101083677) has had an impactful start supporting local SME clients by triggering additional investments by €62M with public and private funding and piloted 54 test-before-invest demonstration pilots for validating novel artificial intelligence (AI) based solutions in manufacturing sector. To boost AI innovation in Europe and reduce fear of failure in investing in artificial intelligence, AIRE has organised AIRE Club networking events, webinars and trainings for 3000+ participants, including 5 collaboration events with other EDIHs (4 webinars attended by 120 unique international SMEs and 18 EDIHs; 1 AIRE club event attended by 9 EDIHs outside Estonia). Established in 2021, AIRE EDIH’s brand is now clearly visible and known in Estonia, and local SMEs know to turn to AIRE as a first-line EDIH AI one-stop shop in Estonia for information about AI related activities and inquiries relating strategic direction in SMEs, mid-caps and startups. The 2024 Draghi Report on European Competitiveness highlights the need to increase productivity and close the innovation gap across European SMEs and industrial ecosystems by accelerating the deployment of advanced technologies, particularly artificial intelligence. AIRE’s activities are targeted directly to mitigate these issues across sectors.1 AIRE is part of the action plan of implementing Estonia’s National White Paper on Artificial Intelligence and Data 2024–2030 strategies.2 The white paper aligns with European Union's (EU) Coordinated Plan on AI, European Data Strategy, EU AI Act and Digital Decade 2030, and AIRE is crucial contributor on Estonia’s behalf in activities regarding SME and research institutions collaboration. AIRE has by 2025 served 270 unique clients and has had participants from 1000+ private and public sector entities in cross-sector services (open-access services like AIRE club events and skills and training). With high participation rate of ecosystem and target group companies in AIRE’s services, the centre’s initial focus set on AI has been relevant for local SMEs looking for new technological solutions and investments. AIRE is directly contributing to Estonia’s long-term digital transformation, aligning with TAIE Development Plan 2021-2035 and is included in Estonia’s research, innovation and local SMEs and mid- 1 The future of European competitiveness: Report by Mario Draghi 2 Estonia’s National White Paper on Artificial Intelligence and Data 2024–2030 3 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 caps development strategies. AIRE’s mission is to enable ethical and innovative AI uptake and with this, AIRE plays a key role in executing Estonia’s vision of becoming a globally competitive digital nation.3 As AIRE has set clear focus on becoming top-level service provider in EU and Associated Countries for local and EDIH network SMEs in providing services relating to AI, AIRE has developed a service package for clients supporting the participation in EDIH network’s and EU AI Ecosystem services. AIRE is also contributing to the Digital Decade targets4 by strengthening SME AI adoption and addressing digital maturity caps identified in the DESI 2024 indicators (Estonia’s 6.9% AI uptake among SMEs vs 8% EU average) where EU 2030 target is 75% of companies using cloud services, AI and big data.5 By offering test-before-invest pilots, skilling pathways, and EU AI technology uptake through dedicated services and cross-border networking, AIRE’s activities support measurable progress towards the DESI index objectives and framework. AIRE has created a service package that is directly contributing to EU’s AI global leadership course set with AI Continent Action Plan.6 AIRE, as EDIH, continues its activities in driving the digitalisation and automation with AI uptake in Estonian manufacturing and its related value chain companies by bringing together the core institutions and competences in Estonia in the related field: universities, science parks, research centres, clusters and unions, innovation centres, funding institutions and government entities (ministries). AIRE’s objectives are directly aligned with the EDIH2 objective to reinforce AIRE's and EDIH network’s long-term sustainability.7 AIRE is increasing the adoption of European AI technologies8 in SMEs and enhances national and EU strategic autonomy by scaling the uptake of EU AI technologies through the EU AI infrastructure (AI-on-Demand Platform). Through cross-border collaboration, AIRE actively contributes to the EDIH network’s cohesion and impact by sharing use-cases, tools and service models with EDIHs. Moreover, AIRE’s service model is designed to ensure long-term service continuity beyond the co-financing period through participation in national and EU calls, public- private partnerships (PPPs), and alignment with national digitalisation financing framework (Digital Agenda 2030). AIRE EDIH 2025-2028 objectives: 1) AIRE is supporting at least 250 unique clients (SMEs, mid-caps) through core service work packages: test-before-invest, skills and training, support to find investments, innovation ecosystem and networking. Out of these 50% (125 clients) of AIRE EDIH unique clients will be receive EU AI infrastructure (cross-border) services. 2) Ensuring that at least 36 clients use services from EU-level AI infrastructures, such as the AI-on- Demand Platform, AI Factories, and federated services aligning with GAIA-X (European Association for Data and Cloud AISBL).9 3) AIRE’s clients will trigger at least €100m from additional public and private investments into AI- based solutions in manufacturing and related sectors by offering consultations, road mapping and funding access services to stimulate digital transformation. 4) At least 40 EU AI Ecosystem stakeholders will participate in cross-border service collaboration with other EDIHs through service mapping, matchmaking and joint activities. 5) Raise the digital maturity of Estonian SMEs by 15% by 2028, by delivering Digital Maturity Assessments (DMA) to at least 150 unique SMEs and conducting 250 DMA sessions in total across AIRE’s service period. 6) Ensuring that at least 100 clients adopt EU-developed AI tools and technologies, including those available via the AI-on-Demand Platform, open-source European AI libraries, DEP-funded tools, and ethical, trustworthy AI models aligned with the EU AI Act and the Coordinated Plan on AI. All services and KPIs are a subject to be adjusted during the project implementation according to the market demand. Primary target groups of AIRE (Estonian and EU clients): • Manufacturing industry SMEs and mid-caps (manufacturing industry expected up to 50% from all clients). 3 Estonian Research and Development, Innovation and Entrepreneurship Strategy 2021–2035 4 Europe’s Digital Decade: digital targets for 2030 5 Estonia 2024 Digital Decade Country Report 6 AI Continent Action Plan 7 Digital Europe Programme (DIGITAL) 8 AIRE defines EU AI technologies widely: it encompasses AI systems, tools, and applications that are developed within the EU, aligning with the EU regulatory, ethical, and data privacy standards. These technologies emphasize transparency, human-centric design, trustworthiness, and sustainability, reflecting the EU's commitment to protecting individual rights and promoting digital sovereignty. Also, they leverage EU-based research, open-source frameworks, and high-performance computing (HPC) infrastructures, supporting sectors from healthcare to manufacturing while ensuring global competitiveness. 9 European Association for Data and Cloud AISBL 4 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 • Related industry and value chain to manufacturing industry: logistics and transportation infrastructure companies, quality control providers, supply chain management, equipment maintenance providers, energy efficiency solution providers, ICT companies, etc. • Defence industry, agricultural robots and farm robots, AI and robotics for health technology. • Start-ups and spin-offs in the field of AI (expected 20 clients). • SMEs from all other key economic sectors concerning AI Act awareness raising and AI technologies made in Europe (expected from all economic sectors: 200 SMEs and 30 mid-caps). • Public sector entities (education institutions, public sector organisations) in networking activities (such as AIRE Club event in Estonia and in Europe, webinars for awareness raising and dissemination). • EU AI ecosystem and EDIHs’ customers across EU. AIRE is the bridging centre in Estonia for local clients expanding abroad, using EU AI Ecosystem and EDIH network services and adopting EU AI technologies (50 international clients). Cross-border service delivery with other EDIHs: AIRE EDIH is highly motivated to provide service cross-border to other clients in Europe and help Estonian companies to access the entire EU AI Ecosystem (especially EDIHs, but also TEF, AI Factories, AI on-demand platform, AI Academy, etc). Target is 50% (125 clients) of AIRE EDIH unique companies that receive any services of EU AI infrastructure service (to be monitored via AIRE CRM). During the 2022-2025 EDIH funding period, AIRE’s main target group – manufacturing industry, has been impacted by several crisis as COVID aftershocks, the Suez Canal obstruction, Russia-Ukraine war- induced energy crisis and supply chain disruptions, that have affected Estonian industry’s financial stability, operational continuity and competitiveness. The economic recession in 2024 was -0,3% and manufacturing industry revenue dropped by 7,1% between 2022 and 2023.10 Therefore, the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communications’ priority to focus the on automation and digitalisation in manufacturing industry with the uptake of AI-based solutions, has remained.11 To support the main target group inclusively, AIRE has included the direct value-chain ecosystem related to manufacturing industry in its primary target group – such as logistics, energy efficiency, ICT and quality control sectors – which are essential enablers of industrial resilience and green transformation. AIRE’s service package supports the testing and adoption of energy-efficient, AI-enabled solutions within these industries and hence, AIRE directly contributes to the objectives of the European Green Deal12, the EU Industrial Strategy,13 and the Digital Decade targets for sustainable and advanced production systems. AIRE remains cross-sectorial with supporting broader societal knowledge needs in AI domains in Digital Decade targets (AI skills; trustworthy, explainable and ethical AI) and Estonian AI-Leap programme.14 Including public sector in AIRE’s primary target group supports capacity-building actions under Digital Europe objectives.15 Primary target group activities targeted to EDIH customers across EU support directly the EU AI infrastructure service intake of Estonian and EU companies and enhances Estonia’s contribution to EU technological sovereignty. Description of activities All AIRE’s services (WPs: test-before-invest; skills and training; support to find investments; innovation ecosystem and networking) are designed to align with the AI Act and increased specialisation in AI in EU via AI compliance and risk management advisory for SMEs (AI helpdesk) and support the uptake and implementation of trustworthy, explainable and human-centric AI via trainings, networking, and dissemination and communication activities (see Figure 1). Through accelerating the use of EU-level AI services (clients´ integration with AI-on-Demand Platform) and guiding clients to adopt EU-developed AI tools, technologies, services and facilitating SMEs access to GAIA-X compatible federated services, AIRE is increasing the visibility of EU AI infrastructure in Estonia. More detailed description of AIRE’s role in Estonian and EU AI ecosystem is described in Section 1.2. Furthermore, AIRE is continuing to contribute to the digital maturity growth in local rural area SMEs. Currently, 58% of the clients are located outside of the capital region, Harju County. 10 Statistics Estonia Industry Overview 11 Economic Growth Plan 2025 by Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communications 12 European Green Deal targets 13 European Industrial Strategy 14 Estonia’s AI Leap Programme 15 Digital Europe Programme Objectives 5 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 Figure 1. AIRE’s activities supporting the EU AI infrastructure There are 12 services AIRE offers to its clients in 2025 - 2028. All AIRE services are directly targeted to achieve wider objectives of Estonian and EU strategies described above. Furthermore, all AIRE services are designed to support clients’ smooth journey in EU and Estonian AI ecosystem (see Figure 2). Figure 2: Services of AIRE 1) AI suitability assessment (T2.1) – includes on-demand intelligent robotisation suitability analysis, AI use-case lab testing and AI strategies. 2) Test before invest AI demo projects (T2.2) – pilots and experimentation supporting the validation of AI-based use cases in manufacturing and its related value chain sectors, provided by consortium partners’ labs and domain experts. 3) First-line AI helpdesk on AI innovation (T3.1) – entry point service that is providing all AI-related inquiries, impact analysis of demo projects, road mapping and follow-up road mapping, consulting on EU AI technologies and Digital Maturity Assessments (DMA). JRC’s methodology is used by default with all clients and consortium partner IMECC’s methodology combined with JRC’s methodology is used for manufacturing companies. 4-5) Skills and training (T3.3, T3.4) – trainings, workshop events and webinars are organised tailored for primary target group needs and related to AI and data related skills development. 6) AI Act awareness & Toolbox (T3.5) – consulting companies on EU AI Act (footnote link) and assisting SMEs, mid-caps and startups with compliance tools in collaboration with AI Regulatory Sandbox. 7-8) Consulting on access to public and private funding (T4.2, T4.3) – consulting service for public and private funds. AIRE is maintaining updated funding lists from EU measures and local measures. Facilitating investor access through Estonian Business Angels Network (EstBAN) and helping SMEs trigger public-private blended finance. 9) Matchmaking service for the SMEs (including the promotion of EU AI technologies) (T5.2) – mapping EDIH services for clients. Hosting and visiting EDIH centres for building service linkages and promoting trustworthy EU AI technologies. 10) Collaboration with EDIHs for cross-border service delivery (T5.3) – AIRE has signed Memorandum of Understanding’s (MoUs) with 14 and Letter of Intents (LoIs) with 4 EDIHs, with emphasis on continuing to build strong relationships based on primary target group needs with an aim to enable and deliver cross-border services (see Annex 7). AIRE is actively initiating collaboration and is looking to serve 125 international clients in its services (including awareness raising activities). 6 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 11) Consulting SMEs on access to EU AI Ecosystem (T5.4) – matchmaking clients with EU AI infrastructure service providers and assisting them in entering cross-border collaboration agreements. 12) AIRE Club events (T6.5) – on monthly basis, networking events take place with all stakeholders for sharing experiences, AIRE’s test-before-invest use-cases and other AI-related experiences. Promotes funding and testing opportunities and creates a platform for respective participants for two-way communication. All services and tasks are described in Section 4. All services and KPIs are a subject to be adjusted during the project implementation according to the market demand. #@COM-PLE-CP@# 1.2 Contribution to long-term policy objectives, policies and strategies — Synergies Contribution to long-term policy objectives, policies and strategies — Synergies Describe how the project contributes to long-term policy objectives of the call’s domain/area and to the relevant policies and strategies, and how it is based on a sound needs analysis in line with the activities at European and national level. What challenge does the project aim to address? The objectives should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-bound within the duration of the project. AIRE’s contribution to long-term policy objectives There are several recommendations by European-level strategies that Estonia must continue working on. The State of Digital Decade 2024 states ‘’Estonia shows great ambition to bringing the green and digital transitions together with the government aiming at ‘the greenest digital government in the world’ in its Digital Agenda 2030.’’16 Estonia needs to continue capitalising on opportunities presented by the green transition by integrating related initiatives into a wider framework’’ and empathises that ,,Although Estonia has already introduced green requirements into public procurement procedures, the country could develop a more extensive strategy that combines green and digital measures for the private sector.’’17 Thus, the Commission has two recommendations: 1) to continue developing a coherent approach to twinning the digital and green transitions and to promote improvements in energy and material efficiency of digital infrastructures, in particular data centres; 2) support the development and deployment of digital solutions that reduce the carbon footprint in other sectors, such as energy, transport, buildings, and agriculture, including the uptake of such solutions by SMEs. AIRE is committed to the European Green Deal goals by offering SMEs test-before-invest work package services that focus on the reduction of carbon footprint in manufacturing and its related industries: transport, smart environments, ICT and promotes green data infrastructures (i.e. sustainable edge nodes and low energy AI). AIRE has taken this domain as one of its strategic pillars and is aligning with these recommendations by offering testing and validating services for resource-efficient AI solutions in SMEs and mid-caps. The later have shown a lot of interest for such solutions in AIRE’s client base, especially in the manufacturing value-chain companies that provide solutions for the industry. Furthermore, AIRE is road mapping the clients for the use of green data infrastructures (local and EU), supporting the development of energy-efficient algorithms and guiding SMEs toward sustainable innovation practices. With such activities, AIRE’s service strategy aligns with twin digital and green transitions objectives. The DESI 2024 index highlights two main caps in the Digital Transformation of SMEs for progression: 1) The share of SMEs with at least a basic level of digital skills (55.9%) remains below the EU average (57.7%) and 2) The uptake of advanced digital technologies is also below the EU average, particularly in the areas of data analytics (25.6% of companies compared to the EU average of 33.2%) and artificial intelligence (6.9% of companies compared to the EU average of 8%).18 AIRE is at the core of addressing these challenges by supporting SMEs and mid-caps across sectors with awareness raising and offering skills and training services for SMEs by relating the importance of the matter to local businesses’ long-term competitiveness. Additionally, AIRE’s redesigned services are directly supporting the uptake of the advanced digital technologies in the field of AI: AI-based data analytics, HPC for AI model training, federated and decentralised AI architectures, cloud-based AI services and cybersecurity measures essential for the deployment of trustworthy and secure AI systems. Furthermore, the DESI index showcases a continuously drastic performance falling short – the coverage of edge node implementation related to digital infrastructures in industry. This shortfall limits the Estonia’s capacity to support low-latency, real-time applications required for new digital services in manufacturing, 16 Estonia’s Digital Agenda 2030 17 Council Recommendation on Economy, Budgetary, Employment and Structural Policies Estonia 18 Estonia 2024 Digital Decade Country Report 7 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 mobility, health, and smart environments, which are the key domains for AI applications. AIRE is positioned to address this cap by facilitating demand-driven use cases through 1) strong collaboration with industry solution providers and local ICT and manufacturing cluster to co-develop and validate edge- enabled architectures; 2) test-before-invest pilots; 3) SME experimentations with edge-AI solutions through EU AI infrastructure. Such efforts are also aligned with Estonia’s Recovery and Resilience Plan (RRP), which prioritises digital transformation of the private sector, including SME digital skills, AI solutions deployment, and regional innovation support.19 These are the areas where AIRE also serves as an implementation partner by offering services that directly contribute to Estonia’s national objectives. With this, AIRE directly contributes to the EU’s digital sovereignty objectives and supports the ambition of achieving full digital coverage under the Digital Decade targets. Furthermore, these efforts generate synergies with EU Data Strategy,20 Digital Europe Programme (DEP), Horizon Europe21 and IPCEI22 frameworks in advancing resilient and decentralised computing capabilities and bridging regional disparities in access to high-performance digital infrastructure. AIRE is functioning as regional node of EU AI innovation ecosystem and is supporting the adoption of EU AI technologies via synergies created with AI Factories, AI Testing and Experimentation Facilities, AI on-Demand Platform, AI Regulatory Sandboxes and AI Skills Academy. More importantly, the core of AIRE’s awareness raising services, including the promotion of ethical and responsible AI and enabling green digital innovation, follow the human-centric and sustainable digital transition principles (Digital Decade). Local manufacturing and industrial companies are still at the core of Estonia’s Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communications prioritisation strategy23 and AIRE is continuing the support provided to its main target group through green AI-based digitalisation solutions in manufacturing and its value-chain companies, resource efficiency and access to services in rural areas (European Green Deal). Synergies with collaboration partners and local/international organisations AIRE, as a national AI competence consortium, is uniting leading universities, science parks, and research institutions to accelerate green AI-solutions uptake in digitalisation and automation of the manufacturing sector and its related value chain SMEs. Figure 3: AIRE’s collaboration ecosystem Through test-before-invest services, AIRE enables SMEs and mid-caps to pilot and adopt novel AI solutions, including digital twins, predictive maintenance, Internet of Things (IoT) and edge node automation. The consortium partners ensure access to high-performance computing (e.g. LUMI and other AI Factories), scientific expertise, and related EU AI infrastructure, while supporting the testing and validation of scalable AI-based innovations that can be transformed across sectors. AIRE’s direct action steps link with the EU AI ecosystem, the Joint Research Centre’s (JRC) Innovation Radar 19 Estonia’s Recovery and Resilience Plan 20 European Union Data Strategy 21 The second Horizon Europe strategic plan 2025-2027 22 Important Projects of Common European Interest (IPCEI) 23 Estonia’s Economic Development Plan 2025 8 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 framework, national and EU funding calls, support long-term impact via maintaining the centres sustainability and cross-border dissemination of use-cases. In Estonia, AIRE actively shares clients and directs them according to respective need between collaboration partners: Estonian Business and Innovation Agency, Federation of Estonian Engineering Industry, ICT cluster, Regional Development Centre’s Network, Environmental Investment Centre, The Estonian Employers’ Confederation, Estonian Chambre of Commerce and Industry, Industry unions. Internationally, AIRE has been building synergies with 20+ EDIHs across the network and has been an active participant in finding services in demand to its clients from EDIH synergies. Close collaborations regarding service exchange have been built with ARIC EDIH, FAIR EDIH, NN EDIH, ShiftLabs EDIH, Robocoast EDIH, to name the few. AIRE has been supporting its clients with Enterprise Europe Network (EEN) services and is enhancing the EU-level cooperation through partnerships with EU AI innovation ecosystem platforms. For the implementation of reliable, trustworthy and ethical AI solutions, AIRE offers a cross-sectorial toolbox for all companies in Estonia in collaboration with the Estonian Ministry of Justice and Digital Affairs. Additionally, regarding synergies in EDIH collaboration, AIRE has been an active participant in Nordic Manufacturing EDIHs work group that has mutually signed a MoU for the upcoming EDIH2 period and committing to following activities: developing and offering joint services in areas such as digital twins and virtual testbeds for enabling companies to simulate and optimize manufacturing processes before implementation; conducting joint training activities in lessons learned, use-cases (i.e. webinars) and ecosystem events; support SMEs in expanding internationally by facilitating market access, international partnerships, and integrating them into the European AI ecosystem; continue to enhance competitiveness and sustainability within the Nordic manufacturing sector in line with the goals of the EDIH network. AIRE’s and Estonia’s expertise is available to EDIHs customers and AIRE has set an objective to serve 125 EDIH clients via activities set in the Annex 7. In EDIH collaboration, AIRE will contribute to a co-funded cross- border testing-and-validation project to boost cross-border initiatives. Activities towards this direction have been taken with ARIC EDIH that is looking for testing and experimenting use-cases within AIREs clients and is joining to Latitude59 startup event held in May 2025 in Tallinn. Additionally, AIRE has joined New Nordics AI Centre.24 New Nordics AI initiative is a collaborative effort to establish a Nordic- Baltic AI Centre focused on the responsible development and use of AI, whilst enhancing regional competitiveness and address societal challenges through increased regional cooperation and strategic investment. Furthermore, AIRE is focusing on promoting and expanding its clients to uptake EU-developed trustworthy and secure AI-compliant tools (including federated infrastructures) that support the goals of EU Industrial Strategy, Coordinated Plan on AI, EU Data Strategy, European Green Deal, Strategic Technologies. The rooted GDPR practices will be thoroughly continued across all AIRE’s activities. Finally, as public-private partnerships (PPPs) form a critical pillar of AIRE’s long-term sustainability model: AIRE, industry stakeholders and public institutions ensure that services remain market-relevant, co-financed, and strategically guided after the initial EU support. AIRE has already formalized collaboration with financial institutions, corporations (ABB, Ericsson), and SME representatives through its Supporters Club, where private partners contribute financially and strategically to the centre's operations. PPPs allow AIRE to co-design services with end-users, secure long-term co- investments, and contribute to national public objectives (Estonia’s Digital Agenda 2030) and the interests of private sector actors seeking AI-based transformation. The current feedback from stakeholders and collaboration partners to AIREs activities has been highly supportive and confirming the AIRE EDIH values. Thus, the continuing collaborations ensure that AIRE evolves as an anchored hub, fully embedded in Estonia’s digital innovation ecosystem. AIRE’s sustainability and long-term value creation Since AIRE’s creation in 2021, AIRE is established as an ambitious and agile AI centre that will operate globally and is sustainable by 2028+. AIRE is efficiently and transparently run competence centre that supports EU AI Innovation with state, EU support and private investments. To be globally competitive vis- à-vis US and Asia, European start-ups and SMEs need and will always need certain state aid to boost high risk and deep-tech AI innovation. AIRE EDIH aims to be an excellent and well-run partner for the Estonian state to support that mission by combining strategic state aid with private triple helix funding. By 2030 AIRE aims to include at least 30% of funding from private stakeholders. 24 New Nordics AI Centre 9 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 Therefore, AIRE has been focusing on the long-term sustainability beyond the EDIH2 funding period and has included itself in several activities supporting this objective: 1) AIRE launched a public-private campaign to include private funding from spring 2024; 2) AIRE is seeking actively other public funds from state and EU for AIRE as a centre and for our clients (including Horizon, DEP, Interreg, ERF, etc). Our consortium partners have other state and EU funding for AI innovation in about €50m, our clients (SMEs) have fund-raised €62m during 2022-2025. 3) AIRE joined ADRA consortium to strengthen collaboration with EU ecosystem;25 4) AIRE enables collaborative spaces that encourage cross-industry collaboration, serving as a hub for knowledge sharing and idea generation. 5) AIRE as a strategic enabler and globally visible EDIH centre, brings global large corporations for long-term entrepreneurship collaboration with universities (collaboration discussions with Lufthansa, Airbus, Siemens, ABB, Bosch, Volkswagen, FESTO, FASTEMS, KUKA, etc). In order to drive innovation and economic growth, AIRE connects large global corporations with university research teams to work on specific technological challenges or explore new areas of innovation supported by private sector AI engineers. Through additional funding, AIRE is building up its agile management structure: new positions for Innovation Manager, Business Development Manager and a new COO were hired in 2025 to build up a sustainable centre by 2028 based on the triple-helix governance model. In addition, the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communications of Estonia is funding AIRE’s activities aligned with national priorities and Ministry of Justice and Digital Affairs is hosting Estonia’s AI Regulatory Sandbox to support AIRE. The vision of AIRE 2028+ will be developed by M18 and presented in the sustainability plan. For 2025-2028 and beyond, AIRE is currently preparing a financial strategy, combining participation in EU collaborative calls (i.e. Horizon Europe, DIGITAL, STEP), national innovation funding and growing private co-financing through AIRE Supporters Club. With these steps, AIRE ensures integration into Estonia’s digital innovation ecosystem and its continued relevance to EU-level policy goals. #§COM-PLE-CP§# 1.3 Digital technology supply chain Digital technology supply chain Explain to what extent the project would reinforce and secure the digital technology supply chain in the EU. This criterion might not be applicable to all topics — for details refer to the Call document. Not applicable. 1.4 Financial obstacles Financial obstacles Describe to what extent the project can overcome financial obstacles such as the lack of market finance. This criterion might not be applicable to all topics — for details refer to the Call document. Despite Estonia’s strong ambition in digitalisation and automation, substantial financial constraints persist in industrial innovation. Recent Analysis of Estonia’s Export and Competitiveness by the Ministry of Finance (2024) highlights systemic barriers in Estonia’s competitiveness among SMEs, including limited access to funding for technology-intensive business development and structural vulnerabilities in export performance.26 The report states that while the companies have shown growth in export market diversification, the access to capital remains a critical bottleneck, particularly in innovation-heavy sectors like manufacturing and electronics, where unit cost growth and supply-side pressures have eroded margins. Regarding the manufacturing industry’s value-chain (ICT, logistics, etc) that are also AIRE’s target group, ‘’The success of SMEs is possible if they are provided with access to funding and advisory services.’’ AIRE’s role continues to be strategically important as acting as an enabler of access to funding 25 The AI, Data and Robotics Association 26 Analysis of Estonia’s Export and Competitiveness by the Ministry of Finance (2024) 10 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 through guidance on EU and national funding options. In addition to the general financing constraints across industry, the analysis reports that ICT and electronics sector (CN85) – a key pillar of Estonia’s industrial exports – faces emerging structural challenges. The Ministry of Finance’s 2024 export competitiveness analysis also states that CN85 products (including electrical machinery, ICT, and telecoms equipment) accounted for 14% of Estonia’s total exports to the EU. While Estonia has retained or grown its market share in key trading partners such as Finland and Germany, the rising unit costs and competitive pressure from countries with lower production costs is exposing its positions. AIRE can further enhance competitiveness in CN85-linked industries by promoting the adoption of AI-enabled quality control, predictive maintenance, and edge computing in smart electronics production through funding measures and collaboration with banks. Additionally, regarding high-risk digital innovations, the mentioned analysis states that Estonian Government and EU funding programs should be more accessible and designed specifically for early-stage digital innovators. Such system should include grants, subsidies, or tax incentives for companies engaged in high-risk projects. The analysis further highlights that there is a need for financial institutions and investors to develop more tailored funding solutions that cater to the risks and timelines associated with digital, including AI innovations. AIRE, in collaboration with funding ecosystem stakeholders like Estonian Business and Innovation Agency and InnoTrepp (Estonia’s Innovation Staircase programme), have recently developed a framework 27 and platform 28 for local SMEs that help navigate the innovation funding landscape through structured readiness levels. Such ecosystem collaboration activities enable high-risk digital innovation SMEs to access available funding more efficiently and thus, reduce investment risk. This directly addresses the core criteria under EDIH2 call under enabling SMEs to overcome the lack of market finance for high-risk AI-based innovation. The Council has also recommended that Estonia must ’Preserve nationally financed public investment and ensure the effective absorption of grants under the Facility and of other Union funds, to foster the green and digital transitions. According to the Commission’s 2024 forecast, nationally financed public investment is projected to increase from 5,8 % of GDP in 2023 to 6,3 % of GDP in 2024.’29 AIRE will continue with renewed practices and is aiming for clients to successfully trigger €100m during 2025-2028 period. AIRE will proactively identify and analyse upcoming funding calls from both national and European sources, focusing on programs aligned with its clients' needs and AIRE's areas of expertise (AI, robotics, HPC computing, digital transformation). AIRE will continue providing tailored client support, matching clients specific project requirements with the most suitable funding opportunities, including assistance with proposal writing, budget development, and navigating the application process. AIRE will also strengthen existing partnerships with kfey stakeholders, such as the Estonian Business and Innovation Agency (EBI), consortium partners, especially research institutions, and other EDIHs, to expand its network and access more funding opportunities. AIRE will effectively communicate the impact of its services and success stories to potential clients and funding bodies, showcasing the value proposition and return on investment. To ensure a focused approach, AIRE is conducting targeted outreach to SMEs in specific sectors with high potential for digital transformation, particularly those companies ready to adopt AI. AIRE will continuously monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of its funding support services, identifying areas for improvement and adapting to the evolving funding landscape. AIRE also helps leverage private investment through investor matchmaking, co-investment schemes, and collaboration with venture capital firms. Recognising the strong potential of public-private co-investment, AIRE facilitates investor connections and supports blended financing models. This enables SMEs to combine public grants with private capital, and accelerate the scaling of EU-made AI technology and ensuring long-term sustainability. AIRE has also worked on SME investment readiness by supporting early-stage de- risking through DMAs, advisory and financial planning tools, including newly developed AI-based return on investment (ROI) assessment tool. AIRE has developed a risk mitigation tool for all AI project planners that will help to plan and map out the required investment need for AI project implementation and calculate potential ROI, as it is essential for SMEs, mid-caps and startups to develop protective strategies and business models. AIRE has developed the tool on the Mixtral architecture for local and EU businesses to support calculating ROI for AI project funding, implementation and adoption. This tool will be open to use for all EDIHs clients across Europe. In response to financial and technological dependency risks, AIRE plays a key role in strengthening Estonia’s digital and industrial sovereignty. Many Estonian SMEs face funding challenges in adopting high-risk or frontier technologies, particularly when such solutions are dependent on costly or closed-source systems from non-EU providers. AIRE mitigates these constraints by promoting access to affordable, 27 Estonia’s Innovation Staircase programme 28 Platform for SMEs to navigate the innovation funding landscape through structured readiness levels 29 Council Recommendation on Economy, Budgetary, Employment and Structural Policies Estonia 11 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 interoperable, and secure European technologies, and by supporting early-stage testing and adoption to de-risk investment decisions. AIRE facilitates the testing and adoption of EU-developed AI solutions and thus, directly contributes to reducing dependence on third-country vendors and proprietary systems. Through prioritising open-source, secure, and privacy-compliant technologies developed within Europe, AIRE promotes EU cloud and data infrastructures, including AI Factories and federated decentralised services (GAIA-X). With road mapping, AIRE strengthens the Estonian ability to design digital solutions (AI models, software architectures) and enables the deployment of these solutions via guiding to set up these solutions (e.g. cloud or edge services, integrate systems) and maintain them with scaling. Furthermore, AIRE contributes to technological resilience by enabling SMEs to adopt EU standards via EU AI-on-Demand Platform and advisory and thus, avoid vendor lock-in. To reduce the technological dependency risks, AIRE collaborates with Estonian and European providers of semiconductors, AI chips, and edge computing to reinforce the strategic autonomy of local target groups. With such mentioned actions, AIRE is aligned with the financing goals of Digital Europe Programme, the Strategic Technologies for Europe Platform (STEP), and EU AI and Industrial Strategy. AIRE's is connecting Estonian SMEs with valuable cross-border funding opportunities through European programs (Digital Europe and Horizon Europe). AIRE's direct participation in European consortia and its involvement in those calls provide SMEs with a crucial gateway to required resources. By being part of these networks, AIRE gains inside knowledge of upcoming funding opportunities, eligibility criteria, and successful proposal strategies. This direct involvement helps Estonian SMEs through the complex application processes and enables them to secure funding to scale their digital solutions across EU markets. AIRE is also strategically positioning itself to cascade funding to SMEs through European programs, further amplifying its impact on AI-focused and growth-enabling capacities with EBI. AIRE's activities, future and sustainability is fully and clearly integrated to national co-funding based on Estonian Research and Development, Innovation and Entrepreneurship Strategy 2021-2035 and its action plans. In addition, AIRE has launched the triple-helix funding programme for private sector financing. The goal is to raise 30% of private funding by 2030. Current EDIH application activities for 2025 – 2028 are co- funded by the Estonian Government up to 55%. All AIRE services are subject to state aid. #§PRJ-OBJ-PO§# #§REL-EVA-RE§# #@QUA-LIT-QL@# #@MAT-URI-MU@# 2. IMPLEMENTATION 2.1 Maturity Maturity Explain the maturity of the project, i.e. the state of preparation and the readiness to start the implementation of the proposed activities. The mission of the AIRE centre as the European Digital Innovation Hub (EDIH) is to drive innovation and technological advancement in applying artificial intelligence, fostering collaboration between academia and industry, and positioning Estonia as a leader in these cutting-edge technologies. Based on AIRE’s strategy, AIRE has outstanding ambition to: • Be an active European-level stakeholder in the field of knowledge transfer of artificial intelligence (TRL levels 6+) in collaboration of European universities, science-parks, innovation centres and clusters. • Foster economic impact - the goal is to double the productivity and added value in Estonia's SMEs (productivity boost through the digital maturity rate growth; reducing obstacles and growing knowhow and trust for large-scale AI investments). • Drive awareness raising in the field of AI (including legal and ethical aspects of trustworthy AI). In 2021, to establish AIRE centre, the preparation of services for EDIH started and first services were implemented with national funding. In 2022, after positive funding decision, AIRE started as EDIH centre in Estonia. In autumn 2022 AIRE launched seven services: (1) trainings and webinars, (2) Digital Maturity Assessment, (3) AI suitability assessment, (4) robotics suitability assessment, (5) demonstration projects, (6) finding sources of funding (public measures) and (7) finding sources of funding (private capital). By the end of 2022 AIRE was fully operational – management system was set up, procedures and roles were set up and described, client journey was mapped and described, integration of services was analysed and described, Advisory Board was set up and marketing strategy was laid down. Furthermore, to attract new customers and manage existing clients a comprehensive AIRE homepage was developed and Client Relations Management (CRM) system was set up. Management system involved six AIRE consortium 12 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 partners, coordinated by Tallinn University of Technology. Having said this, AIRE is fully prepared and ready for offering EDIH services 2025 – 2028. The main achievements of AIRE during 2022 – 2025 consist of: • AIRE has more than 270 unique clients; • More than 2200 participants have taken part of AIRE monthly clubs; • More than 1200 people have participated in trainings; • 61 test before invest demo projects have been carried out; • Collaboration established with key EDIH centres (10 centres selected for cross-border service provision from 2024); • AIRE’s clients have triggered additional investments about €62m and with pending applications about €2,5m, and according to market research within industrial companies, the investment growth has risen 10% during 2024 (The Swedbank 2025 Industrial Enterprise Report); • AIRE is one of the first EDIHs in Europe in terms of its performance (customer reach and service delivery); • AIRE is ranked first among EDIHs according to the number of customers per GDP30; • AIRE's digital maturity assessments have led to a measurable increase (up to 18%) in the digital maturity levels of participating SMEs; • AIRE has played a key role in fostering a digital innovation ecosystem in Estonia, bringing together technology providers, research institutions, investors, and end-users to collaborate and drive innovation. The direct link made between growing university collaborations (29% in year 2024) and AIRE's activities is a powerful indicator of AIRE's success. This demonstrates AIRE's ability to connect businesses with the research expertise needed to drive innovation; • AIRE's insights and expertise make AIRE an important contributor to policy discussions and a respected voice in shaping the future of Estonian an industry; • AIRE’s clients have participated in broader international collaboration via 3 EDIHs (client MindChip: ARIC EDIH – IP consultancy, NN EDIH – autonomous ferry development; client 5.0Robotics – CeADAR EDIH – clients’ product as service in EDIHs new consortium). Additionally, joint cross border service delivery includes ARIC, FAIR, ShiftLabs. • AIRE’s successful service delivery and client management system has been a trailblazer for other EDIHs that have fort monthly service delivery and cross-border customer need discussions for related areas with: NN EDIH, AI Boost EDIH, FAIR EDIH, ARIC EDIH, Robocoast EDIH and Nordic Manufacturing EDIH group with 10 active EDIHs participating monthly. The client journey at AIRE is designed to ensure a smooth and successful experience, from initial contact through to long-term support in their business optimisation journey. It focuses on understanding the client's unique needs, delivering customised solutions, and providing continuous support to maximise the value and impact of AI technologies. The client journey in AIRE follows a structured path designed to guide clients from initial contact through to several AIRE services. Here is a description of the typical AIRE client journey: 1. Awareness and Discovery – supporting processes: marketing, AIRE Clubs (Task 6.5), trainings/ webinars (Tasks 3.3, 3.4), First-line AI Helpdesk (Task 3.1), AI Act awareness (Task 3.5); 2. Engagement and Consultation - supporting processes: AI suitability assessment (Task 2.1), demonstration projects (Task 2.2), support to find funding (public and private) (Tasks 4.2, 4.3), matchmaking with SMEs (Task 5.2), collaboration with EDIHs for cross-border service delivery (Task 5.3), consulting SMEs on EU AI Ecosystem (Task 5.4); 3. Attending the Service and Customisation – supporting processes: AI suitability assessment (Task 2.1), demonstration projects (Task 2.2), support to find funding public and private) (Tasks 4.2, 4.3), matchmaking with SMEs (Task 5.2), collaboration with EDIHs for cross-border service delivery (Task 5.3), consulting SMEs on EU AI Ecosystem (Task 5.4); 4. Support and Follow-up – supporting processes: feedback process, Digital Maturity Assessment, EDIH and national reporting, client management, AIRE Clubs (Task 6.5). 30 EDIH Networks’s activities and customers 13 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 Figure 4. AIRE’s client journey AIRE uses an electronic CRM system to manage client relationships, ensuring efficient registration and tracking of client interactions. Consistent follow-up and support throughout the service lifecycle and personalised engagement is provided through dedicated client relationship managers. Furthermore, AIRE’s processes are transparent and consistent. There is clear documentation system in place - detailed overview reports are generated for each service. There is continuous feedback loop in place - client experiences are documented and reviewed to continuously improve service quality. As AIRE has well-functioning management system in place, we will continue offering already established services since 1 September 2025. The key aspects presenting AIRE’s readiness to implement the project and offer services: • Strategic vision and alignment - AIRE has clear strategy for 2025 – 2028, AIRE is integrated into national strategy documents (National Strategy “Estonia 2035”; R&D, Innovation and Entrepreneurship Strategy 2035; Digital Society 2030; White Book of Data and AI; AI Action Plan 2024 – 2026) and has good ties with ecosystem on operational level (Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communications, Ministry of Justice, Estonian Research Council, Business Innovation Agency, Chamber of Commerce, Business organisations, municipalities and others). Also, AIRE has tight collaboration with 18 EDIHs across the Europe. • Outstanding operational track record – AIRE service centre, management system and client management systems are well functioning, established connections with AI and entrepreneurship ecosystems in Estonia and Europe. AIRE focuses on advancing AI technologies at TRL 6 and above, facilitating collaboration between academia, science parks, industry clusters and businesses. • Comprehensive service offerings – AIRE offers services to SMEs supporting them to increase competitiveness through digitalisation with AI technologies. During 2022 – 2025 AIRE has been offering nine services, and 12 services will be offered during 2025 – 2028. AIRE brings clear impact to its clients – during 2022 -2025 AIRE clients have triggered additional investments for about €62m, their annual expected turnover after investment would increase by 23%, cost saving by 26% and increase in added value per employee by 51% (based on AIRE’s own impact assessment provided in 2025). • Collaborative consortium and ecosystem development – AIRE has well-functioning consortium led by Tallinn University of Technology. AIRE's consortium includes the University of Tartu, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tehnopol Science and Business Park, Tartu Science Park, and IMECC. For services 2025 – 2028 the consortium will be expanded by Tallinn University, who was so far been involved as associated partner. Thus, AIRE will continue with seven consortium partners. As said earlier, AIRE already has good connections with ecosystem players and we will actively foster public-private partnerships, bridging the gap between research and real-world applications, and enhancing Estonia's position as a digitally advanced nation. AIRE's established infrastructure, strategic vision, and comprehensive service offerings position it as a mature and capable entity ready to implement EDIH services effectively from 2025 to 2028. Its alignment with national and European digital strategies ensures that it will continue to play a pivotal role in advancing AI adoption among Estonian SMEs and beyond. Furthermore, AIRE is looking for expanding its services beyond EDIH and is actively looking for collaboration projects with other EDIHs on 14 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 cross-border services. Also, the aim of current business development activities is to find donors from business sector (large companies, commercial banks) as well as public bodies (i.e. municipalities) to offer wider range of services on AI and robotics. These activities and services will complement EDIH services and bears an aim of AIRE becoming a sustainable service centre. #§MAT-URI-MU§# #@CON-MET-CM@# #@PRJ-MGT-PM@# #@FIN-MGT-FM@# #@RSK-MGT-RM@# 2.2 Implementation plan and efficient use of resources Implementation plan Show that the implementation work plan is sound by explaining the rationale behind the proposed work packages and how they contribute to achieve the objectives of the project. Explain the coherence between the objectives, activities, planned resources and project management processes. Provide details (including architecture and deliverables) about pre-existing technical solutions. AIRE functions as service centre with dedicated KPIs. AIRE’s services are aimed to accelerate the digital transformation of Estonian SMEs through the adoption of AI and robotics technologies, thereby increasing their competitiveness and contributing to the growth of the Estonian economy. A significant barrier to AI adoption among Estonian SMEs is a lack of awareness and understanding of AI technologies. WP3 addresses this barrier by providing targeted training and skill development programs. WP3 directly contributes to the project's objective by equipping SMEs with the knowledge and skills necessary to identify opportunities for AI adoption and develop effective technology strategies. This ultimately accelerates their digital transformation. WP2 (Test Before Invest) relies on the foundational knowledge established in WP3, ensuring that SMEs are well-informed before engaging in technology selection and testing. Investing in AI technologies can be a significant financial risk for SMEs. WP2 mitigates this risk by providing a 'test before invest' environment where companies can assess the feasibility and impact of specific AI solutions before making a full-scale investment. WP2 directly contributes to the project's objective by reducing the financial risk associated with AI adoption, enabling SMEs to make informed investment decisions, and accelerating the implementation of proven AI solutions. While WP3 and WP2 cater to SMEs in the early stages of their digital transformation journey, it is crucial to provide growth opportunities for more digitally mature companies. Access to the EU AI Ecosystem unlocks opportunities for these SMEs to engage in cross-border collaborations, access specialized expertise, and tap into new markets, thereby accelerating their growth in the digital space. Therefore, we will expand our services with offering access to EU AI Ecosystem services (WP 5 Innovation ecosystem and networking opportunities). AIRE will facilitate this access through a multi-pronged approach: (1) a curated online platform providing a comprehensive directory of relevant EU initiatives and resources; (2) personalized consultations to identify the most suitable ecosystem services for each SME based on their specific needs and growth objectives; and (3) matchmaking events bringing together Estonian SMEs with potential partners and investors from across Europe. By accessing EU AI Ecosystem services through AIRE, Estonian SMEs will benefit from: (1) increased opportunities to secure EU funding for AI innovation projects through facilitated access to relevant calls and proposal writing support; (2) expanded market reach through participation in European AI networks and platforms; (3) enhanced access to specialized AI talent and expertise through connections with leading research institutions and technology providers; and (4) accelerated product development through collaborative partnerships with other European companies. WP5 directly contributes to the AIRE project's overall objective of accelerating the digital transformation of Estonian SMEs by enabling them to leverage the resources and opportunities available within the broader European AI ecosystem. This aligns directly with the funding call's priority of fostering cross-border collaboration and innovation in the field of AI, as it facilitates the integration of Estonian SMEs into European AI networks and value chains. Access to funding is often a critical bottleneck for SMEs seeking to implement AI solutions. WP4 addresses this challenge by providing support in identifying and securing public and private investment. WP4 directly contributes to the project's objective by removing financial barriers to AI adoption, facilitating investment in innovative AI projects, and accelerating the deployment of AI technologies within Estonian SMEs. 15 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 Figure 5 AIRE service design to support companies on their path of technology adaptation As shown on Figure 5 AIRE services are designed in a way that they support each other and generate holistic impact to its clients. The integrity of AIRE services is maintained through a well- structured and comprehensive approach that ensures quality, reliability, and alignment with client needs. The service design supports achieving the main AIRE goals and KPIs (both outcome and impact). AIRE has structured service offering – AIRE services are interconnected and complement each other throughout the client journey. Each service is designed to meet specific needs of SMEs and Mid-Caps, ensuring tailored and effective solutions. Every service is custom-made. Before providing any service, the service lead conducts thorough check to ensure client eligibility and compliance with AIRE framework: SME status verification or Small Mid-cap check and state aid compliance. Integrity of AIRE services is ensured through a combination of rigorous eligibility checks, structured service offerings, expert involvement, comprehensive reporting, and integrated client management system. This approach guarantees that AIRE delivers high-quality, reliable, and impactful AI solutions with modern methodologies tailored to the specific needs of SMEs. As AIRE has well-functioning management system in place, we will continue offering already established services since 1 September 2025 (AIRE funding period 2022 – 2025 ends on 31 August 2025): • AI suitability assessment (Task 2.1) • Test before invest AI demo projects (Task 2.2) • Trainings and webinars (Tasks 3.3, 3.4) • Consulting on access to public funding (Task 4.2) • Consulting on access to private funding (Task 4.3) • AIRE Clubs (Task 6.5) In addition, AIRE will launch new services (will be designed and launched after 1 September 2025): • First-line AI Helpdesk (Task 3.1) • AI Act awareness and Toolbox (Task 3.5) • Matchmaking with SMEs (Task 5.2) • Collaboration with EDIHs on cross-border service delivery (Task 5.3) • Consulting SMEs on access to EU AI Ecosystem (Task 5.4) AIRE implementation work plan is designed based on Estonian target group needs and state priorities in digitalisation and AI, EDIH Work Programme 2025-2027, Digital Europe Programme 2025-2027, EDIH handbook, EDIH webinar materials and FAQ of the call. The implementation plan below presents the main linkages between objectives and WPs; however, every WP is contributing to achieving of each objective. Objective WPs and Tasks Planned resources Objective 1 WP 1 Management: Task 1.1 Strategic WP1 total budget Increase in digital management; Task 1.2 Organisation of the Advisory €715 744,41 linked to all maturity of AIRE Board for test before invest; Task 1.3 Organisation other WP-s to reach clients (KPI: 15%) 16 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 of monthly progress meetings with the consortium; actual impact and Task 1.4 Progress and impact monitoring. investments WP 6 Dissemination, communication and WP6 total budget €1 exploitation of results: task 6.1 Development of 058 355,73 linked to all the Dissemination and Communication Plan; Task other WP-s to reach 6.2 Implementation of the Dissemination and actual impact and Communication Plan; Task 6.3 Updating the aire- investments edih.eu webpage; task 6.4 Client relations management (i.e. Website and CRM management); Task 6.5 AIRE Clubs Objective 2 WP 2 Test before invest: Task 2.1 AI suitability WP2 total budget €2 Number of clients analysis; Task 2.2 Test before invest AI 033 913,99 linked to all using EU AI demoprojects; Task 2.3 Integration of AIRE results other WP-s to reach technologies with EU AI ecosystem actual impact and (KPI: 100) investments Objective 3 WP3 Training and skills development: Task 3.1 WP3 total budget €841 Increased number First-line AI helpdesk on AI innovation; Task 3.2 930,57 linked to all other of clients in AIRE Analysis of needs and the skills development plan; WP-s to reach actual services (KPI: Task 3.3 Organisation of trainings; Task 3.4 impact and investments 250, 50% cross- Organisation of webinars; Task 3.5 AI Act border clients) awareness & Toolbox Objective 4 WP4 Support to find investments: Task 4.1 WP4 total budget €339 Increased number Funding roadmap development; Task 4.2 Consulting 521,17 linked to all other of additional on access to funding (public funding); Task 4.3 WP-s to reach actual investments Consulting on access to funding (private funding); impact and investments successfully Task 4.4 Preparation and submission of funding triggered (KPI: proposals for EU collaboration of EDIHs etc. €100m) Objective 5 WP 5 Innovation ecosystem and networking WP5 total budget €465 Number of clients opportunities: Task 5.1 Strategic coordination of 079,78 linked to all other using EU AI AIRE EDIH role in EU AI Ecosystem; Task 5.2 WP-s to reach actual infrastructure Matchmaking with the SMEs (including for the impact and investments (KPI: 36) promotion of the AI technologies made in Europe); Task 5.3 Collaboration with EDIHs for cross-border Objective 6 service delivery; Task 5.4 Consulting SMEs on Increased number access to EU AI Ecosystem of collaborations with EDIHs (KPI: 40) All services and KPIs are a subject to be adjusted during the project implementation according to the market demand. AIRE consortium partners have outstanding experiences and knowledge on AI related projects (see Annex 4). Furthermore, in order to build sustainable AIRE centre with strong ties with ecosystem, a number of collaborations with ecosystem partners have been launched (see Figure 6). 17 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 Figure 6. Related projects and initiatives According to Estonian RDIE (Research and Development, Innovation and Entrepreneurship) Strategy 2030 AI innovation is supported through various state financial measures managed by ecosystem partners, all actively included in AIRE consortium either as partners or associated partners (total of 14 partners). EDIH funding is an instrument and collaboration platform to boost investments into AI in a holistic way to increase Estonian and European competitiveness globally. AI innovation is supported in various Estonian state research and entrepreneurship funding schemes (about €250m) where AIRE takes an active role to bring awareness to SMEs how to access funding: first, how to navigate in public funding schemes (applied research, product development, investments to technologies like robotics, acceleration support, funding for defence tech among others) based on company’s roadmap, and second, how to include private funding (equity, loans, etc). In addition to Estonian state funding targeted to our clients, AIRE’s consortium partners are actively involved in other AI schemes for ecosystem partners, like the Estonian Centre of Excellence in AI for globally known AI research (Tartu University and TalTech), AI Accelerator managed by Tehnopol, ESA BIC managed by Tartu Science Park, etc. AIRE is also involved and integrated into the Widening Teaming initiative initiated by TalTech in collaboration with Eindhoven University of Technology (2025 proposal stage) to build synergy. Negotiations are started with AI Sweden to include AIRE as the consortium partner to the new New Nordics AI centre for regional competitiveness. In conclusion, it is important to acknowledge that EDIH funding alone is not sufficient to boost AI innovation, it is extremely important to reach effective and open collaboration with the regional and EDIH ecosystem and collaborate together. Project management, quality assurance and monitoring and evaluation strategy Describe the measures planned to ensure that the project implementation is of high quality and completed in time. Describe the methods to ensure good quality of monitoring, planning and control activities. Describe the evaluation methods and indicators (quantitative and qualitative) to monitor and verify the outreach and coverage of the activities and results. The indicators proposed to measure progress should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-bound. The project governance structure is carefully designed to ensure sound project management and internal communication in the consortium, efficient monitoring of progress and quality control, as well as timely risk management and contingency actions. Regularity and efficiency of internal communication and clarity in the division of work at the level of specific tasks are crucial to ensure high-quality implementation of the project to reach the set objectives and complete the agreed deliverables on time. AIRE builds synergy and collaboration based on high-level competencies of seven partners: four universities, two science parks and one competence centre in AI, digitalization, business development (see Section 2.3 for the full list). In addition to service providers (partners), a wide list of associate partners is involved who also provide digitalization related serviced and take part of ecosystem development. Successful implementation starts from efficient work at the level of WPs and involved tasks. Monthly WP progress meetings are held including relevant WP and task leaders to allow coordination between linked tasks. Quarterly Steering Group Meetings allow validating the progress with legal representatives of all partners. The Strategic Review Meetings assess annually the strategic process regarding all service areas, project KPIs and milestones. In addition, the Advisory Board (AB), which includes external experts 18 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 who have excellent industry and policy expertise, will provide strategic guidance and input to the project via its annual meetings. Please see also the figure and additional information in Section 2.3 Consortium management and decision-making. The above-described structure and procedures will allow keeping track of the developments regarding all planned activities and monitoring work progress throughout the process, taking account of any risks that might arise. Any issues arising will be solved at the appropriate level. Larger setbacks and potential problems with achieving key milestones will be discussed at the Steering Group meetings where the need of involving the AB will be decided. Ad hoc meetings will be used to address any issues needing attention at any level of the project to take corrective action as soon as possible. The Project Coordinator (PC) will have the key responsibility for efficient and timely implementation of the project as well as ensuring quality and risk management; she will also initiate the ad hoc meetings and corrective actions as need be, negotiating these with all related partners. The AIRE consortium is dedicated to the highest quality levels in all EDIH tasks. More specifically, the consortium will follow formal quality procedures defined in a jointly agreed Quality Plan developed as part of D1.1 Project Management Handbook which meets the needs of all partners and keeps in mind the needs of the EDIH target groups. The handbook will define communication and reporting procedures, templates for deliverables, project meeting agendas, meeting minutes as well as conflict resolution procedures. As outlined above, overall quality management responsibilities lie with the PC, which includes timely submission of high-quality deliverables. The PC will be supported by the respective Work Package Leaders to ensure a “four-eyes-principle” considering technical and formal quality checks. A focused quantitative and qualitative progress review will be carried out annually in the context of the Strategic Review Meetings. In these meetings, qualitative evaluation of progress is carried out mainly based on a) WP leaders reporting on the extent to which objectives set to the WPs and specific tasks have been carried out; b) feedback gathered so far from the target groups related to services received (level of satisfaction). On the quantitative level, the key indicators are the following (measured annually): 1. Min 85% of the foreseen tasks to be carried out that year (based on the detailed work schedule) have been carried out. 2. 100% of the target levels of the project´s KPIs (see section 3.1 Impact) agreed to be achieved that year have been achieved. Concrete measures will be discussed and agreed upon at the Strategic Review Meetings to accelerate progress related to tasks where the results have been substandard or mediocre. The need for potential changes in any tasks will be discussed in the context of the Mid-term report (M18) to coordinate potential adjustments with the EC. Cost effectiveness and financial management (n/a for prefixed Lump Sum Grants) Describe the measures adopted to ensure that the proposed results and objectives will be achieved in the most cost- effective way. Indicate the arrangements adopted for the financial management of the project and how the financial resources will be allocated and managed within the consortium. Do NOT compare and justify the costs of each work package but summarize why your budget is cost effective. The AIRE EDIH consortium has been assembled based on the cost-benefit logic so that we have 7 core partners and 7 associated partners, to balance between cost and benefits for the project. Also, all but 1 (IMECC) full partner are not for profit (IMECC is a competence centre). Core activities of the project are implemented by the partners without service markup costs. Yet, some activities are sub-contracted to avoid market disturbance and support competition and involvement of private sector and public-private collaboration (e.g. pool of AI mentors). AIRE WPs, tasks, budget and division of roles between AIRE consortium partners are all planned based on PM cost and service prices (see section 4 Workplan and Annex 6 List of KPIs) and each service output is measured with quantitative KPIs and procedures for cost effectiveness, as follows: 1. Service fees are calculated based on market prices, including all EDIH project management, administration, dissemination and communication costs and 7% overheads; 2. Cost type based detailed budget was planned with each partner and WP Manager; 3. Clear division of roles and KPIs between partners based on expected outputs of services and impact (KPIs as numbers of clients) is made to achieve all the objectives of AIRE; 4. All staff costs are budgeted based on each partner organisation’s internal rules and existing salary levels (person-month cost); 19 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 5. All sub-contracting items are purchased in an open and sound manner according to tendering rules and procedures. For each of the services in the below table, detailed unit cost planning was implemented. Similar analysis was done for all other services as well. All KPIs are presented in Annex 6. Along implementation of the project, the beneficiary has right to adjust the KPIs according to the market demand. Financial Management of the project is secured by: 1. Each partner appointing a person responsible for financial management to manage their budget and submit reporting to the PC; 2. Financial progress of the project will be monitored on monthly progress meetings; 2. Quarterly detailed financial reporting and annual financial reporting with full documentation (timesheets, copies of invoices, payment orders and all relevant accounting documentation and proof) to be prepared by the PC. 3. The support provided by the Estonian state to AIRE as EDIH is subject to State aid control (coordinated by lead partner TALTECH in cooperation with relevant state aid control institutions in Estonia (including de minimis amount registered in the state registry); 4. An experienced Project Manager, Financial Manager and Chief Operations Officer coordinate and monitor the allocation and use of the project resources (e.g. clear rules, templates and project management handbook developed). At the beginning of the project, relevant state aid rules are analyzed and indicated for each EDIH service, depending on the content of the service and the size of the client. In case de minimis is applied, previous amounts of aid received are controlled not to exceed 300 000 EUR within 3 years. Article 28 GBER: Aid for Innovation Advisory Services, Article 25 of the GBER: support for RDI projects or the de minimis can be applied. AIRE will fully pass on all the State aid to their clients. Critical risks and risk management strategy Describe critical risks, uncertainties or difficulties related to the implementation of your project, and your measures/strategy for addressing them. Indicate for each risk (in the description) the impact and the likelihood that the risk will materialise (high, medium, low), even after considering the mitigating measures. Note: Uncertainties and unexpected events occur in all organisations, even if very well-run. The risk analysis will help you to predict issues that could delay or hinder project activities. A good risk management strategy is essential for good project management. Risk Description Work Proposed risk-mitigation measures No package No 1 Lower interest from AIRE All WPs In case of lower interest from companies, we will further main target group than strengthen the awareness-building activities and expected (not meeting the targeted outreach to potential clients. This approach target of 250 unique SMEs worked well in 2022 – 2025 period. If any of key KPIs to be serviced), difficulty in are lower than expected, we will gather additional attracting enough insights from the companies about their needs and participants to AIRE revise the service offerings accordingly. In case training trainings, events, etc. groups are not completed or the registration rate for events is low, changes in a) timing or b) content of the Likelihood: low event should be made. Timely and appropriate Potential impact: high communication (supported by WP6) is the key. 2 Difficulties in project WP1 Project planning (incl. financial planning), monitoring (financial) management – and quality management will detect potential lack of partners do not deliver the quality, delays or problems with financial management. expected quality/ do not Existing quality assurance and risk management fulfil key tasks in time/ run procedures will be reviewed under WP1 Project into problems with financial management. The risk is mitigated by all partners management. having clearly defined roles, tasks and responsibilities (e.g. shared KPIs) outlined in the work plan and Likelihood: low Consortium Agreement, as well as the project coordinator´s extensive experience in large-scale EU 20 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 Potential impact: high project management. Also, Estonian state is co- financing EDIH AIRE from national budget as a strategic project. 3 Companies decide not to WP2 There are several tasks supporting companies on their invest in AI after proof-of- path towards investment (Tasks 2.1, 2.2, 3.5, 4.2, 4.3, concept demo projects. 5.4). Special attention is paid to selecting partners for AI demoprojects (Task 2.2) – only companies with clear Likelihood: low vision and plan on investment will be selected. The Potential impact: medium number of companies going through these services is considerably larger than the number of potential demo projects, hence only highly motivated companies will be selected for the implementation of the demo projects. The period 2022 -2025 shows that proper client management can support clients on their way towards investment – knowing clients’ needs and guiding them through AIRE services help them to reach investment. AIRE client journey is developed based on the goal helping clients reach the investment (see Figure 4). 4 Difficulties in finding clients WP3 Introducing new services to the market starts from to new services – First-line careful service design, which is based on our previous AI Helpdesk in AI (Task 3.1) experiences and knowledge on market needs. Proper and AI Act awareness & communication will be provided – new services will be Toolbox (Task 3.5) introduced on AIRE homepage, AIRE Clubs, articles, social media. AIRE client journey involves careful client Likelihood: low management from service to service, which means Potential impact: medium client needs are handled holistically and new service is always suggested if needed. We expect get clients to new services from the existing clint base as we know their needs and can use targeted approach. 5 Lack of appropriate funding WP4 Close collaboration is already in place with the measures available for associated partner Estonian Business and Innovation AIRE clients who need Agency to design digitalisation measures to support financial support to invest in SMEs. Collaboration within the EDIH network to AI and robotics (state and provide input to planning appropriate financing EU funding) measures at the EU level is also foreseen. Specific attention will also be placed on attracting private Likelihood: medium financing (which is sometimes more flexible than public Potential impact: high measures). 6 Limited resources and WP5 Services are designed by an internationally capacity to provide AIRE experienced team and experts (English is the default services to SMEs outside working language). AIRE is committed to providing Estonia (clients of other services to clients and partners from other EDIH EDIHs) and establish regions (outside Estonia). First examples of sending collaboration with EU AI AIRE clients to other EDIHs’ services are already there Infrastructure from the period 2022 – 2025. We have established collaboration links with 18 EDIHs and will continue Likelihood: low active collaboration with the EU-wide EDIH network as Potential impact: high well as EEN will ensure efficient signposting to ensure the right support for each client. We will negotiate and establish connections with EU AI Infrastructure services. #§CON-MET-CM§# #§PRJ-MGT-PM§# #§FIN-MGT-FM§# #§RSK-MGT-RM§# #@CON-SOR-CS@# 21 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 2.3 Capacity to carry out the proposed work Consortium cooperation and division of roles (if applicable) Describe the participants (Beneficiaries, Affiliated Entities and Associated Partners, if any) and explain how they will work together to implement the project. How will they bring together the necessary expertise? How will they complement each other? In what way does each of the participants contribute to the project? Show that each has a valid role and adequate resources to fulfil that role. Note: When building your consortium, you should think of organisations that can help you reach objectives and solve problems. During 2025 – 2028 AIRE will continue offering services on AI with slightly expanded consortium – the consortium will be expanded by the Tallinn University (TLU), who in 2022 – 2025 was involved as associated partner. Tallinn University is a valuable new consortium partner as they have good competences in human centric AI, which today is missing in the consortium. Tallinn University complements the consortium by addressing important Human-Centered AI (HCAI) facets. One of the main research focuses is trustworthy AI, acknowledging a user-centric approach by enhancing transparency and explainability. Tallinn University promotes explainable AI to make AI decisions understandable to a wider audience including non-experts. This entails focusing on user needs, values, and behaviours when designing AI solutions. This fosters the foundation for inclusive and accessible AI, by testing with diverse group of users. Tallinn University has strong expertise in Human-Computer Interaction, involving different aspects of usability, user experience, design, and interactions which can be applied in the domain of AI. The key role of universities (TalTech, UT, EMU, TLU) is to bring cutting-edge research in AI, machine learning, and engineering directly into industry projects. Universities are innovation enablers – they bring their research results and knowledge for solving SMEs’ unique challenges in adopting AI solutions through test before invest demoprojects (Tasks 2.3). Also, in order to ensure smooth client journey and address SMEs complex and interdisciplinary challenges, universities are involved to provide impact analysis for demoprojects or offer demoproject follow-up consultation (Task 3.1). Universities’ knowledge is spread through trainings and webinars (Tasks 3.3, 3.4) as well as in offering access to EU AI Infrastructure services (i.e. TEFs, AI Factories). Science parks (Tehnopol, TSP) build strong ties with markets and industries – they offer expert knowledge in AI suitability assessment (Task 2.1) and help to find private investments (Task 4.3) as well as support SMEs using EU AI technologies (Tasks 2.1, 2.2, 3.1) and cross-border services (Task 5.3). The role of Innovative Manufacturing Engineering Systems Competence Centre IMECC was established to provide high-tech solutions and engineering support for Estonian companies and strengthen the position of the Estonian manufacturing industry both domestically and internationally. IMECC is a valuable partner with long-term knowledge in smart robotics and digital maturity assessments. They have good connection with manufacturing industry, thus IMECC is involved delivering test before invest demoprojects (Task 2.2) and providing robotisation suitability and digital maturity assessments (Task 3.1). There are seven associated partners to support AIRE services. Their role is to be a bridge between AIRE and market needs/clients, be a gate to market networks and perform as a dissemination and communication channels. Estonian Business and Innovation Agency (EBI) demonstrates strengths in managing state-funded financial instruments, designing tailored SME support services, aligning activities with Estonian policy, and coordinating public sector funding for the private sector, being one of the most important partners for AIRE in finding sources for funding from public measures. Furthermore, when a company's level of digitization doesn't yet meet the requirements for AIRE's services, AIRE refers the client to EBI programs. This enables them to initiate projects, supported by grants, to raise their digitization level. Once the client is ready, they can return to AIRE for further support. AIRE consortium composition and division of expertise is presented in the table below. Consortium partner Competences and expertise Tasks, role and complementarity Consortium partners WP1 Project management Tallinn University of Competencies: AI and machine learning, and coordination (TalTech) Technology robotics, smart and digital WP2 Test before invest: (TalTech), including manufacturing, industry 4.0 - 5.0, 22 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 Innovation Centre automated production systems and real- Task 2.2 Demo projects and Mektory, Department time monitoring, predictive maintenance, experiments; Task 2.3 of Mechanical and production digitalisation and Integration of AIRE results with Industrial Engineering, manufacturing optimisation, digital twins, EU AI ecosystem; Department of internet of things, smart industry, WP3 Skills and training: Software Sciences, communication systems, virtual reality, Task 3.1 First-line AI helpdesk Department of virtual environments, self-driving on AI innovation; Task 3.3 Computer Systems, vehicles, mobile robots, mobility Trainings and Task 3.4 Johan Seebeck engineering, big data, HPC, cyber- Webinars in the field of Department of security, data security, formal methods digitalization technologies and Electronics and for mission-critical systems, mechanical AI; Task 3.5 AI Act awareness Department of and industrial engineering, electrical & Toolbox (TalTech); Electrical Power engineering, smart electrical grids, e- WP4 Support to find funding: Engineering and med systems and health-care Task 4.2 Consulting on access Mechatronics. technology development, trainings, to funding (public funding), consultations. including links to research funding and Horizon, DEP, University of Tartu ERASMUS etc projects (UT) including the Competencies: AI and machine learning (incl. deep neural networks), cyber (TalTech); Task 4.4 Institute of Preparation and submission of Technology, Institute security and data security, business process mining, language technology, funding proposals for EU of Computer Science, collaboration of EDIHs etc Centre for self-driving technologies, big data technologies, IoT, computer graphics (TalTech); Entrepreneurship and WP 5 Innovation ecosystem Innovation, High and virtual reality, high performance computing, ROS (Robot Operating and networking opportunities Performance Task 5.1 Strategic coordination Computing Centre and System), full robotics system development, hardware integration, of AIRE EDIH role in EU AI Tartu Observatory. Ecosystem (TalTech); Task 5.2 process automation, motion planning and control theory, system identification, Matchmaking with the SMEs; data fusion, electronics design, Task 5.3 Collaboration with simulations and digital twins, algorithm EDIHs for cross-border service development, engineering, prototyping, delivery; Task 5.4 Consulting image processing, human-computer SMEs on access to EU AI interaction, machine learning, computer Ecosystem. graphics, trainings, consultations. WP 6 Dissemination, communication and Estonian University exploitation of results of Life Sciences Competencies: Mechanical and industrial engineering, electrical (TalTech): Task 6.1 (EMU) Development of the Institute of Forestry engineering, smart electrical grids, self- driving technologies, computer-aided Dissemination and and Engineering, Communication Plan; Task 6.2 Chair of Biosystems design and computer-aided manufacturing, robotics and drone Implementation of the Engineering. Dissemination and technology, hardware integration, process automation, prototyping, Communication Plan; Task 6.3 trainings, consultations. Updating the aire-edih.eu based on the concept of the AI Digital Showroom; Task 6.4 Tallinn University Competences: Human-Computer Client relations management; (TLU) Interaction, trustworthy AI, explainable Task 6.5 AIRE Clubs. AI, prototyping, user research, user School of Digital experience evaluation, interaction Technologies design, design theory and methodologies, physiological computing, emerging digital technologies. WP2 Test before invest: Tallinn Science Park Competencies and services: supporting Tehnopol technology companies throughout the Task 2.1 AI suitability growth stages (startups, scale-ups, and assessments; Task 2.2 Demo corporations) focusing on the green, projects and experiments health and deep technology (including (TSP); smart industry and manufacturing) verticals. Business development WP3 Skills and training: services help the companies to enter Task 3.1 First-line AI helpdesk export markets, conduct product and on AI innovation; business model development, find private or public capital for scaling and to 23 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 engage successful sales and marketing WP4 Support to find funding: strategies. Task 4.3 Consulting on access to funding (private funding) Tehnopol business campus has more (Tehnopol); than 300 resident technology companies and the business development services WP 5 Innovation ecosystem are provided to more than 200 and networking opportunities companies annually. Tehnopol has more than 10 years of knowledge about Task 5.2 Matchmaking with the managing a startup incubator; has a wide SMEs (Tehnopol); Task 5.3 network in Europe with previous Horizon, Collaboration with EDIHs for COSME and CB Interreg project cross-border service delivery; partners; is a full member of IASP WP 6 Dissemination, (International Association of Science communication and Parks and Areas of Innovation). exploitation of results Competencies and services: applied AI Task 6.5 AIRE Clubs. Tartu Science Park advisory and prototyping services, (TSP) business mentoring, business network building & management, business incubation, SME capacity building, technology transfer, digitalisation, access to finance, sustainability, cross- border partnering, internationalisation, infrastructure (office and room rent). TSP has operated incubation programs for technology and knowledge intensive companies for over 9 years and is currently running European Space Agency Business Incubator for start- ups with space connection and Sparkup Incubator dedicated to the development of deep-tech companies. TSP has an applied AI unit which works closely with SME-s and prototypes innovative research-based AI solutions for business use. WP2 Test before invest: Innovative Competencies and services: over 12 Manufacturing years of experience in providing R&D Task 2.2 Demo projects and Engineering Systems services to companies, incl. robotisation experiments; Competence Centre suitability analysis, AI-based production IMECC optimisation, automatization and WP3 Skills and training: digitalisation, creation of digital twins, Task 3.1 First-line AI helpdesk process optimisation, digital maturity on AI innovation. assessment based on an IT tool created by IMECC. Acting as a competence centre, IMECC has a strong network of manufacturing companies, universities and other educational institutions, industry associations and R&D companies. Associated partners Estonian Business EBI coordinates and supervises state- WP4 Support to find funding: and Innovation funded financial instruments for the Task 4.2 Consulting on access Agency (EBI) private sector. Collaboration is to funding (public funding); established in designing services for the SMEs (consulting, training, support to WP 5 Innovation ecosystem funding, networking). and networking opportunities Task 5.3 Collaboration with EDIHs for cross-border service delivery; 24 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 WP 6 Dissemination, communication and exploitation of results Task 6.5 AIRE Clubs Estonian Chamber of EEN has a wide network of SMEs in WP2 Test before invest: Commerce and Estonia and performs as EEN Task 2.2 Demo projects and Industry (EEN representative in Estonia. experiments; coordinator in EML and EEIA are included to involve WP3 Skills and training: Estonia). the target group and disseminate results Task 3.4 Webinars in the field Estonian Federation for awareness raising. They take part in of digitalisation technologies; of Engineering monthly AIRE Clubs and help to involve WP 5 Innovation ecosystem Industries (EML). the target group in AIRE events and and networking opportunities Estonian Electronics services. AIRE consults EML and EEIA Industries in preparing AI and robotics trainings and Task 5.3 Collaboration with Association (EEIA). demo projects for test before invest by EDIHs for cross-border service Estonian Association encouraging companies to take risks for delivery; of Information digitalisation and use of AI and robotics WP 6 Dissemination, Technology and in their companies. communication and Telecommunications ITL is included to involve private sector exploitation of results (ITL) AI developers, IT and telecommunication companies and consultants for test Task 6.5 AIRE Clubs before invest activities. Tallinn City Government (Tallinn Taking part in networking and ecosystem WP4 Support to find funding: Strategic Management development, collaboration in the Task 4.2 Consulting on access Office) organisation of entrepreneurship days in to funding (public funding); Tartu City Tallinn and Tartu (annual events) reaching for the target group. Spreading WP 6 Dissemination, Government communication and information, taking part in monthly AIRE (Entrepreneurship exploitation of results Service) Clubs and other networking events. Introducing municipal support schemes Task 6.5 AIRE Clubs for digitalisation (test before invest and access to finance). WP 5 Innovation ecosystem 200+ EDIHs in Europe Networking with other EDIHs to provide and networking opportunities cross-sectoral and cross-border services. Around 40 online and face-to- Task 5.1 Strategic coordination face meetings have already been of AIRE EDIH role in EU AI organised from 2020 to 2025 to build Ecosystem; Task 5.2 collaboration. AIRE takes actively part in Matchmaking with the SMEs. Digital Transformation Accelerator (DTA) activities to build synergy from 2023. Also, AIRE is an active member in EDIH TWGs (Data and Manufacturing, East and West Matchmaking). WP2 Test before invest: EU AI Infrastructure Testing and Experimental Facilities, AI Task 2.1 AI suitability Factories, AI regulatory Sandboxes, AI- assessments; Task 2.2 Demo on-Demand Platform, AI Skills Academy projects and experiments form EU AI related skills and knowledge WP 5 Innovation ecosystem ecosystem to support AIRE services. and networking opportunities AIRE will build connections with all AI Task 5.3 Collaboration with Infrastructure services and will be able to EDIHs for cross-border service foster AIRE clients to benefit from those. delivery; Task 5.4 Consulting SMEs on access to EU AI Ecosystem. 25 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 Project teams and staff Describe the project teams and how they will work together to implement the project. List the staff included in the project budget (budget category A) by function/profile (e.g. project manager, senior expert/advisor/researcher, junior expert/advisor/researcher, trainers/teachers, technical personnel, administrative personnel etc. — use the same profiles as in the detailed budget table, if any (n/a for prefixed Lump Sum Grants)) and describe briefly their tasks. Name and function Organisati Role/tasks/professional profile and expertise on Kirke Maar TalTech 25 years of experience working as a project manager, incl. coordination of large project teams and ensuring efficient The Head of AI & administration. Kirke has worked as a financing consultant in the Robotics Estonia private sector for 20 years and helped many Estonian projects in AIRE R&D, business, tourism and social affairs find support, set targets WP1 leader and clear goals and cooperate to achieve them. WP1 leader, involved in Tasks 1.1-1.5, 2.2, 2.3, 3.1, 3.5, 4.2, 4.4, 5.1-5.3, 6.2, 6.4, 6.5, supervision of all tasks. Katre Eljas TalTech Katre has more than 20 years of management experience in various teams and organizations. She has managed EU AIRE Chief programs and projects in the public sector as well as an Operations Officer international consulting company for 10 years. For the last 3 (COO) years, Katre has contributed into development of AIRE centre in WP2 leader various roles – she has been COO building AIRE services and management structures. She managed the AIRE demonstration projects service and is back on the position of COO. WP2 leader, involved in Tasks 1.1-1.5, 2.2, 2.3, 5.1, 5.2, 6.4, supervision of all tasks. Project assistant at the Institute of Technology at the University Kirsi Zirel University of Tartu. Administrated several EU-, state-, and industry funded of Tartu WP3 leader projects at the University of Tartu, incl. Horizon2020 and Horizon Europe. Experienced in project financial management; coordinated different events related to the projects. Also involved in the AIRE project 2022-2025. WP 3 leader, involved in Tasks 1.1 – 1.5, 2.2, 3.1-3.5, 4.2, 5.3, 5.4, 6.2, 6.5 Rauno has held multiple project management and investment Rauno Varblas Tallinn portfolio manager roles over the course of the career. As AI Science Program Coordinator at Tehnopol, he helps companies create WP4 leader and and implement AI solutions and find funding for the projects. His Business background includes managing business intelligence solutions Park development team at one of the top software houses in Estonia, Tehnopol where he worked with international clients on data analytics and software integration. In the past 7 years he has been focusing on artificial intelligence and data-driven product and business development. Rauno has founded and managed several businesses, focusing on practical, technology-driven solutions. WP4 leader, involved in Tasks 1.1-1.5, 2.1, 3.1, 4.1, 4.3, 5.2, 5.3, 6.5 Reet's unique blend of technology law expertise and hands-on Reet Pärgmäe TalTech experience with EU-funded projects makes her a highly effective WP5 leader public funding manager. She understands the legal and regulatory landscape while possessing proven skills in grant writing, project administration, and team leadership. This combination allows her to strategically secure funding and ensure its successful deployment to support innovation and digital transformation. WP5 leader, involved in T1.1-1.5, 4.2, 4.4, 5.1-5.4, 6.4, 6.5 Anne has over 20 years of experience in marketing and Anne Muldme TalTech communications management, including sectors like telecommunication, media, R&D and higher education. Anne has led multiple marketing and communication teams over the years 26 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 Marketing and and today is acting also as a marketing lecturer in TalTech. As a Communications WP6 leader in AIRE Anne has a solid professional network and Manager competences for contributing to the dissemination and WP6 leader communication activities. WP6 leader, involved in Tasks 1.1-1.5, 5.1, 6.1-6.5 Evelin has an engineering background and is experienced in Evelin Ebruk TalTech strategic and data-driven service go-to-market planning and Customer delivery. She is a client consultant across all AIRE’s services. Relationship Manager Evelin has led the development of AIRE’s Client Relationship Management system: automated service and client management system for project management; seamless client journey with client and target group centric principles at forefront; analytics- driven feedback loop for service needs and delivery improvement regionally and technically. Involved in Tasks 1.1-1.5, 2.1, 2.2, 3.1, 3.3, 3.4, 3.5, 4.2, 4.3, 5.2, 5.3, 5.4, 6.4, 6.5 Kert has over 10 years of experience as a CFO in both public and Kert Kaljula TalTech private sector organizations. He has managed finances in diverse Chief Financial Officer fields such as solar energy, real estate, science parks, and startup (CFO) incubators, as well as in small and large EU-funded projects. Kert brings a strategic and results-driven mindset to his work. He is Demonstration currently responsible for managing the finances of AIRE. projects’ Business Involved in Tasks 1.1-1.5, 2.2, 5.3, 5.4 Development Manager Annela has strong communication skills, extensive experience in Annela Hendrikson TalTech project management, and a proven track record of successfully Project Manager managing and consulting projects. She has managed EU/EEA programs (Erasmus+,Nordplus) on national level and guided beneficiaries in managing their projects according to the set requirements. Involved in Tasks 1.1-1.5, 1.4, 5.2, 5.3, 6.5 Riina has a strong background in administrative support and Riina Rohumäe TalTech office management, with versatile experience in both production Executive Assistant and administrative roles. At AIRE, she supports the team with day-to-day coordination, document handling, event organization, and communication with partners. Her adaptability, structured approach, and dedication ensure smooth workflows across the organization. Involved in Tasks 1.1-1.5, 2.3, 3.1, 3.5, 4.4, 5.1, 6.2, 6.4, 6.5 Dmitri is completing his studies in Business Information Dmitri Derevjanko TalTech Technology at TalTech, combining strong competencies in IT and Digitalisation Expert finance. He is skilled in software development, automation scripting, data analysis, and both SQL and NoSQL databases. With hands-on experience in building AI agents and a solid understanding of modern AI principles, Dmitri contributes to AIRE's innovation efforts through technical support and solution development. Involved in Tasks 2.2, 2.3, 3.1, 3.5, 6.3, 6.5 Eliisa has been working as a marketing project manager at AIRE Eliisa Metsoja TalTech for a year. She has organized various events, conferences, and Marketing Project led marketing projects for several years at TalTech and in other Manager companies. Eliisa is known for her attention to detail, thoroughness, and ability to meet deadlines while bringing creativity and a fast-learning mindset to her work. She performs well both independently and as part of a team. Involved in Tasks 6.1-6.5 Expertise in legal aspects of AI. TalTech LegalLab manager. Tea Park TalTech Involved in Task 3.5 Legal Expert on AI Expertise in legal aspects of AI. Director of the Department of Tanel Kerikmäe TalTech Law. Involved in Task 3.5 27 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 Legal Expert on AI Gert Jervan TalTech Tenured Full Professor - Centre for Dependable Computing Systems: Department of Computer Systems and the Dean of the Expert in computer School of Information Technologies at TalTech. Involved in Tasks systems 1.1.-1.4, 2.2, 5.4 Steering groupmember Fjodor Sergejev TalTech Tenured Associate Professor - Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering. Dean at School of Engineering. Involved Expert in mechanics in Tasks 1.1.-1.4, 2.2, 5.4 engineering Kristo Karjust TalTech Head of Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, Expert in production specialised in production optimization and monitoring, optimization manufacturing processes control and analysis. Involved in Tasks 2.2, 5.4. Tauno Otto TalTech Development Manager, Programme Director and Professor of production technology at TalTech and the head of SmartIC, the Expert in production core infrastructure for smart production in Estonia. Director of the digitalisation Centre of Excellence of Smart Industry. Member of the EC`s Made in Europe partnership. Involved in Tasks 1.1-1.4, 2.2, 5.4 Juhan-Peep Ernits TalTech Associate Professor at TalTech, whose research work focuses on applications of artificial intelligence in robotics (focus on computer Expert in AI vision and creation of reliable software for robots). Involved in applications in Tasks 2.2, 3.1, 4.4, 5.3, 5.4 robotics Professor of Multidisciplinary Big Data at TalTech. He was Innar Liiv TalTech previously a Cyber Studies Visiting Research Fellow (2016-2017) Big Data Expert and a Research Associate (2018-2020) at the University of Oxford, a Visiting Scholar at Stanford University (2015), and a Postdoctoral Visiting Researcher at the Georgia Institute of Technology (2009). His research interests include data science, financial technology, social network analysis, information visualization, computational international relations, and big data technology transfer to industrial and governmental applications. He is currently working on an interdisciplinary research question “How to use data science to improve governments innovatively and successfully? “ Involved in 1.2, 2.2, 5.4 Assistant Professor of Manufacturing Engineering Chair of Marten Madissoo EMU Biosystems Engineering. AIRE coordinator at EMU Expert in Involved in Tasks 1.5, 2.2, 3.1, 3.4, 6.5 manufacturing engineering and cutting tools Director of Academic Affairs at EMU with key expertise in Margus Arak EMU environmental physics. Building synergy with AI pilots in Expert for industry agriculture. digitalisation Involved in Tasks 1.3, 1.4, 2.2, 3.1, 3.4, 6.5 Steering Group member Senior Lecturer at EMU with key expertise in Electronics and Janar Kalder EMU Programming. Expert for Electronics Involved in Tasks 2.2, 3.1, 3.3 and Programming 28 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 Professor of Artificial Intelligence at the University of Tartu Meelis Kull University Institute of Computer Science, head of Machine Learning of Tartu research group, which focuses on developing AI systems that are Expert in Artificial Intelligence aware of the limits of their own knowledge and can express uncertainty when necessary – making AI a more trustworthy partner. The Head of the Estonian Centre of Excellence in AI (EXAI). Involved in the AIRE project 2022-2025. Involved in Tasks 2.2, 3.1, 3.3-3.5, 5.4, 6.5 Junior Research Fellow of Information Security at the University Vjatšeslav University of Tartu Institute of Computer Science. Expert in cybersecurity. Antipenko of Tartu He has extensive experience in the telecommunications sector, Expert in and deep understanding of the intersection between theoretical Cybersecurity knowledge and real-world applications, particularly in the fields of the Internet of Things and information security. Involved in the AIRE project 2022-2025. Involved in Tasks 2.2, 3.1, 3.3-3.5, 5.4, 6.5 Lecturer in Artificial Intelligence at the University of Tartu Institute Ardi Tampuu University of Computer Science. Expert in Computer Vision. Highly involved of Tartu in the AIRE project 2022-2025. Expert in Artificial Intelligence Involved in Tasks 3.1, 3.3-3.5, 5.4, 6.5 Alvo Aabloo Professor at the Institute of Technology at the University of Tartu, University head of the Intelligent Materials and Systems laboratory, expert Expert in intelligent of Tartu in robotics, and intelligent materials and systems. Coordinated materials and 20+ projects between industry and university, incl. FP7, systems Horizon2020 and Horizon Europe; also involved in the AIRE project 2022-2025. Involved in Tasks 1.3, 2.2, 3.1-3.5, 4.2, 5.3, 5.4, 6.2, 6.5 Karl Kruusamäe Associated professor at the Institute of Technology at the University University of Tartu. Experienced researcher in robotics, incl. Expert in human-robot of Tartu electronics and mechanical design, software development, interaction systems integration, device prototyping, and professional training. Project leader for many EU-, state-, and industry funded projects at the University of Tartu; also involved in the AIRE project 2022- 2025. Involved in Tasks 2.2, 3.1-3.5, 4.2, 5.3, 5.4, 6.5 Arun Kumar Singh Associate Professor of Collaborative Robotics at the Institute of University Technology at the University of Tartu. Head of the collaborative Expert in collaborative of Tartu robotics group at the Institute of Technology. The group's robotics research covers a wide range of applications, from human-robot collaboration and robot manipulation to autonomous driving. Project leader for different projects at the University of Tartu; also involved in the AIRE project 2022-2025. Involved in Tasks 2.2, 3.1-3.5, 4.2, 5.3, 5.4, 6.5 Veiko Vunder Lecturer in Robotics Technology at the Institute of Technology at University the University of Tartu. Experienced researcher in robotics, incl. Expert in Robotics of Tartu electronics, software development, device prototyping, and the Technology integration of AI technologies with edge computing. Involved in several EU-, state-, and industry funded projects at the University of Tartu, incl. the AIRE project 2022-2025. Involved in Tasks 2.2, 3.1-3.5, 5.3, 5.4, 6.5 Mariana Kukk Senior Specialist of Marketing and Communication at the Institute University of Technology at the University of Tartu, leading outreach for the Expert in marketing of Tartu Computer Engineering and Robotics curricula and steering and communication communication for EU projects (for example Erasmus+ and EIT Manufacturing). Involved also in the AIRE project 2022-2025. Involved in Tasks 2.2, 3.3-3.4, 6.2, 6.5 Lead of Industry Collaboration at the University of Tartu Institute Helen Jõesaar University of Computer Science. Experienced coordinator of academia– of Tartu industry collaboration, incl. R&D partnerships, student-industry 29 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 Expert in Industry programmes, continuing education, and strategic cooperation Collaboration development. Highly involved also in the AIRE project 2022-2025. Member of Steering Involved in Tasks 2.2, 3.1, 3.3-3.5, 4.2, 5.3, 5.4, 6.5 Group Industry Collaboration Specialist at the Institute of Computer Mari-Anne Suurpere University Science at the University of Tartu. Supports the development and of Tartu implementation of collaboration between academia and industry, Expert in Industry Collaboration incl. coordinating events, managing communication with partners, and assisting in R&D and student engagement initiatives. Experienced in project financial management. Experienced in project financial management. Involved in Tasks 1.3, 2.2, 3.1, 3.3-3.5, 4.2, 5.3, 5.4, 6.5 Marketing and communications specialist for industry Lotte Parksepp University collaboration at the University of Tartu Institute of Computer Expert in marketing of Tartu Science. Her main goal is to bridge science and business by and communication encouraging institutions to collaborate with the university and encourage knowledge transfer. Experiences in showcasing success stories as well as running the AIRE newsletter. Involved in Tasks 2.2, 3.3-3.4, 6.2, 6.5 Mustafa Can Özdemir is a PhD student and guest lecturer at the Mustafa Can Tallinn School of Digital Technologies. His research in Human-Computer Özdemir University Interaction focuses on Human-Centered Ubiquitous Computing Project Manager and and human attention in time sensitive information transmissions Human-Computer and notification design. At AIRE, he is the project manager, Interaction expert looking over the projects that fall under Tallinn University. Involved in Tasks 1.1-1.5, 2.2, 3.1, 3.3, 6.5 Sónia Cláudia Da Tallinn Sonia Sousa is an Associate Professor of Interaction Design at Costa Sousa University the School of Digital Technologies, Tallinn University, Estonia. She holds two PhDs (2006 & 2023) and two postdoc projects Trustworthy AI and (2010 & 2013) in Software Design, Distance Education and Human-Computer Human-Computer Interaction. Her research explores the interplay Interaction expert between trust, performance, and technology adoption. She leads the Trustworthy HCI lab and has been an active researcher and teacher since 2003. Involved in tasks: 2.2, 3.1 Martin is the Head of AI at Tartu Science Park and has been Martin Rebane Tartu Science working on AI solutions since 2011. Martin holds a PhD in artificial Expert in Artificial Park intelligence from the University of Warwick in England and has Intelligence extensive experience working with various companies. At AIRE, Steering Group he helps companies think through and design AI solutions daily. member WP2 Task 2.1 leader. Involved in Tasks 1.3, 2.1, 2.2, 3.1, 5.3, 6.5. Ingrid Hunt Tartu Ingrid is a Project Manager at Tartu Science Park, responsible for Science projects related to AI and robotics in manufacturing. Ingrid has Expert in Project and Park extensive experience in financial management, strategic Financial planning, business development and management. Involved in Management Tasks 1.1-1.5, 2.1, 2.2, 3.1, 5.3, 6.5. Ida Maria is an AI developer at Tartu Science Park focused on Ida Maria Orula Tartu test before demo projects. Ida Maria has a master's degree in Science computer science and experience in AI development. Expert in AI Park development Involved in WP2 Task 2.1, 2.2. Andrus is a member of the Management Board at Tartu Science Andrus Kurvits Tartu Park. Andrus has extensive competencies and experience in Science strategic planning, business mentoring and network building. Expert in Strategic Park Planning Involved in Tasks 1.3, 2.1. Georg is a Marketing Assistant at Tartu Science Park focused on Georg Lillo Tartu event organisation and partner relations. Georg has Science competencies in marketing and finance. Specialist in Park Marketing and event Involved in WP6 Task 6.5. organisation 30 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 Martin Goroško Tehnopol Head of business services at Tehnopol who has worked with more than 200 early-stage companies. Member of the Estonian Expert in private Business Angels Network. Involved in Tasks 3.1, 4.3, 6.5 financing Mariann Uudmäe Project Manager at Tehnopol Business Services Department with Tehnopol previous experience in client verification and supply chain Project specialist coordination in fast paced international environments. Involved in Task 1.3. Riin Lepp Tehnopol Marketing Project Manager at Tehnopol. Responsible for project Marketing related marketing, events and communication activities. Involved in WP 6 Task 6.4. Jüri Riives IMECC R&D manager at IMECC. Jüri has long-term competences and practical experiences in digitalisation, robotisation, robot Expert in industry applications, AI in robotics, robot-cell design and performance digitalization and monitoring, knowledge-driven performance and suitability robotization analysis in robotics. He has both academic as well as industrial background. Involved in Tasks 2.2, 3.1. Tõnu Lelumees IMECC Expert in digital maturity evaluation and robotics with key skills in technological innovation, automation, productivity, robotics, Expert for industry digitalisation and management. Involved in Tasks 2.2, 3.1. digitalization and robotization Kaia Lõun IMECC Project expert, with wide competences in project management and administration. Also, expert in industry digitalisation and Expert in project financial management. Involved in Task 1.1-1.5. management and digitalization The staff list includes the main staff. There are more staff included in offering services. Project staff changes according to market needs and additional staff will be involved if needed. Outside resources (subcontracting, seconded staff, etc) If you do not have all skills/resources in-house, describe how you intend to get them (contributions of members, partner organisations, subcontracting, etc.) and for which role/tasks/professional profile/expertise If there is subcontracting, please also complete the table in section 4. Sub-contracting is planned in total amount of €235 702, which is 4.3% of the total budget of €5,45m. Most of the tasks are carried out with in-house competences of seven partners but external expertise is planned in the following based on state tendering rules in an open and transparent process and procedure: • Legal advice expert fees (Task 1.1). • AI suitability assessment of AIRE clients (Task 2.1) – a pool of AI mentors (external expertise) is created for public-private collaboration and enrichment of expertise. • External experts for test before invest demoprojects and experiments (AI and robotics) (Task 2.2) – public-private collaboration to include extra skills like AI, cyber security, big data, HPC, etc. • External experts to identify and map EU funding and programmes opportunities (Task 4.4). • External services on organizing events and meetings with EDIHs and other EU AI ecosystem stakeholders (i.e. catering) (task 5.1). • External contracts for AIRE brand development, content creation and production (design, videos, web features etc) and organizing AIRE clubs (Task 6.2, 6.5). Please see section 4.4 Sub-contracting, including sub-contracting budget. Consortium management and decision-making (if applicable) Explain the management structures and decision-making mechanisms within the consortium. Describe how decisions will be taken and how regular and effective communication will be ensured. Describe methods to ensure planning and control. 31 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 Note: The concept (including organisational structure and decision-making mechanisms) must be adapted to the complexity and scale of the project. AIRE centre’s management and decision-making structure is fully established and well performing since autumn 2022. Coordination of the AIRE centre is based on a management structure reflecting the EDIH project context and complexity, to ensure efficient consortium management and to make sure that all project objectives are achieved within planned time, budget, and quality. Project management will rely on procedures and techniques jointly agreed on by all project partners (please see more under WP1 and section 2.2 Project management, quality assurance and monitoring and evaluation strategy). Highly competent AI, data management, big data, cybersecurity, HPC, IoT, Industry 5.0, international collaboration, marketing and communication as well as legal experts are involved based on the common vision and expectations of AIRE clients and follow in line with the coordination of the consortium (please see section 2.3 for the full consortium description). Management structure and decision-making The management structure and related procedures of AIRE are defined to facilitate operations and management of the centre´s services and project WPs. Simple and effective procedures are set up to reduce the complexity. Figure 7: The general governance structure of AIRE The management of the project is structured in three layers: 1) The Project Management Group (PMG) consists of the project coordinator, Chief Operations Officer (COO), Chief Financial Officer (CFO), WP leaders (WPL) and task leaders (TL). The PC – Kirke Maar, TalTech – is liable for global project management and coordination (planning, implementation, and control of all project activities), administrative and financial aspects and reporting of project financial and budgetary status to the EC. Furthermore, the Project Coordinator will oversee the quality of the project implementation through dedicated quality management procedures and is also responsible for risk management and mitigation. The Project Coordinator is complemented by COO, who manages everyday processes and people. COO ensures clear and smooth procedures and quality of services. Any ad-hoc issues in implementation are carefully managed on daily basis. Together with CFO the COO ensures integrity of processes with financial management reducing risks for any mismanagement. Shared management responsibilities allow also Project Coordinator to focus on developing collaborations with EU level ecosystem stakeholders and find contracts for ensuring sustainability of the AIRE centre. The WP Leaders are responsible for convening the work package team meetings and thus checking that the work is carried out according to the agreed plans and deliverables are ready in time. The WP Leaders are also responsible for managing the resources allocated to the WP, supervising the work of the Task Leaders and the team, acting as a link between the WP team and the Project Coordinator, reporting on the problems, results, progress of the work. The Task Leaders are responsible for specific tasks inside the WP and producing the first versions of related deliverables of interactions and project overhead. The AIRE general governance structure is outlined in the following figure. 2) The Steering Group (SG) is led by the Project Coordinator and consists of the legal representatives of all partners. The SG is the primary decision-making body of the project and supports the Project Coordinator in strategic project management issues. The SG ensures that project activities are properly monitored, coordinated, and kept on budget. The SG has the ultimate authority in resolving any issues that may arise (scientific, contractual, commercial or otherwise). 32 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 3) The Advisory Board (AB) has a strategic advisory function in the project. The AB includes high-level external experts of industry and AI. The AB supports strategic implementation by providing project partners with the necessary feedback to increase the project’s relevance to the needs of its target groups. Moreover, the AB provides a vital link between the project and policy level and support the consortium in its networking activities as well as align it with relevant other regional/national/EU initiatives. Also, the AB is instrumental in evaluating the strategic documents, key deliverables, and impact of the AIRE project. There are 10 AB members at the moment, and the composition AB members will be reviewed at the beginning of the project. New Consortium Agreement (CA) will be signed for the purposes of implementation of the project. The Consortium Agreement will be defined and signed before the start of the project activities to codify the responsibilities of each partner. The CA will specify the organisation of work between all parties involved use of project budget and payment procedure. It will define the partners´ rights and obligations, including their liability and indemnification. It will also supplement the provisions of the Grant Agreement (GA) concerning Access Rights, ensure adequate attention to gender equality and set out rights and obligations of the parties supplementing but not conflicting with those of the GA. The CA will also cover the following issues: confidentiality, IPR issues, with specific provisions; internal licensing of results during and after the end of the project; agreement on exploitation rights and cost-sharing at sales activities after the end of the project. Any disputes and conflicts will be resolved, wherever possible, through mediation. The partners in dispute will first present their case to their respective WPL, who will then represent their case to the PC. The aim is to resolve the issue in a manner as simple as possible. However, if the partner(s) is/are not satisfied with the outcome, the dispute will be presented to the SC, where the legal representatives of all partners will jointly decide on how to solve the issue in alignment with the CA and the national legislation. #§CON-SOR-CS§# #§QUA-LIT-QL§# #@IMP-ACT-IA@# #@COM-DIS-VIS-CDV@# 3. IMPACT 3.1 Expected outcomes and deliverables — Dissemination and communication Expected outcomes and deliverables Define and explain the extent to which the project will achieve the expected impacts listed in Call document. First, regarding the number of businesses and public sector entities that have used the EDIH’s services – AIRE will reach at least 250 unique SMEs and mid-caps. The focus is on all sectors, with strong emphasis on the manufacturing SMEs and companies providing services in the value chain of industrial companies (e.g. logistics, quality control, supply chain management, equipment maintenance etc.). During 2022 - 2025 AIRE offered services to more than 270 unique clients in 22 different domains. Moreover, in 2025 - 2028 AIRE aims to reach to 50% in cross-border clients (125 clients: 10 clients attending test before invest services, 50 clients attending trainings and webinars, 10 clients attending access to finance services and 55 clients attending in networking services). The most of AIRE clients operate in metalworking, timber production, electronics, production of machinery and food production. These industries are also the most important manufacturing industries in the Estonian economic context, considering their employment, exports, value-adding, strong linkages and clustering with other industries. As industrial sector in Estonia is still lagging in automatization and digitalisation31, the emphasis will still be on industrial SMEs, but AIRE will invite also clients from all economic sectors across the EU to participate in AIRE services (see client target groups in Section 1.1). Thus, AIRE’s potential client segment will be expanded significantly. It is expected that up to 50% of clients are from the manufacturing industry. Also, we expect at least 200 clients from SMEs across the EU, 30 mid-caps and 20 start-ups or spin-offs will participate in AIRE services. The KPI is monitored through AIRE CRM. Having said this, in addition to industry value-chain companies we see potential new clients in recourse and energy efficiency, defence, health technologies, agriculture and forestry as well as IT and technology companies providing AI solutions for industries. Furthermore, AIRE will act as first-line AI helpdesk offering services to businesses across all domains (e.g. Tasks 3.1, 3.3, 3.4 and 3.5). Also, we expect new clients from cross-border services under Tasks 2.1, 2.2, 3.4 and Task 5.3. To maximise the impact, AIRE has decided to focus on and cooperate with 250 strategically chosen companies. There are approximately 9,000 manufacturing companies in Estonia and of these 8% are planning to introduce advanced AI solutions (such as machine learning technologies) in the upcoming two 31 Estonia IT industry: Paving the Way for the Digital Future 33 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 years32. So, some 700-800 companies have interest, basic capacities and thus potential to benefit from technologies that AIRE is concentrating on. At the same time, some 100 of these companies belong to global value chains and the introduction of such innovative technologies is instructed by the technology development centres of the headquarters. In addition, cross-border clients will be contributing into achieving the objective. Thus, AIRE’s aim to focus on 250 SMEs directly is justified and a large share of the potential beneficiaries will be benefitting from WP2, WP3, WP4 and WP5 services. Second, AIRE aims 36 clients will use and benefit from EU AI Innovation infrastructure services (expecting 20 clients to use HPC services, 16 clients using TEFs) during 2025 and 2028. AIRE will collaborate with EU AI Innovation infrastructures and will become a central point for companies ensuring a flexible and seamless digital journey and referring them the services provided by these AI Innovation infrastructures when appropriate. AIRE will first map AI Innovation infrastructure opportunities, establish contacts with them, identify AIRE’s clients' needs and help our clients benefit from these services (Tasks 5.2, 5.4). As an example, AIRE already has contacts with AI Factory LUMI, thus we will formalise the collaboration and expand it to other AI infrastructure. With these contacts AIRE will facilitate access for our clients to EuroHPC AI-optimised supercomputers as well as Testing and Experimenting Facilities. We hope these contacts will fine-tune AI solutions to our clients’ business needs and us cases. Furthermore, AIRE expects to bridge the gap between AI research and real-world applications, driving economic growth and improving public services across Europe. The KPI is monitored through AIRE CRM. AIRE supported 54 demonstration projects (involving 38 SMEs) during 2022 – 2025 – the aim of these projects was to offer industrial companies researchers’ know-how to test and validate AI and robotics solutions before investments (test before invest). Companies having demonstration projects with AIRE scientific partners were more matured in digitalisation having often proper data management and digital roadmaps in place, thus we see a number of those companies will be ready to use EU AI Infrastructure services (e.g AI Factories or Testing and Experimentation Facilities). We continue collaboration with those companies towards EU AI Infrastructure services. Also, the IT and technology sector in Estonia is relatively strong serving clients worldwide, thus several clients is interested in using HPC centres for process large datasets, prototyping (e.g. cybersecurity) or train advanced AI models. Furthermore, among new client segments we see green energy, biotechnology or defence as a potential client for AI Factories running large datasets and using AI for prediction analytics, innovation and reducing time-to- market or solving complex challenges. Tasks 2.1, 2.2, 3.1, 3.4, 3.5, 5.2, 5.3 and 5.4 will serve reaching this target. Third, AIRE is contributing to the increased investments (public and private) into digitalisation (including AI) and better access to finance in Estonia. AIRE will continue providing access to finance services including providing information and facilitating access to public and private funding sources as well as public and private investors. The demand for AI related solutions to be implemented in the companies is much higher than AIRE activities can provide. Although the current project period (2022–2025) is still ongoing and many client companies have yet to finalize their post-AIRE investment activities, the AIRE centre has conducted a preliminary impact analysis of its services. According to the clients, the test-before-invest services are expected to generate, on average, a 23% increase in revenue and a 26% reduction in costs within the affected business or production line. These improvements are projected to translate into a 51% increase in added value per employee at the company level over the coming years. As a notable side effect, AIRE’s test-before-invest services have contributed to the emergence of five spinoff companies. These startups are built around the tested AI/robotics solutions, now being formalized into scalable businesses in their own right. In addition, there are numerous spillover effects on both the academic and business fronts. Academically, many project teams included bachelor’s and master’s students who gained hands-on experience with real-life business cases—often experiencing the tangible success of their work. On the business side, companies closely observe their peers successfully upgrading production lines with AI and robotics solutions, which in turn influences their own strategic decisions. While these indirect impacts are harder to quantify and take longer to materialize, they are just as significant as the more immediate, measurable outcomes. Furthermore, during the period 2022 - 2025 AIRE clients triggered additional investments in the amount of €62m (public and private, Estonian and EU funding). During this period AIRE actively built relationships with entrepreneurship ecosystem and put efforts into moving towards triple helix collaboration mechanism, where public, private and academic sectors collaborate on joint projects. Based on the already established relations to our clients and introducing new services for 2025 – 2028 (Tasks 5.3, 5.4), but also thanks to the dissemination of information, good practices and the facilitation of the networking between public actors and companies, we expect continuation of SME investments in AI in the amount of about €100m by (1) public co-funding of the AIRE supported projects and other AI projects, (2) private co-funding of the AIRE supported projects and other AI projects, and (3) as new 32 Digital Decade 2024 country report 34 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 successful applications to the national funding bodies, to the European R&D programs and investors. In overall, all AIRE services will contribute into achieving this target, but specifically Tasks 2.1, 2.2, 3.1, 3.5, 4.2, 4.3, 5.3 and 5.4 will have the highest impact. The KPI will be monitored based on Estonia’s Business and Innovation Agency’s, Tehnopol, TSP, EU programmes, companies’ and AIRE CRM data. Fourth, AIRE will act as an access point to the European network of EDIHs, helping local companies to get support from other EDIHs in case there is no suitable domains or services available in AIRE. Thus, EDIH network will act as extension to AIRE’s services enabling AIRE’s clients get larger variety of services. Also, AIRE will looking to serve other EU countries and regions companies (KPI 125 cross- border clients in AIRE’s services) via already established MoUs and LoIs (see list of MoUs and LoIs in Annex 7), marking joint activities in strategic collaboration (WP1), testing and experimenting (WP2), skill and knowledge sharing (WP2, WP3), matchmaking and networking (WP5, WP6). Furthermore, AIRE will also serve as contact point for the AI Innovation infrastructures such as AI Factories, AI-on-demand platform and Testing and Experimentation Facilities. AIRE will offer first-line AI help desk including basic information on compliance with the AI Act. A strategic partnership will be created with 40 key AI ecosystem organisations and initiatives (i.e. EDIHs, TEFs, EDICs and other) and SMEs or mid-caps from all over Europe that will benefit directly from AIRE or other EDIHs’ services (in addition to Estonian clients). Tasks 2.1, 2.2, 3.4, 5.2, 5.3, 5.4 are directly targeted to achieve this outcome. The KPI will be monitored based on AIRE CRM. More specifically, fifth, AIRE’s main contribution is related to increasing the digital maturity of the Estonian SMEs in all sectors. We expect at least a 15% increase by 2028 in the digital maturity of companies that have used the services of the AIRE network based on a digital maturity assessment (DMA) tool developed by the Joint Research Centre (JRC). This is an impact indicator to be collected and analysed. The KPI will be monitored based on DMA data. Based on previous experiences from the period 2022 - 2025, AIRE will keep measuring the digital maturity level of its clients. We will do it based on JRC DMA tool. The JRC DMA tool covers basic digitalisation areas (Digital Business Strategy, Digital Readiness, Human-Centric Digitalization, Data Management, Automation & AI, and Green Digitalization) serving well AIRE’s expanded range of domains and clients as well as enabling comparison with sectoral and national averages and EU-wide benchmarks. The DMA will be obligatory for every client (at least 250 unique clients) entering AIRE services (T0 baseline assessment) (except Tasks 3.3, 3.4, 5.2, 6.4). The mid-term assessment in M18 (T1) and final assessment in M36 (T2) will be provided to all at least 250 unique clients to track evolution of digital maturity over time. The minimum level of questionnaires to be answered is 100 (e.g. 100 clients together for T1 and T2). Lastly, it is essential fostering AIRE clients using EU AI technologies (e.g. AI systems, tools, platforms or research), which are developed and originated in the EU and follows EU trust and ethics (e.g. GDPR, AI Act etc). AIRE aims to support 100 clients using EU AI technologies through (1) awareness rising by trainings and webinars (Tasks 3.3, 3.4) and AI Act compliance counselling (Task 3.1); (2) test before invest services like AI suitability assessment (Task 2.1) and AI demo projects (Task 2.2); (3) support to find funding (Task 4.2, 4.3) and (4) using EU AI Innovation infrastructure (Task 5.4). AIRE supports its clients in these services with several experienced AI researchers and experts, who will consult on using AI technologies developed and originated in the EU. Furthermore, based on results and experiences from 2022 - 2025 AIRE will continue with dissemination and awareness rising activities on AI technologies through AIRE Clubs (Task 6.5), where best practices and real-world experiences will be shared. Also, AIRE expands its collaboration and activities with other EDIHs, thus best practices and insights can also be shared via webinars (Task 3.4) and seminars/joint meetings (task 5.2, 5.3). The KPI will be monitored based on AIRE CRM. All services and KPIs are a subject to be adjusted during the project implementation according to the market demand. Dissemination and communication of the project and its results If relevant, describe the communication and dissemination activities, activities (target groups, main messages, tools, and channels) which are planned in order to promote the activities/results and maximise the impact. The aim is to inform and reach out to society and show the activities performed, and the use and the benefits the project will have for citizens Clarify how you will reach the target groups, relevant stakeholders, policymakers and the general public and explain the choice of the dissemination channels. Describe how the visibility of EU funding will be ensured. In case your proposal is selected for funding, you will have to provide a more detailed plan for these activities (dissemination and communication plan), within 6 months after grant signature. This plan will have to be periodically updated; in line with the project progress. 35 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 The goal of AIRE’s dissemination and communication activities is to support accomplishing AIRE’s mission through dissemination of AIRE’s results and communication of AIRE’s impact (see also AIRE objectives in Section 1.1). The communication activities for 2025–2028 are designed to support all AIRE’s strategic goals, with special focus on promoting collaboration with EU AI ecosystem to reinforce Europe’s position as a global innovation leader. The communication and dissemination activities address all primary target groups presented in Section 1.1. The overall knowledge level of target audience about the value and opportunities of AI in Estonia has been increased, but still needs to be further addressed for reaching the critical minimum for ensuring sufficient investments into AI technologies. Also, the primary challenge of digitalisation the production is shortage of capital - the goal is to introduce the benefits of AI, provide needed support on the path, offer tailor-made solutions and help the target audience to find financing to start using AI in their processes and production. For dissemination and communication purposes the companies will be segmented into smaller target groups and messages will be tailored according to their specific needs (depending on the level of knowledge and assessed digital maturity; target groups will be determined in the Dissemination and Communication Plan (D6.1)). The basis of the segmentation, consortium will use digital maturity assessment results, collaboration partners client segments, clients’ economic sector, AIRE dissemination lists and CRM. In addition, target groups include the EU AI ecosystem and EDIH customers across Europe, with AIRE serving as Estonia’s bridging centre for local clients expanding internationally, leveraging EU AI ecosystem services, the EDIH network, and adopting European AI technologies. For identifying EU customers across Europe, partner EDIHs’ client bases will be used. The potential client segments will be determined in collaboration with the relevant EDIH. Ecosystem stakeholders are welcomed to follow AIRE channels and participate in the networking and AIRE club events. They will be invited if relevant to the trainings, webinars, podcasts and content providers to the services. Information will be shared through partner EDIHs’ network. Main messages to the different target audiences will be phrased based on the segment needs and finalised together with the consortium, then tested and fine-tuned. As communication activities either increase the brand awareness and basic knowledge of AI and the benefits of using it or emerge the desire to participate in the project, the messages are designed accordingly (e.g., unlock your company’s potential with AI and robotics; AI helps your company to gain competitive advantage! Join our AI training; How to make AI work … eventually, learning from the mistakes of the best practitioners, etc.). For the bigger campaigns, the A/B testing of visuals and messages will be held. A graphic designer will be involved to design the visuals. Communication channels will be used based on the OSEP (Owned-Shared-Earned-Paid) model. Currently, AIRE has a website aire-edih.eu (150 000 visits since autumn 2021), Facebook page (reach 104 000, 225 600 views, 872 followers), Instagram page (active 7 months, reach 5700, 17 000 views, 130 followers), direct mailing list (appr. 1000 manufacturing companies and all together 9500 people from various partners and members of the network), LinkedIn page (1800 followers, 170 000 impressions per year). In addition to AIRE communication channels consortium partners’ channels will be used enabling multiplying the potential size of the end target group. The goal is to constantly increase the followers of the owned channels, use consortium partner’s channels and create an ecosystem and partner list, to reach the audience even better. Communication and dissemination activities will be executed together with consortium partners. Below there are indicated the list of the key activities that will either provide needed insight for the plan and relevant messaging for target audience or create the content needed to gain the objectives of relevant WP. • aire-edih.eu website update: New content to be included: updated services, renewed focus of the AIRE centre, renewed target groups, KPI-s and formats of telling the success-stories. General ser experience audit and refreshments. • Events and activities pre- and post-communication to introduce the value that AIRE creates to the companies (trainings, webinars, AIRE Clubs, matchmaking and networking events, final event gala) and how it boosts the field of AI and its stakeholders. Calls for ideas will be provided to find demo projects that will be supported by AIRE throughout the path until the successful adaptation of AI into processes. • Digital Maturity Assessment results will be compiled once a year and introduced to the wider audience as the important KPI that measures the digitalisation level of the target audience. AIRE services that are introduced under the WPs will be advertised and communicated to find users. When possible, the communication will use the actual clients and their recommendations as well as positive experience/impact sharing. Video blogs and videos of best practices and webinars will be created and disseminated by the consortium partners through their channels and AIRE 36 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 channels. Positive quotes about collaboration from well-known entrepreneurs, experts, and researchers. The produced material will be used In AIRE’s digital communication channels as well as during AIRE Clubs and the biggest events in the region that focus on AI and robotics. • Links to European AI infrastructure (AI-on-Demand Platform, AI Skills Academy, AI Factories, TEFs, AI Regulatory Sandboxes) will be created in AIRE’s communication activities. • The visibility of EU funding will be ensured by including cooperation logos and messages on all marketing materials and visuals. EU funding will also be acknowledged at events and in all related coverage materials. All dissemination and communication activities will be presented in the Dissemination and Communication Plan (D6.1) by M3. #§COM-DIS-VIS-CDV§# 3.2 Competitiveness and benefits for society Competitiveness and benefits for the society Describe the extent to which the project will strengthen competitiveness and bring important benefits for society AIRE is unlocking the untapped potential of digital technologies for increased competitiveness and resource-efficiency in Estonia´s SMEs not only in the manufacturing sector, but in all economic sectors addressing an important strategic challenge in Estonia (see Section 1.2). The intervention is mostly related to the actual implementation of innovative AI projects in the Estonian SMEs, thus addressing the R&D and innovation funding gap (see Section 1.4), complemented by training activities, consulting and networking, and contributing to the Estonian digital transition (see Section 3.1) and strengthening collaboration with EU AI Infrastructures (see Sections 1.1, 1.3 and 3.1). During the period 2022 and 2025 AIRE’s focus was on introducing AIRE services in the domestic market and support Estonian manufacturing SMEs in digitalisation through AI and robotic solution (e.g. more than 270 unique clients, 54 demonstration projects on AI and robotics and more than 1200 participants in trainings). Strong ties with Estonian ecosystem were built - more than 2200 participants attended AIRE Clubs, joint AIRE 2025+ strategy development with all AIRE stakeholders was provided, more than 115 clients were directed to Estonian Business Innovation Agency. Furthermore, AIRE was attractive gameplayer to other EDIHs – we have tight connections with 18 EDIHs across Europe, we organised joint webinars with ShiftLabs from Sweden, ARIC from Germany and FAIR in Finland, as well as provided one international AIRE Club with 10 EDIHs in attendance. But the most important, we were presented at European level stages on EDIH Summit in 2024, but also on ADRA Annual Conference workshop and Frankfurt Technology Fair – AIRE has been actively built international network and has been seen on EU level (see also Section 1.2). For 2025 – 2028 the main direct contribution of AIRE, in addition to raising awareness and increasing competitiveness of Estonian SMEs of all aspects of AI, is to considerably strengthen the collaboration with EU AI ecosystem, including EDIHs, AI Factories, TEFs, but also AI Regulatory Sandboxes and AI- on-demand platform. All AIRE’s services for 2025 – 2028 are designed based on this long-term objective. During 2022 and 2025 the impact of AIRE services has been significant – AIRE clients have triggered additional investments (public, private, Estonian and EU funding) for about €62m, the digital maturity level of AIRE clients has increased about 18% and within the coming two – three years AIRE clients plan to invest about additional €29m into AI and robotics solutions. One of the main conclusions from AIRE’s recent impact assessment, is that the level of awareness and ability of AIRE’s clients to invest into AI technologies has been increased over the last years. Having said this, the timing of putting AIRE services’ focus on supporting its clients conquering European markets cannot be better. Thus, for the period of 2025 – 2028 AIRE services will focus on supporting Estonian SMEs going global through the EU AI ecosystem services. Focus will be put on more digitalised companies with willingness to grow and continue investing into AI technologies. This approach is well in line with overall Estonian innovation ecosystem – along the roadmap of technology development/adaptation, universities address TRL 1-4 with basic research (collaboration with companies through academia – business contracts), Estonian Business Innovation Agency offers public measures to cover TRL 3-5 (Applied Research Programme) as well as digitalisation and overall innovation of businesses (Development support, Horizon Europe EIC Accelerator, Digital Transformation) and AIRE targets TRL 6-7 (testing and experimenting before market/investment), where the gap of funding is the biggest. Once the technology is tested or introduced to the market, private investors are more eager to come on board (TRL 8-9). Thus, AIRE targets the market failure phase, which is the riskiest in terms of unknown outcomes. Companies directly receiving AIRE services as well as a wider set of companies are expected to benefit from the EU AI Ecosystem. Scalable AI pilots are preferred as test before invest demo projects that could be transferred to other companies, other sectors and domains (Task 2.2, Task 3.1). There is already an outstanding set of test before invest demo projects technological solutions tested (see AIRE 37 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 GitHub), which will be shared via AI-on-demand platform (Task 2.3). We will carefully select a few AIRE clients already provided the demonstration project to be recommended for AI Factories to test and teach more complicated AI systems (Task 5.4). Also, AIRE is about to introduce its own AI toolbox (with collaboration of the Ministry of Justice) to be offered to its clients (Task 3.5). Furthermore, additional collaborations with at least 40 EDIHs will be established to offer cross-border services (Task 5.3). In the long run, this should contribute to increasing the economic performance of Estonian companies. For example, the labour productivity of Estonian companies in the Estonia’s key exporting industries is 2-3 times less than that of Finland and Sweden, and this gap has not improved significantly in the last decade. There are many factors that have led to this, but the relatively slow digital transformation is also a key reason – digital transformation has been one of the most important sources of economic productivity growth in OECD countries in recent decades. Please see Figure 8 below: Figure 8. Societal benefits of AIRE activities Another key contribution of the project is related to the overall improvement in the ecosystem. AIRE brings together the universities, science parks, research centres and the SMEs both in Estonia as well as on EU level. The networking spans across the borders as active cooperation is foreseen with other EDIHs and EU AI ecosystem parties, to provide access to the top EU level knowledge. AIRE will operate as access point to the European network of EU AI ecosystem (e.g. EDIHs, TEFs, AI Factories etc). AIRE has already been active player in the network of EDIHs – we will continue sharing best practices and specific knowledge (Task 3.4), bringing companies into contact with other companies of their value chain, and seeking synergies with innovators and adopters that test solutions in novel experiments and foster the adoption of digital technologies and notably AI, in working and business environments in a more human - friendly way. The latter is covered by the newest member of AIRE consortium – Tallinn University – bringing on board the human centric approach to AI. AIRE has become a national competence centre on AI playing central role in the EDIH ecosystem and bringing together relevant local and EU level actors. Having said this, AIRE has strong links with regional authorities, industrial clusters, SME Associations and Enterprise Europe Network, business development agencies, incubators/accelerators, research funding agency (Estonian Research Council) and policymakers (Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communications, Ministry of Justice) (see the list of Associated Partners in Section 2.3). AIRE services 2025 – 2028 are designed and consulted with all stakeholders ensuring complementarity to other public funds (double funding within the local ecosystem is excluded). AIRE complements and builds synergy with existing national initiatives and is a central point for companies in issues related to AI. As a national competence centre in AI, AIRE designs its operations and services to achieve sustainability beyond 2028 being able to raise funds for its future activities as well as continue providing societal benefits also in the long run. AIRE has several matured services, which are well accepted in the market and where societal benefits are clearly visible – we will continue with these services to maximise the benefits (Task 2.1, Task 2.2, Task 6.4). Specifically, economic benefits in the number of additional investments are foreseen 2025 – 2028 about €100m. In addition, services like trainings (Task 3.3) and webinars (Task 3.4), AI Act awareness and Toolbox (Task 3.5) or first-line AI Helpdesk (Task 3.1) will contribute into increasing skills and AI-capable workforce and ethical and trustworthy AI use. All AIRE services contribute towards increased use of AI technologies, but we will pay specific attention on supporting 38 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 clients in the use of EU AI technologies (Task 2.2, task 2.2, Task 3.1, Task 3.4). Another clear benefit admitted during 2022 – 2025 is increased level of academic outputs – test before invest demonstration projects generated eight research articles and there is potential for five new spin-offs to be created. Most of the demonstration projects involved students from Bachelor, Master as well as PhD levels. Furthermore, most researchers being involved in the demonstration projects expressed their benefits from collaborating with companies - the aim of collaboration was clear, the period was quick, which required focusing, the project team had real-life challenge to solve, and hands-on experience gave better connection with the market. 3.3 Environmental sustainability and contribution to European Green Deal goals Environmental sustainability and contribution to European Green Deal goals Describe the extent to which the project will contribute to environmental sustainability and in particular to European Green Deal goals This might not be applicable to all topics — for details refer to the Call document. Not applicable #§IMP-ACT-IA§# 39 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 #@WRK-PLA-WP@# 4. WORK PLAN, WORK PACKAGES, ACTIVITIES, RESOURCES AND TIMING 4.1 Work plan Work plan Provide a brief description of the overall structure of the work plan (list of work packages or graphical presentation (Pert chart or similar)). 40 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 4.2 Work packages, activities, resources and timing WORK PACKAGES Work packages This section concerns a detailed description of the project activities. Group your activities into work packages. A work package means a major sub-division of the project. For each work package, enter an objective (expected outcome) and list the activities, milestones and deliverables that belong to it. The grouping should be logical and guided by identifiable outputs. Projects should normally have a minimum of 2 work packages. WP1 should cover the management and coordination activities (meetings, coordination, project monitoring and evaluation, financial management, progress reports, etc) and all the activities which are cross-cutting and therefore difficult to assign to another specific work package (do not try splitting these activities across different work packages). WP2 and further WPs should be used for the other project activities. You can create as many work packages as needed by copying WP1. For very simple projects, it is possible to use a single work package for the entire project (WP1 with the project acronym as WP name). Work packages covering financial support to third parties ( only allowed if authorised in the Call document) must describe the conditions for implementing the support (for grants: max amounts per third party; criteria for calculating the exact amounts, types of activity that qualify (closed list), persons/categories of persons to be supported and criteria and procedures for giving support; for prizes: eligibility and award criteria, amount of the prize and payment arrangements). Enter each activity/milestone/output/outcome/deliverable only once (under one work package). Ensure consistency with the detailed budget table/calculator (if applicable). (n/a for prefixed Lump Sum Grants) Objectives List the specific objectives to which the work package aims to achieve. Activities and division of work (WP description) Provide a concise overview of the work (planned tasks). Be specific and give a short name and number for each task. Show who is participating in each task: Coordinator (COO), Beneficiaries (BEN), Affiliated Entities (AE), Associated Partners (AP), indicating in bold the task leader. Add information on other participants’ involvement in the project e.g. subcontractors, in-kind contributions. Note: In-kind contributions: In-kind contributions for free are cost-neutral, i.e. cannot be declared as cost. Please indicate the in-kind contributions that are provided in the context of the work package. The Coordinator remains fully responsible for the coordination tasks, even if they are delegated to someone else. Coordinator tasks cannot be subcontracted. If there is subcontracting, please also complete the table below. Milestones and deliverables (outputs/outcomes) Milestones are control points in the project that help to chart progress (e.g. completion of a key deliverable allowing the next phase of the work to begin). Use them only for major outputs in complex projects, otherwise leave the section empty. Please limit the number of milestones by work package. Means of verification are how you intend to prove that a milestone has been reached. If appropriate, you can also refer to indicators. Deliverables are project outputs which are submitted to show project progress (any format). Refer only to major outputs. Do not include minor sub-items, internal working papers, meeting minutes, etc. Limit the number of deliverables to max 10-15 for the entire project. You may be asked to further reduce the number during grant preparation. For deliverables such as meetings, events, seminars, trainings, workshops, webinars, conferences, etc., enter each deliverable separately and provide the following in the 'Description' field: invitation, agenda, signed presence list, target group, number of estimated participants, duration of the event, report of the event, training material package, presentations, evaluation report, feedback questionnaire. For deliverables such as manuals, toolkits, guides, reports, leaflets, brochures, training materials etc., add in the ‘Description’ field: format (electronic or printed), language(s), approximate number of pages and estimated number of copies of publications (if any). For each deliverable you will have to indicate a due month by when you commit to upload it in the Portal. The due month of the deliverable cannot be outside the duration of the work package and must be in line with the timeline provided below. Month 1 marks the start of the project and all deadlines should be related to this starting date. 41 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 The labels used mean: Public — fully open ( automatically posted online on the Project Results platforms) Sensitive — limited under the conditions of the Grant Agreement EU classified — RESTREINT-UE/EU-RESTRICTED, CONFIDENTIEL-UE/EU-CONFIDENTIAL, SECRET-UE/EU-SECRET under Decision 2015/444. For items classified under other rules (e.g. national or international organisation), please select the equivalent EU classification level. Work Package 1 Work Package 1: Project management and coordination Duration: M1 – M36 Lead Beneficiary: 1-TalTech Objectives The specific objectives of this WP1 are to coordinate the project, manage administrative and financial matters, organise the Steering Group and the high-level Advisory Board of AIRE (level 3 management) and control quality and monitor impact based on milestones, deliverables and KPIs. Activities and division of work (WP description) Task No Task Name Description Participants In-kind (continuous Contributions numbering and linked to Name Role Subcontracting WP) (COO, BEN, (Yes/No and AE, AP, which) OTHER) T1.1 Strategic management Once a year a joint meeting is held with the AIRE team TALTECH COO Yes (project manager, COO, CFO, Client Relations Manager), UT BEN (subcontracting) WP leaders, project partners and other key experts, the EMU BEN Steering Group and the Advisory Board. Project TEHNOPOL BEN management handbook is prepared for the kick-off meeting TSP BEN taking place at M1. Review meetings are planned M12 and IMECC BEN M24 and M36. TLU BEN Associated partners (all) AP T1.2 Organisation of the Advisory Once a year, an Advisory Board (AB) meeting is organised TALTECH COO No Board for test before invest with project partners, Associated Partners, external experts UT BEN (industry involvement) and their formal reviews prepared and presented. In EMU BEN addition to a review of KPIs and impact, AB takes part in TEHNOPOL BEN the selection of AIRE test before invest demo projects. TSP BEN Minimum of 3 AB meetings will be organised. In addition, IMECC BEN 42 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 ad-hoc consultations or meetings will be provided based on TLU BEN the need. Associated partners (ITL, AP EML, EEL) T1.3 Steering Group (SG) meetings Once quarter Steering Group (SG) meetings are organised TALTECH COO No (internal management) to monitor the financial management, project progress and UT BEN impact as well as organisation of the AIRE/EDIH project. EMU BEN The SC consists of legal representatives of each partner or TEHNOPOL BEN staff delegated by the legal representative. Also, reviews of TSP BEN AB members are presented to SG once a year. IMECC BEN TLU BEN T1.4 Progress and impact monitoring The progress and impact of the services is monitored TALTECH COO No throughout the service period by the leading service UT BEN partner. Project progress is monitored through monthly EMU BEN progress meetings, organised with WP managers and TEHNOPOL BEN project partners. The KPIs are monitored through CRM by TSP BEN Client Relations Manager. IMECC BEN The progress overview to consortium partners is done TLU BEN quarterly on Steering Group meetings and the impact overview twice a year, in February and August to all consortium partners, associated partners, steering group members, including clients. T1.5 Participation in DTA activities Participation in DTA activities and collaboration to build TALTECH COO No and collaboration EDIH community, share experiences and get new UT BEN knowledge, network, build cohesion between EDIHs and EMU BEN capacity to implement cross-border services. TEHNOPOL BEN TSP BEN IMECC BEN TLU BEN Milestones and deliverables (outputs/outcomes) Milestone Milestone Name Work Lead Description Due Date Means of Verification No Package No Beneficiary (month number) MS1 All project WP1 TALTECH A detailed overview of project M3 D1.1 Project Management management management structures and procedures is Handbook structures and provided in D1.1 Project Management procedures in place Handbook Deliverable Deliverable Name Work Lead Type Dissemination Due Date Description No Package No Beneficiary Level (month (including format and language) number) 43 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 D1.1 Project WP1 TALTECH R PU M3 Project management handbook, consisting of all management relevant templates and forms for effective handbook coordination, administration and financial management created by M1. (ENG, pdf). D1.2 Data Management WP1 UT R PU M6 Data Management Plan prepared including Plan principles and procedures, methodologies and standards of collection, handling and managing of data (ENG, pdf). D1.3 Sustainability Plan WP1 TALTECH R PU M18 Sustainability plan consisting of activities and partnerships for the centre’s long-term plan beyond the EDIH funding. (ENG, pdf). Estimated budget — Resources Participant Costs (n/a for Lump Sum Grants) A. Personnel B. C.1 Travel C.2 C.3 Other D.1 Financial D.2 D.3 PAC E. Indirect Total Subcontra and Equipmen goods, support to third Internally procuremen costs costs cting subsistenc t works and parties invoiced t costs e services goods and (for PAC services Grants for Procurement) TALTECH 61,65 339 098 14 872 205 EUR 0 EUR 22 482 0 grants 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 26 366 403 023 person EUR EUR EUR EUR EUR months UT 23,72 104 380 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 prizes 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 7 307 EUR 111 687 person EUR EUR months EMU 11,60 41 752 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 prizes 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 2 923 EUR 44 675 person EUR EUR months TEHNOPOL 6,26 37 690 0 EUR 4 062 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 prizes 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 2 923 EUR 44 675 person EUR EUR EUR months TSP 10,80 41 751 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 prizes 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 2 923 EUR 44 674 person EUR EUR months IMECC 7,20 41 752 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 prizes 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 2 923 EUR 44 675 person EUR EUR months 44 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 TLU 3,6 20 876 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 prizes 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 1 461 EUR 22 337 person EUR EUR months Total 124,84 627 299 14 872 4 267 0 EUR 22 482 0 grants 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 46 824 715 744 person EUR EUR EUR EUR 0 prizes EUR EUR months For Lump Sum Grants, see detailed budget table/calculator (annex 1 to Part B; see Portal Reference Documents). Work Package 2 Work Package 2: Test Before Invest Duration: M1 – Lead Beneficiary: 1-TALTECH M36 Objectives The overall objective is to support SMEs with test before invest services ensuring the suitability and adaptability of the technology before making an investment. The specific aim is to carry out experimentation with new digital technologies related to AI – software and hardware – to understand new opportunities and return on investments, also including demonstration facilities and piloting. The test before invest services include AI suitability assessment (individual consulting, T2.1) and AI test before invest demo projects with the industry for testing, piloting and experimenting (T2.2). The WP also includes integration of AIRE services outcomes with EU AI Ecosystem (i.e. sharing and scaling of demoprojects’ results, Task 2.3). Activities and division of work (WP description) Task No Task Name Description Participants In-kind Contributions and Subcontracting (Yes/No and which) Name Role (COO, BEN, AE, AP, OTHER) T2.1 AI suitability analysis With AI consulting services, AIRE assesses SME’s ability to implement AI TSP COO Yes (Subcontracting) solutions and gives concrete recommendations to SMEs. The assessment will TEHNOPOL BEN result in an expert opinion, consisting of a mapping of the current state of business, an analysis of digital technologies and data usage, and the feasibility/probability and practicality of implementing AI solutions. AIRE also technically validates AI technologies, prototypes and runs SME’s data on established AI models to validate their suitability. The end goal is that after 45 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 the service, SME will have a clear and executable action plan for implementing AI in their company. Potential for opening the service cross- border. KPI 130 companies will be consulted. T2.2 Test before invest AI To support digitalisation, increase awareness and support investments, the TALTECH COO Yes (Subcontracting) demo projects (incl AIRE consortium collaborates with SMEs in carrying out test before invest AI UT BEN EU AI Infrastructure, demo projects and experiments (proof-of-concept phase of innovation EMU BEN HPC, TEF etc) projects). Projects/clients are selected via open calls for ideas. This is not TSP BEN cascade-funding (only consortium-related costs are budgeted). KPI: Total of IMECC BEN 25 companies use-cases are involved to test before invest pilots in 2025- TLU BEN 2028. The demo projects will be carefully selected based on their objective to invest into AI technologies, growth ambitions and ability to collaborate with EU AI Infrastructure services. The precondition for applying for demo project is AI suitability assessment (Task 2.1), also impact assessment is recommended to present (Task 3.1). This service is followed with consulting related to access to funding (Tasks 4.2, 4.3), finding opportunities for cross- border services (Task 5.3) or Access to EU AI Infrastructure (Task 5.4). T2.3 Integration of AIRE There are 54 demo projects implemented during the period 2022-2025. All TALTECH COO No results with EU AI demo projects validated technological solutions are published in AIRE Github. ecosystem (i.e. AI on- The task is aimed to scale up AIRE’s technological solutions through sharing demand platform) the results via EU AI ecosystem network making them available for wider range of SMEs in Europe. Milestones and deliverables (outputs/outcomes) Milestone No Milestone Name Work Lead Description Due Date Means of Verification Package No Beneficiary (month number) MS2 Test before invest client WP2 TalTech 50% of the target number of clients in service in all M18 D2.1 Impact report engagement target on test before invest service categories (AI and track by M18: 50% of the robotics suitability assessment, demo projects) by total number of clients in M18 service by M18 MS3 Integration of AIRE WP2 TalTech Connection to EU AI Ecosystem is created. AIRE M12 At least 10 projects are results established with results will be shared, and process how to linked with AI-on-demand EU AI Ecosystem M12 collaborate with EU AI Ecosystem is clear and platform agreed. Deliverable No Deliverable Name Work Lead Type Dissemination Due Date Description Package No Beneficiary Level (month number) (including format and language) D2.1 Impact Report WP2 TalTech R PU M18 D2.1 Impact Report (Holistic report covering all WPs impact) (ENG, pdf) 46 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 D2.2 Impact Report WP2 TalTech R PU M36 D2.2 Impact Report (Holistic report covering all WPs impact) (ENG, pdf) Estimated budget — Resources Participant Costs (n/a for Lump Sum Grants) A. Personnel B. C.1 Travel C.2 C.3 Other D.1 Financial D.2 D.3 PAC E. Indirect Total Subcontra and Equipmen goods, support to third Internally procuremen costs costs cting subsistenc t works and parties invoiced t costs e services goods and (for PAC services Grants for Procurement) TALTECH 92,93 511 116 35 535 755 EUR 0 EUR 22 480 0 grants 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 39 892 609 778 person EUR EUR EUR EUR EUR months UT 74,79 329 093 8 000 4 000 0 EUR 25 000 0 prizes 0 EUR 4 000 EUR 0 EUR 25 907 396 000 person EUR EUR EUR EUR EUR EUR months EMU 33,93 122 131 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 16 654 0 prizes 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 9 715 EUR 148 500 person EUR EUR EUR months TEHNOPOL 39,84 240 062 9 000 4 798 0 EUR 16 000 0 prizes 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 18 890 288 750 person EUR EUR EUR EUR EUR EUR months TSP 61,20 373 445 0 EUR 15 000 0 EUR 25 000 0 prizes 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 28 941 442 386 person EUR EUR EUR EUR EUR months IMECC 15,90 89 978 0 EUR 300 EUR 0 EUR 2 245 EUR 0 prizes 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 6 477 EUR 99 000 person EUR EUR months TLU 9 person 44 762 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 1 500 EUR 0 prizes 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 3 238 EUR 49 500 months EUR EUR Total 327,59 1 52 535 24 853 0 EUR 108 879 0 grants 0 EUR 4 000 EUR 0 EUR 133 060 2 033 914 person 710 587 EUR EUR EUR 0 prizes EUR EUR months EUR For Lump Sum Grants, see detailed budget table/calculator (annex 1 to Part B; see Portal Reference Documents). 47 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 Work Package 3 Work Package 3: Skills and training Duration: M1 – Lead Beneficiary: UT M36 Objectives The objective of WP3 is to improve the industry’s knowledge, awareness and skills in the fields of digitalisation technologies, AI and robotics. AIRE will become the First- line AI Helpdesk for SMEs. Awareness on AI Act compatibility will be created. Activities and division of work (WP description) Task No Task Name Description Participants In-kind Contributions and Name Role Subcontracting (COO, BEN, (Yes/No and AE, AP, which) OTHER) T3.1 First-line AI helpdesk on The aim of the First-line AI Helpdesk in the context of AI innovation serves as an TALTECH COO Yes AI innovation initial support mechanism designed to assist SMEs in navigating the UT BEN (Subcontracting) complexities of adopting and implementing AI technologies. Its primary aim is to EMU BEN provide accessible, reliable, and immediate assistance to entities embarking on TEHNOPOL BEN their AI journey, ensuring they can leverage AI effectively and responsibly. The TSP BEN service is aimed to be a flexible opportunity to address a variety of issues by IMECC BEN clients, e.g. consult clients on ad-hoc questions related to AI, provide deeper TLU BEN digital maturity assessments complemented with consultation, allow clients to have pre-demo project consultation (i.e. feasibility and potential impact of the technological solution, follow-up technology roadmap to investment after demo project, consult on scaling up of the technological solutions, consultation on EU AI technologies, robotisation suitability assessment etc) KPI: total 486 client days of consultation (client day = 8h) T3.2 Analysis of needs and Based on results and experiences from 2022-2025 skills and knowledge gap UT COO No the skills development analysis and training needs of SMEs will be conducted (incl. publicly available plan reports, input from Associated Partners, clients, previous results and experiences etc.) T3.3 Organisation of Training courses (min 8h) in the fields of AI to support the digital transformation UT COO Yes trainings of Estonian manufacturing and its related value chain companies. Trainings are TALTECH BEN (Subcontracting) designed to enhance practical skills, promote technology adoption, and build TLU BEN 48 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 long-term capabilities among companies and specialists. KPI: total 130 participants trained T3.4 Webinars to SMEs for Webinars (1,5-3h) targeted at SMEs and public to strengthen their skills and UT COO Yes AI skills knowledge in AI related topics. Webinars aim to raise awareness, provide TALTECH BEN (Subcontracting) practical insights, and encourage the adoption of AI technologies to boost EMU BEN innovation and competitiveness of SMEs. The service will be provided cross- border. KPI: total 260 participants attended T3.5 AI Act awareness & The aim of the service is to increase SMEs’ awareness on AI Act and the TALTECH COO No Toolbox associated Toolbox. The Act and the Toolbox is designed to assist SMEs, startups and public institutions in understanding, preparing for, and complying with the EU’s AI Act. This support is crucial as the AI Act introduces a comprehensive regulatory framework governing the development and use of AI within the EU. The aim is also to encourage SMEs to invest into AI solutions and give them confidence in the framework of the AI Act. Individual consultations on compatibility with the Act and advice on the use of AI Toolbox will be given. KPI: total 140 clients consulted Milestones and deliverables (outputs/outcomes) Milestone Milestone Name Work Lead Description Due Date Means of Verification No Package Beneficiary (month No number) MS4 AI related skills and WP3 UT Based on previous experiences, an analysis of M3 D3.1 Analysis of needs and knowledge to be developed skills and knowledge development needs is skills development plan are recognised provided. MS5 AI Toolbox is launched WP3 TALTECH The AI Toolbox is created and launched and is M12 Print screen (and link) of ready to be offered to SMEs. the online Toolbox Deliverable Deliverable Name Work Lead Type Disseminat Due Date Description No Package Beneficiary ion Level (month (including format and language) No number) D3.1 Analysis of needs and WP3 UT R PU M3 An overview of local trainings market and SME needs skills development plan analysis, i.e. skills and knowledge on AI Act. Analysis is based on experiences from 2022-2025 and clients’ feedback. (ENG, pdf) D3.2 Final report on training and WP3 UT R PU M36 Final report on trainings and webinars carried out (including skills a list of participants, company profiles, obtained skills and feedback). The report includes overview of activities and results of the First-Line AI Helpdesk and AI Act awareness services. (ENG, pdf) 49 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 Estimated budget — Resources Participant Costs (n/a for Lump Sum Grants) A. Personnel B. C.1 Travel C.2 C.3 Other D.1 Financial D.2 D.3 PAC E. Indirect Total Subcontra and Equipmen goods, support to third Internally procuremen costs costs cting subsistenc t works and parties invoiced t costs e services goods and (for PAC services Grants for Procurement) TALTECH 51,43 282 842 2 497 0 EUR 0 EUR 7 517 EUR 0 grants 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 20 500 313 356 person EUR EUR EUR EUR months UT 61,30 269 724 3 000 1 000 0 EUR 4 000 EUR 0 prizes 0 EUR 1 000 EUR 0 EUR 19 511 278 724 person EUR EUR EUR EUR EUR months EMU 5,74 20 668 0 EUR 3 000 0 EUR 4 500 EUR 0 prizes 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 1 972 EUR 30 140 person EUR EUR EUR months TEHNOPOL 3,60 21 690 19 431 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 prizes 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 2 878 EUR 43 999 person EUR EUR EUR months TSP 3,60 16 449 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 prizes 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 1 151 EUR 17 600 person EUR EUR months IMECC 16,90 95 992 0 EUR 2 700 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 prizes 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 6 908 EUR 105 600 person EUR EUR EUR months TLU 5 person 27 841 0 EUR 3 000 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 prizes 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 2 159 EUR 33 000 months EUR EUR EUR Total 147,57 735 206 24 928 9 700 0 EUR 16 017 0 grants 0 EUR 1 000 EUR 0 EUR 55 080 841 931 person EUR EUR EUR EUR 0 prizes EUR EUR months For Lump Sum Grants, see detailed budget table/calculator (annex 1 to Part B; see Portal Reference Documents). 50 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 Work Package 4 Work Package 4: Support to Find Investments Duration: M1 - M36 Lead Beneficiary: TEHNOPOL Objectives The objective of WP4 is to consult clients (mainly manufacturing companies) in finding state, regional, EU and private funding and loans (collaboration with banks) for financing AI related digitalisation projects and thus supporting investments to innovation. Activities and division of work (WP description) Task No Task Name Description Participants In-kind (continuous Contributions numbering and linked to Name Role Subcontracting WP) (COO, BEN, (Yes/No and AE, AP, which) OTHER) T4.1 Funding roadmap development Mapping public funding measures, private capital and accelerators to TEHNOPOL COO No understand the market and funding opportunities. Collaboration with EEN. T4.2 Consulting on access to The aim of the service is to support SMEs in finding funding for investments TALTECH COO No funding (public funding) into AI technologies. While, for example, AI suitability assessment (Task UT BEN 2.1), AI demoprojects (Task 2.2), but also First-Line AI Helpdesk (Task 3.1) and AI Act awareness consultation (Task 3.5) are for consulting and testing technologies before investment, then this task provides opportunities to find funding for investments from public measures. The task includes keeping the list of Estonian and EU public funding measures updated; keeping and developing contacts with Estonian entrepreneurship funding ecosystem; investigating new EU public funding opportunities; consulting clients on public funding measures. Mixed funding (public and private) will be used when necessary. Also, clients will be consulted on participating on AI tenders. KPI: 200 clients will be consulted. T4.3 Consulting on access to In parallel with Task 4.2 AIRE’s clients are consulted on finding funding TEHNOPOL COO No funding (private funding) opportunities from private funding. The task involves: consulting clients involving private funding and loans for AI investments; consulting clients involving private funding and loans for innovation projects; managing contacts with Estonian and EU entrepreneurship funding ecosystem and investors. Mixed funding (public and private) will be used when necessary. KPI: 50 clients will be consulted 51 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 T4.4 Preparation and submission of The aim is to map and manage opportunities for further collaboration with TALTECH COO Yes funding proposals for EU EDIHs on joint funding proposals. The task includes creating and updating (Subcontracting) collaboration of EDIHs etc. a list of EU projects funding calls and opportunities (e.g. Horizon, DEP, Interreg etc); identifying collaboration opportunities with other EDIHs, clients and AIRE consortium partners; facilitating collaboration negotiations, proposals' development and contract signature; manage projects' implementation. Milestones and deliverables (outputs/outcomes) Milestone No Milestone Name Work Lead Description Due Date Means of Verification Package Beneficiary (month No number) MS6 Support-to-find WP4 TEHNOPOL 50% of the target number of clients M18 50% of total number of clients funding client consulted related to financing opportunities serviced (based on AIRE CRM) engagement (regarding both public and private funding target on track by sources) by M18. M18 Deliverable No Deliverable Work Lead Type Dissemination Due Date Description Name Package Beneficiary Level (month (including format and language) No number) D4.1 Roadmap for WP4 TEHNOPOL R PU M6 Funding roadmap covers a list of funding financing measures, keywords, eligibility, co-financing measures for rules, budget limits, etc as a tool for consulting AIRE centre and clients in finding funding. (ENG, .pdf) its clients 2025 - 2028 D4.2 Final report on WP4 TEHNOPOL R PU M36 The final report provides an overview of the support to find results of all WP4 activities and outlines total investments public (state, regional and EU) and private financing engaged by AIRE´s clients and key stakeholders (incl. consortium projects). (ENG, pdf) 52 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 Estimated budget — Resources Participant Costs (n/a for Lump Sum Grants) A. Personnel B. C.1 Travel C.2 C.3 Other D.1 Financial D.2 D.3 PAC E. Indirect Total Subcontra and Equipmen goods, support to third Internally procuremen costs costs cting subsistenc t works and parties invoiced t costs e services goods and (for PAC services Grants for Procurement) TALTECH 33,60 184 796 17 628 0 EUR 0 EUR 9 852 EUR 0 grants 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 14 859 227 135 person EUR EUR EUR EUR months UT 4,45 19 561 0 EUR 1 000 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 prizes 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 1 439 EUR 22 000 person EUR EUR EUR months EMU 0 person 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 prizes 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR months TEHNOPOL 13,91 83 824 0 EUR 649 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 prizes 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 5 913 EUR 90 386 person EUR EUR months TSP 0 person 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 prizes 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR months IMECC 0 person 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 prizes 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR months TLU 0 person 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 prizes 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR months Total 51,95 288 181 17 628 1 649 0 EUR 9 852 EUR 0 grants 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 22 212 339 521 person EUR EUR EUR 0 prizes EUR EUR months For Lump Sum Grants, see detailed budget table/calculator (annex 1 to Part B; see Portal Reference Documents). 53 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 Work Package 5 Work Package 5: Innovation Ecosystem and Networking Opportunities Duration: M1 – M36 Lead Beneficiary: TALTECH Objectives The aim is to strengthen ties with EU AI Ecosystem and develop opportunities for European level networking. Contacts with EU AI Infrastructure will be created and developed, processes for consulting clients on attending EU AI Infrastructure services will be provided. Activities and division of work (WP description) Task No Task Name Description Participants In-kind (continuous Contributions numbering and linked to Name Role Subcontracting WP) (COO, BEN, (Yes/No and AE, AP, which) OTHER) T5.1 Strategic coordination of AIRE EDIH Setting up and coordinating tasks 5.2, 5.3 and 5.4. Ensuring TALTECH COO Yes role in EU AI Ecosystem smooths service delivery. (Subcontracting) T5.2 Matchmaking with the SMEs The overall aim is to setting the scene for tasks 5.3 and 5.4. TALTECH COO No (including for the promotion of the AI Mapping EU AI Ecosystem opportunities and describing relevant TEHNOPOL BEN technologies made in Europe services, i.e. mapping EDIHs fields of activity and opportunities for AIRE clients. Identifying services and contacts to be offered to the clients. Negotiating with EDIHs on collaboration and establishing cross-border services. Identifying possible client segments and defining value added and impact for AIRE clients. Hosting EU AI ecosystem partners and clients in Estonia. KPI: 250 EDIH partners and clients consulted T5.3 Collaboration with EDIHs for cross- The aim is to establish opportunities and offer for cross-border TALTECH COO No border service delivery services – AIRE’s clients to other EDIHs’ services and vice versa. UT BEN Consulting clients about EDIHs opportunities (during other AIRE TEHNOPOL BEN services and stand-alone). Facilitating negotiations between TSP BEN clients and EDIHs including collaboration contract/deal. Negotiating with other EDIHs clients on AIRE's services. KPI: 42 clients consulted T5.4 Consulting SMEs on access to EU The aim is to enable AIRE’s clients to attend EU AI Infrastructure TALTECH COO No AI Ecosystem services. Mapping of EU AI infrastructure services and client UT BEN needs (starting with existing demo projects and AI/robotics 54 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 suitability assessment clients). Creating contacts with AI Infrastructure services providers and identifying collaboration opportunities. Consulting and matchmaking clients about EU AI Infrastructure opportunities. Assisting clients to sign collaboration agreement and enter into the service. This task is complementary to Tasks 2.1, 2.2, 3.1, covering all sectors) KPI: 36 clients consulted Milestones and deliverables (outputs/outcomes) Milestone No Milestone Name Work Lead Description Due Date Means of Verification (continuous numbering Package Beneficiary (month not linked to WP) No number) MS7 At least two AIRE services WP5 TALTECH At least two AIRE services are open for M12 Services are described are open for cross-border cross-border clients. and presented on AIRE collaboration homepage MS8 At least four collaborations WP5 TALTECH Established contacts with EU AI M12 Signed MoUs or other with EU AI Infrastructure Infrastructure services in order to offer similar agreements services are established services to AIRE clients. Deliverable No Deliverable Name Work Lead Type Dissemination Due Date Description (continuous numbering Package Beneficiary Level (month (including format and language) linked to WP) No number) D5.1 Final report of AIRE EDIH WP5 TALTECH R PU M36 Overview of WP5 results and integration into EU AI outcomes (i.e. which EU AI ecosystem Infrastructure was used, number of clients in cross-border services, etc). (ENG, .pdf) 55 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 Estimated budget — Resources Participant Costs (n/a for Lump Sum Grants) A. Personnel B. C.1 Travel C.2 C.3 Other D.1 Financial D.2 D.3 PAC E. Indirect Total Subcontra and Equipmen goods, support to third Internally procuremen costs costs cting subsistenc t works and parties invoiced t costs e services goods and (for PAC services Grants for Procurement) TALTECH 22,01 121 080 9 164 39 814 0 EUR 64 082 0 grants 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 16 390 250 530 person EUR EUR EUR EUR EUR EUR months UT 21,36 93 972 0 EUR 10 000 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 prizes 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 7 278 EUR 111 250 person EUR EUR EUR months EMU 0 person 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 prizes 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR months TEHNOPOL 5,48 33 000 0 EUR 17 841 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 prizes 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 3 559 EUR 54 400 person EUR EUR EUR months TSP 9 person 33 701 0 EUR 12 000 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 prizes 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 3 199 EUR 48 900 months EUR EUR EUR IMECC 0 person 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 prizes 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR months TLU 0 person 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 prizes 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR months Total 57,85 281 753 9 164 79 655 0 EUR 64 082 0 grants 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 30 426 465 079 person EUR EUR EUR EUR 0 prizes EUR EUR months For Lump Sum Grants, see detailed budget table/calculator (annex 1 to Part B; see Portal Reference Documents). 56 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 Work Package 6 Work Package 6: Dissemination, communication and exploitation of results Duration: M1 – M36 Lead Beneficiary: TALTECH Objectives Develop brand awareness of AIRE among target audiences as well as AI and robotics ecosystem on the level that emerges interest towards the value that AIRE creates in Estonia and Europe and makes them follow AIRE’s communication channels. To promote collaboration with other European EDIHs by offering companies the opportunity to access the services of EDIH centers in other European countries. To encourage and facilitate the use of know-how and services within the European AI ecosystem. Generate sufficient applications feed and participants to the AIRE services, trainings, initiatives, services, events, and AIRE Clubs. Task No Task Name Description Participants In-kind (continuous Contributions numbering and linked to Name Role (COO, BEN, Subcontracting WP) (Yes/No and AE, AP, which) OTHER) T6.1 Development of Designing a detailed plan for communication and dissemination (D6.1). TALTECH COO No Dissemination and UT BEN Communication Plan EMU BEN IMECC BEN TSP BEN TEHNOPOL BEN TLU BEN T6.2 Implementation of the Execution of activities according to the plan and project needs: campaign TALTECH COO Yes Dissemination and for call for ideas of AI demo projects; events, trainings and activities pre- UT BEN (subcontracting) Communication Plan and post-communication to provide visibility and participation according to EMU BEN the project KPIs; production and dissemination of videos, posters and IMECC BEN banners about demo projects (linked to T6.3), best practices, services and TSP BEN events. TEHNOPOL BEN TLU BEN T6.3 Updating the aire-edih.eu The aire-edih.eu website will be updated with the new content: several new TALTECH COO Yes website. Content to be services available, shift in focus target groups, etc. There will be new UT BEN (subcontracting) included: updated services, formats of telling the success stories. AIRE networking events will be EMU BEN renewed focus, target groups attractively displayed. A technical development of the new displays and IMECC BEN and formats of telling the functionalities will be produced with the chosen partner. EU AI TSP BEN success-stories. General UX technologies in focus. TEHNOPOL BEN audit and refreshments. TLU BEN 57 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 T6.4 Client relationship Already existing AIRE’s CRM will be updated regarding EDIH2 principles. TALTECH COO No management (Service and The system consists of: automated service and client management system UT BEN CRM management) for the project, service and customer management in CRM; client-oriented EMU BEN customer journey with client and target group-centric principles; analytics- IMECC BEN driven feedback loop for service and delivery improvement regionally and TSP BEN technically. The client journey will be improved to target EU-level service TEHNOPOL BEN TLU BEN reach, EU AI technology uptake and cross-border service delivery. T6.5 Organisation of AIRE Clubs The main networking format for the AIRE centre is AIRE Clubs. There will TALTECH COO Yes be several AIRE Clubs run by AIRE consortium partners in different UT BEN (subcontracting) locations in Estonia and in Europe and in co-operation with other EDIHs. EMU BEN The main KPI is to gather the expected number of participants and initiate IMECC BEN impactful new co-operations, development and investment decisions. TSP BEN TEHNOPOL BEN TLU BEN Milestones and deliverables (outputs/outcomes) Mileston Milestone Name Work Lead Description Due Date Means of Verification e No Package Beneficiary (month No number) MS9 AIRE's new services have WP6 TALTECH AIRE’s existing services description has been M12 Screenshot from AIRE’s been described and featured adjusted to 2025-2028 target group and published webpage across communication on webpage. AIRE’s new services for 2025-2028 channels have been described and published on webpage. MS10 Outreach to new target groups WP6 TALTECH The new target groups have been analysed, and M18 Extract from AIRE CRM has been achieved to the appropriate channels for reaching them have been extent of 50% identified. AIRE’s services have been introduced to 50% of these new target groups. Deliverab Deliverable Name Work Lead Type Dissemination Due Date Description le No Package Beneficiary Level (month number) (including format and language) No D6.1 Communication and WP6 TALTECH R PU M3 Communication and Dissemination Plan including Dissemination Plan activities, communication frequency, channels, target groups, events (ENG, .pdf) D6.3 Report on the communication WP6 TALTECH R PU M18 Report presenting activities, channels, target and dissemination activities groups, messages, events (ENG, .pdf) carried out 58 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 Estimated budget — Resources Participant Costs (n/a for Lump Sum Grants) A. Personnel B. C.1 Travel C.2 C.3 Other D.1 Financial D.2 D.3 PAC E. Indirect Total Subcontra and Equipmen goods, support to third Internally procuremen costs costs cting subsistenc t works and parties invoiced t costs e services goods and (for PAC services Grants for Procurement) TALTECH 95,94 527 671 106 575 11 314 0 EUR 91 599 0 grants 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 51 601 788 760 person EUR EUR EUR EUR EUR EUR months UT 23.98 105 516 10 000 6 000 0 EUR 74 000 0 prizes 0 EUR 3 000 EUR 0 EUR 13 896 212 412 person EUR EUR EUR EUR EUR EUR months EMU 1,83 6 578 0 EUR 1 644 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 prizes 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 576 EUR 8 798 person EUR EUR EUR months TEHNOPOL 2,07 12 500 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 6 000 EUR 0 prizes 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 1 295 EUR 19 794 person EUR EUR months TSP 5,40 12 499 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 6 000 EUR 0 prizes 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 1 295 EUR 19 794 person EUR EUR months IMECC 0 person 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 prizes 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR months TLU 2 person 8 222 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 prizes 0 EUR 0 EUR 0 EUR 576 EUR 8 798 months EUR EUR Total 131,22 672 986 116 575 18 958 0 EUR 177 599 0 grants 0 EUR 3 000 EUR 0 EUR 69 238 1 058 356 person EUR EUR EUR EUR 0 prizes EUR EUR months For Lump Sum Grants, see detailed budget table/calculator (annex 1 to Part B; see Portal Reference Documents). 59 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 Staff effort (n/a for Lump Sum Grants) Staff effort per work package Fill in the summary on work package information and effort per work package. Work Work Package Title Lead Lead Participant Start Month End Month Person-Months Package Participant Short Name No No 1 Project management and coordination 1 TALTECH M1 M36 124,84 2 Test before invest 1 TALTECH M1 M36 327,59 3 Training and skill development 2 UT M1 M36 147,57 4 Support to find investments 4 TEHNOPOL M1 M36 51,95 5 Innovation ecosystem and networking opportunities 1 TALTECH M1 M36 57,85 6 Dissemination, Communication and Exploitation of 1 M1 M36 Results TALTECH 131,22 Total Person- Months 841,03 Staff effort per participant Fill in the effort per work package and Beneficiary/Affiliated Entity. Please indicate the number of person/months over the whole duration of the planned work. Identify the work-package leader for each work package by showing the relevant person/month figure in bold. Participant WP 1 WP 2 WP 3 WP 4 WP 5 WP 6 Total Person-Months TALTECH 61,65 92,93 51,43 33,60 22,01 95,94 357,56 UT 23,72 74,79 61,30 4,45 21,36 23,98 209,60 EMU 11,60 33,93 5,74 0 0 1,83 53,1 TEHNOPOL 6,26 39,84 3,60 13,91 5,48 2,07 71,16 TSP 10,80 61,20 3,60 0 9,00 5,40 90,00 IMECC 7,20 15,90 16,90 0 0 0 40,00 TLU 3,6 9 5 0 0 2 19,6 Total Person-Months 124,84 327,59 147,57 51,95 57,85 131,22 841,03 60 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 Subcontracting (n/a for prefixed Lump Sum Grants) Subcontracting Give details on subcontracted project tasks (if any) and explain the reasons why (as opposed to direct implementation by the Beneficiaries/Affiliated Entities). Subcontracting — Subcontracting means the implementation of ‘action tasks’, i.e. specific tasks which are part of the EU grant and are described in Annex 1 of the Grant Agreement. Note: Subcontracting concerns the outsourcing of a part of the project to a party outside the consortium. It is not simply about purchasing goods or services. We normally expect that the participants have sufficient operational capacity to implement the project activities themselves. Subcontracting should therefore be exceptional. Include only subcontracts that comply with the rules (i.e. best value for money and no conflict of interest; no subcontracting of coordinator tasks). Work Subcontract Subcontract Description Estimated Justification Best-Value-for-Money Package No Name (including task number and Costs (Why is subcontracting necessary?) (How do you intend to ensure it?) No (continuous (subcontracted BEN/AE to which it is linked) (EUR) numbering action tasks) linked to WP) WP1 S1.1 Task: T1.1 All subcontracting related 14 872 To include expertise that is not available Open and transparent selection to WP1 (external experts, internally (e.g. legal advice) (state tendering rules applied) with legal advice) quality criteria and methodology. WP2 S2.1 Task: T2.1; T2.2 All subcontracting related 52 535 To include expertise that is not available Open and transparent selection to WP2 (AI advice) internally (e.g. AI expertise to provide AI (state tendering rules applied) with assessments and evaluate demo projects) quality criteria and methodology. WP3 S3.1 Task: T3.1; T3.3; All subcontracting related 24 928 To include expertise that is not available Open and transparent selection T3.4 to WP3 (external experts, internally (e.g. AI experts for AI roadmaps (state tendering rules applied) with trainers) or other specific technological expertise, quality criteria and methodology. trainings and webinars) WP4 S4.1 Task: T4.4 All subcontracting related 17 628 To include expertise that is not available Open and transparent selection to WP4 (expertise related internally (e.g. identify and map EU funding (state tendering rules applied) with to EU funding measures) and programmes opportunities) quality criteria and methodology. WP5 S5.1 Task: 5.1 All subcontracting related 9 164 To include expertise that is not available Open and transparent selection to WP5 (activities related internally (e.g. organising events/ meetings (state tendering rules applied) with to collaboration with other (i.e. catering) with other EDIHs) quality criteria and methodology. EDIHs) WP6 S6.1 Task: T6.2; T6.3, All subcontracting related 116 575 To include expertise that is not available Open and transparent selection T6.5 to WP6 (Dissemination, internally (e.g. graphic designer, videos, (state tendering rules applied) with communication and writing articles, organising AIRE Clubs) quality criteria and methodology. design) Other issues: Not applicable If subcontracting for the entire project goes beyond 30% of the total eligible costs, give specific reasons. 61 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 Purchases and equipment Purchase costs (travel and subsistence, equipment and other goods works and services) Details for major cost items (needed if costs declared under ‘purchase costs’ are higher than 15% of the claimed personnel costs). Start with the most expensive cost items, down to the 15% threshold. Participant 1: TALTECH Cost item name Category WP(s) Explanations Costs (EUR) Travel & subsistence Travel and WP5, WP6 Summarized travel costs to bilateral meetings with EDIHs, 51 128 Subsistence participate in EDIH network (i.e. ADRA) events, attend target group events to promote AIRE services Other goods and services Other goods and WP5, WP6 Organising events and meetings with other EDIHs and EU AI 155 681 services ecosystem parties. Summarized costs on dissemination and communication (e.g. marketing services, AIRE clubs, videos, graphic design, writing articles, demo areas for participating in conferences to promote AIRE services) Total EUR 206 089 Participant 2: UT Cost item name Category WP(s) Explanations Costs (EUR) Other goods and services Other goods and WP6 Costs on dissemination and communication (e.g. AIRE clubs, 74 000 services marketing services, participating in conferences to promote AIRE services) Total EUR 74 000 Participant 3: EMU Cost item name Category WP(s) Explanations Costs (EUR) Travel & subsistence Travel and WP3, WP6 Summarized travel costs related to client visits in Task 3.1. 4 644 Subsistence Costs on dissemination and communication (e.g. AIRE clubs, marketing services, participating in conferences to promote AIRE services) Other goods and services Other goods and WP3 Organising trainings and webinars. 4 500 services Total EUR 9 144 62 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 Participant 4: TEHNOPOL Cost item name Category WP(s) Explanations Costs (EUR) Travel & subsistence Travel and WP5 Summarized travel costs to bilateral meetings with EDIHs, 17 841 Subsistence participate in EDIH network (i.e. ADRA) events, attend target group events to promote AIRE services Other goods and services Other goods and WP6 Organising AIRE Clubs. 6 000 services Total EUR 23 841 Participant 5: TSP Cost item name Category WP(s) Explanations Costs (EUR) Travel & subsistence Travel and WP5 Summarized travel costs to bilateral meetings with EDIHs, 12 000 Subsistence participate in EDIH network (i.e. ADRA) events, attend target group events to promote AIRE services Other goods and services Other goods and WP6 Organising AIRE Clubs. 6 000 services Total EUR 18 000 Total purchase costs EUR > 15% (all participants) 337 794 Remaining purchase costs EUR < 15% (all participants) 200 199 Total purchase costs EUR (all participants) 537 993 Equipment with full-cost option For calls where full-capitalised costs are exceptionally eligible for listed equipment (see Call document), indicate below the equipment items for which you request the full- cost option, and justify your request. Ensure consistency with the budget details provided in the previous table. Equipment Name Description Estimated Costs Justification Best-Value-for-Money (including WP, task number and BEN/AE to which it is (EUR) (why is reimbursement at full cost (how do you intend to linked) needed?) ensure it?) Not applicable Not applicable Not applicable Not applicable Not applicable 63 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 Other cost categories Other cost categories (financial support to third parties, internally invoiced goods and services, etc) Complete the table below for each participant that would like to declare costs under other costs categories (e.g. financial support and internally invoiced goods and services), irrespective of the percentage of personnel costs. Participant 1: UT Cost category Explanations Costs (EUR) Internally invoiced goods and Various internal university services, such as use of laboratory equipment, printing of promotional 8 000 services material, use of HPC service, rental of other facilities, etc. Timetable Timetable (projects of more than 2 years) Fill in cells in beige to show the duration of activities. Repeat lines/columns as necessary. Note: Use actual calendar years and quarters. In the timeline you should indicate the timing of each activity per WP. You may add additional columns if your project is longer than 6 years. YEAR 1 YEAR 2 YEAR 3 ACTIVITY Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 T1.1 Strategic management T1.2 Organisation of the Advisory Board for test before invest (industry involvement) T1.3 Steering Group (SG) meetings (internal management) T1.4 Progress and impact monitoring T1.5 Participation in DTA activities and collaboration T2.1 AI suitability analysis T2.2 Test before invest AI demo projects (incl. EU AI Infrastructure, HPC, TEF etc) T2.3 Integration of AIRE results with EU AI ecosystem (i.e. AI on-demand platform) T3.1 First-line AI helpdesk on AI innovation T3.2 Analysis of needs and the skills development plan 64 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 T3.3 Organisation of trainings T3.4 Webinars to SMEs for AI skills T3.5 AI Act awareness & Toolbox T4.1 Funding roadmap development T4.2 Consulting on access to funding (public funding) T4.3 Consulting on access to funding (private funding) T4.4 Preparation and submission of funding proposals for EU collaboration of EDIHs etc T5.1 Strategic coordination of AIRE EDIH role in EU AI Ecosystem T5.2 Matchmaking with the SMEs (including for the promotion of the AI technologies made in Europe T5.3 Collaboration with EDIHs for cross-border service delivery T5.4 Consulting SMEs on access to EU AI Ecosystem T6.1 Development of Dissemination and Communication Plan T6.2 Implementation of the Dissemination and Communication Plan T6.3 Updating aire-edih.eu website. All relating content to be updated T6.4 Client relationship management T6.5 Organisation of AIRE Clubs #§WRK-PLA-WP§# 65 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 #@ETH-ICS-EI@# 5. OTHER 5.1 Ethics Ethics If the Call document contains a section on ethics, the ethics issues and measures you intend to take to solve/avoid them must be described in Part A. See Application Form Part A. #§ETH-ICS-EI§# #@SEC-URI-SU@# 5.2 Security Security The security issues and the measures you intend to take to solve/avoid them must be described in Part A. Note: Beneficiaries must ensure that their projects are not subject to national/third country security requirements that could affect the implementation or put into question the award of the grant (e.g. technology restrictions, national security classification, etc). Not Applicable #§SEC-URI-SU§# #@DEC-LAR-DL@# 6. DECLARATIONS Double funding Information concerning other EU grants Please note that there is a strict prohibition of double funding from the EU budget (except YES/NO under EU Synergies actions). We confirm that to our best knowledge none of the projects under the action plan as a whole or YES in parts have benefitted from any other EU grant (including EU funding managed by authorities in EU Member States or other funding bodies, e.g. EU Regional Funds, EU Agricultural Funds, etc). If NO, explain and provide details. We confirm that to our best knowledge none of the projects under the action plan as a whole or YES in parts are (nor will be) submitted for any other EU grant (including EU funding managed by authorities in EU Member States or other funding bodies, e.g. EU Regional Funds, EU Agricultural Funds, etc). If NO, explain and provide details. Financial support to third parties (if applicable) If in your project the maximum amount per third party will be more than the threshold amount set in the Call document, justify and explain why the higher amount is necessary in order to fulfil your project’s objectives. Not applicable #§DEC-LAR-DL§# 66 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 ANNEXES LIST OF ANNEXES Standard Detailed budget table/Calculator (annex 1 to Part B) — mandatory for certain Lump Sum Grants (see Portal Reference Documents) CVs (annex 2 to Part B) — not applicable Annual activity reports (annex 3 to Part B) — not applicable List of previous projects (annex 4 to Part B) — mandatory, if required in the Call document Special Other annexes (annex 5 to Part B) — mandatory, if required in the Call document The following Annexes are added to the Application: Annex Heading Format of the Annex Annex 1 Detailed budget Inserted into the Participant Portal Annex 4 List of Previous Projects Added as separate file Annex 5 List of Services and Prices Added as separate file Annex 6 List of KPIs and targets Added as separate file Annex 7 List of Memorandums of Understanding (MoU) and Letters of Added as separate file Intent (LoI) for collaboration with EDIH network, Signed MoUs and LoIs Letter of designation by the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Added as separate file Communications of Estonia (added as separate file 67 Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] EU Grants: Application form (DEP): V2.0 – 01.06.2022.0 – 01.06.2022 LIST OF PREVIOUS PROJECTS List of previous projects Please provide a list of your previous projects for the last 4 years. Participant Project Reference No Period (start Role Amount Website (if any) and Title, Funding and end date) (COO, (EUR) programme BEN, AE, OTHER) See Annex 4 HISTORY OF CHANGES PUBLICATION VERSION CHANGE DATE 1.0 01.11.2021 Initial version (new MFF). 2.0 01.06.2022 Consolidation, formatting and layout changes. Tags added. 68 Annex 4: List of previous projects (Period 2021 – 2024) AI & ROBOTICS ESTONIA 2.0 (EDIH) Participant Project Reference No and Period (start and Role (COO, BEN, Amount Website (if any) Title, Funding programme end date) AE, OTHER) (EUR) TALTECH 101083677 AIRE 01.07.2022 - COO Project total KAVA https://aire-edih.eu/ UT 31.08.2025 BEN 6 000 000 € EMU „AI and Robotics Estonia BEN TSP (EDIH)“ BEN Tehnopol BEN IMECC Digital Europe Programme BEN (DIGITAL); Republic of Estonia Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communications Tartu Science Park, European Space Agency 08.2017 – 08.2023 COO Total investment 1 175 000 EUR, https://www.esabic.ee/ UT, Business Incubation Centre BEN incl funding from European Space Tehnopol , (ESA BIC) - ESA BIC Estonia BEN Agency and consortium partners TALTECH, Consortium BEN (only direct funding for startups and Tartu City BEN events) Government, BEN Tallinn City Government and others Tartu Science Park, European Space Agency 09.2023 – 08.2026 COO Total investment 1 380 000 EUR, https://www.esabic.ee/ UT, Business Incubation Centre BEN incl funding from European Space Tehnopol , (ESA BIC) - ESA BIC Estonia BEN Agency and consortium partners TALTECH, Consortium BEN (only direct funding for startups and Tartu City BEN events) Government, BEN Tallinn City Government and others Tartu Science Park, Enterprise Europe 01.2022 – 06.2025 BEN EEN Estonia budget https://enterprise-europe.ee/ Tehnopol, Network BEN 1 021 693 € Estonian Chamber of COO Commerce and EEN ESTONIA EU investment 613 000 € Industry (#101052754, funded by SMP - Single Market Program) Tehnopol NATO Diana Estonia 2024 2025 COO The implementation of the https://www.diana.nato.int/ Tartu Science Park BEN accelerator in Estonia is funded Contributing to the yearly by the Ministry of Economic network of testing Affairs and Communications, with centers across the support from the Ministry of Foreign Alliance are: Affairs, the Ministry of Defence, and TALTECH, the city of Tallinn. UT CR14, the Estonian National Defence College, Estonian Academy of Security Sciences Estonian Aviation Academy. Tartu Science Park, CIRC-2-Zero 03.2025 – 02.2028 BEN 3 296 687 € circ-2-zero Häme University of COO Applied Sciences, BEN Linna Business Interreg Baltic Sea Region BEN Development, BEN Krakow Technology BEN Park, BEN K8 Institute for BEN Strategic Aesthetics, BEN Academy of Fine Arts BEN Saar, BEN Riga Technical university, Luleå university of technology, VMG Lignum Systems, VIZULO, Industrial Development Center North AB, Ventspils High Technology Park Tartu Science Park, HORIZON-WIDERA-2024- 09.2025 – 08.2028 BEN 2 974 196 € N/A TALTECH, TALENTS-03 BEN EIT Digital Hungary, ROBO-KNOT COO AI Data end Robotics nr 101216484 BEN Association, BEN Cofa Vooperativa de BEN Fomacocao e BEN Animacao Cultural BEN CRL, BEN Institut Josef Stefan, BEN Aristotle Uni fo BEN Thessaloniki, PACT Parque, OZZIE Robotics, ROBOTNIK AUTOMATION SL, CTAG UT 101235377 01.11.2025 - BEN Project total KAVA APOLLO-V 31.10.2029 6 895 406,51 € (proposal submitted) „Advanced Photovoltaic Onboard Lightweight and LOw-Emission Vehicles“ Horizon Europe UT 101189836 01.01.2025 - COO Project total KAVA https://www.xscave.eu/ XSCAVE 31.12.2028 7 975 530 € “Explainable, Safe, Contact- Aware Planning and Control for Heavy Machinery Manipulation and Navigation” Horizon Europe UT 2021-2027.4.04.23-0002 01.01.2024 - BEN Project total KAVA https://harno.ee/inseneriakadee TALTECH 31.12.2026 BEN 20 051 116 € mia “Engineering Academy” Inseneriakadeemia ja IT Akadeemia kõrghariduses UT 2021-2027.1.01.23-0350 01.05.2024 - COO Project total KAVA https://www.etis.ee/Portal/Projec 30.04.2026 144 000 € ts/Display/8bcbae19-eeee-46b7- MOB3JD1221 96b3-fcef9c820676 „Soft Robotic Scope for Minimally Invasive Surgery Procedures“ Mobilitas 3.0 UT 300000108 01.01.2025 - BEN Project total KAVA AI-Decision 31.12.2025 233 030,90 € „AI-Decision for flexible and efficient manufacturing“ Horizon Europe, EIT Manufacturing UT 23361 01.01.2023 - BEN Project total KAVA https://www.eitmanufacturing.eu/ M-Master 31.12.2025 4 139 964 € what-we-do/education/master- school/ „EIT Labelled Mater Programme“ Horizon Europe, EIT Manufacturing UT 23362 01.01.2023 - BEN Project total KAVA https://www.eitmanufacturing.eu/ DSL 31.12.2025 1 422 504 € what-we- do/education/education- „EIT labelled PhD“ programmes/empower- programme/doctoral-school/ Horizon Europe, EIT Manufacturing UT 24238 01.01.2024 - BEN Project total KAVA https://www.eitmanufacturing.eu/ InnovatED 31.12.2024 259 982 € what-we- do/education/education- „INNOVATive EDucational programmes/empower- program for doctoral school“ programme/doctoral-school/ Horizon Europe, EIT Manufacturing UT 23008 01.01.2023 - BEN Project total KAVA https://stradawomen.eu/ STRADA 31.12.2023 327 492 € „Supporting Training and Networking of Women in Manufacturing“ Horizon Europe, EIT Manufacturing UT 23060 01.01.2023 - BEN Project total KAVA CompetenSEE 31.12.2023 197 127 € https://www.eitmanufacturing.eu/ news- „Hybrid training course for events/activities/competensee/ promoting competence development in manufacturing in South-East Europe“ Horizon Europe, EIT Manufacturing UT 23059 01.01.2023 - COO Project total KAVA OPEN-TeaLeaF 31.12.2023 234 781 € https://www.eitmanufacturing.eu/ news-events/activities/open- „Open and Portable tealeaf-project/ Education uNits as TEAching and LEArning Factories“ Horizon Europe, EIT Manufacturing UT 22235, 23517 01.01.2022 - COO Project total KAVA year 2022: RIEMANN 31.12.2023 249 693 € + 249 385 € https://www.eitmanufacturing.eu/ wp- ROS-based Education of content/uploads/2022/11/EDU20 Advanced Motion Planning 22_RIEMAN.pdf and Control year 2023: Horison Europe, EIT https://www.eitmanufacturing.eu/ Manufacturing news-events/activities/riemann- project/ UT 22128; 23091 01.01.2022 - BEN Project total KAVA https://www.eitmanufacturing.eu/ TURING 31.12.2023 250 000 € + 300 000 € what-we- do/education/education- (flexy enhance) EITM digiTal programmes/empower- Upskilling and ReskIlliNG programme/enhance-flexy- programme programme/eit-labelled- fellowship/ Horizon Europe, EIT Manufacturing https://www.eitmanufacturing.eu/ news-events/activities/turing- programme/ UT 22071 01.01.2022 - BEN Project total KAVA https://www.eitmanufacturing.eu/ ConnectSEE 31.12.2022 299 504 € wp- content/uploads/2022/11/RIS202 Connecting Learning 2_ConnectSEE.pdf Factories for Promoting Manufacturing Education in South-East Europe Horizon Europe, EIT Manufacturing UT 22029 01.01.2022 - BEN Project total KAVA https://www.eitmanufacturing.eu/ ROS4DEV 31.12.2022 243 730 € wp- content/uploads/2022/11/EDU20 „Flexible learning for ROS 22_ROS4DEV.pdf developers“ Horizon Europe, EIT Manufacturing UT 22107 01.01.2022 - BEN Project total KAVA https://demo4green.eu/ Demo4Green 31.12.2022 379 922 € „Green Manufacturing: Demonstrating technologies to fight Climate Change“ UT 2021-2027.1.01.24-0769 01.01.2025 - COO Project total KAVA INNOINSENER 31.12.2026 70 072,80 € „Integration of high-tech innovation in engineering studies at the University of Tartu“ Sektorite vaheline mobiilsus SEKMO (Tippspetsialistid) UT 2021-2027.1.01.24-0674 01.10.2024 - COO Project total KAVA https://tuit.ut.ee/et/uudis/elektroo ELEKTROONIK 30.09.2026 70 072,80 € nika-tippspetsialisti- integreerimine-tartu-ulikooli- „Integrating a top specialist tehnikahariduse-oppesse in electronics into technical education at the University of Tartu“ Sektorite vaheline mobiilsus SEKMO (Tippspetsialistid) UT 2021-2027.1.01.24-0530 01.08.2024 - COO Project total KAVA https://tuit.ut.ee/et/sisu/insenerio MULTIINSENER 31.07.2026 140 145,60 € skuste-ja-innovatiivse- tehnoloogia-integreerimine- „Integration of engineering oppesse skills and innovative technology into studies at the University of Tartu“ Sektorite vaheline mobiilsus SEKMO (Tippspetsialistid) UT Artificial Intelligence for 01.09.2024 - COO 458 460,00 € Smart Automation 31.08.2028 TEM-TA101, 2021- 2027.1.01.24-0627 UT, Estonian Centre of 01.01.2024 - COO 3 848 666,76 € https://www.etis.ee/Portal/Projec TALTECH, Excellence in Artificial 31.12.2030 ts/Display/10dbbcb3-e392-4f72- Cybernetica AS Intelligence 9791-5f2306f88851 TK213 Academisch AI for Healthcare 01.06.2023 - BEN 139 312,00 € Ziekenhuis Professionals 31.12.2025 Groningen, OneVision 230192 Healthcare, UT UT National Competence 01.01.2023 - COO 1 422 199,06 € https://www.etis.ee/Portal/Projec Centres in the framework of 31.12.2025 ts/Display/c55d4a20-d241-415f- EuroHPC Phase 2 900a-995305ba32cc 101101903 UT, LUMI AI Factory - Service 01.03.2025 - BEN 218 750,00 € https://www.etis.ee/Portal/Projec CSC-Tieteen Center 29.02.2028 ts/Display/1844a4b4-94f2-4c0d- tietotekniikan keskus 86b7-844bb7851ba5 Oy, 101234208 Aalto- korkeakoulusäätiö sr, Teknologiateollisuus - Teknologiindustrin ry, Helsingin yliopisto, VSB - Technical University of Ostrava, Danmarks Tekniske Universitet, SIGMA2 AS, Akademia Gorniczo- Hutnicza im. Stanislawa Staszica w Krakowie UT, Fortissimo Plus 01.01.2025 - BEN 70 000,00 € https://www.etis.ee/Portal/Projec Better Medicine, 31.10.2025 ts/Display/8c3be14a-b638-48e1- Pärnu Hospital 95b9-cda0abff6906 UT, Coordination and Support for 01.01.2023 - BEN 180 000,00 € https://www.etis.ee/Portal/Projec University of National Competence 31.12.2025 ts/Display/706453af-867a-4f15- Stuttgart, Centres and Centres of b59a-aa65fabd22d6 scapos AG, Excellence on a European Cineca Consorzio Level Phase 2 (CASTIEL 2) Interuniversitario, Barcelona 101102047 Supercomputing Center - Centro Nacional de Supercomputación Teratec, Partnership for Advanced Computing in Europe AISBL, Technischen Universität Wien UT Big data and machine 01.01.2024 - COO 606 444,00 € https://www.etis.ee/Portal/Projec learning applications: 31.12.2028 ts/Display/082204dc-0f47-480a- developing a research 9d20-d40fc97b4fb5 direction ÕÜF6_ATI; 2021- 2027.6.01.23-0034 TALTECH 101058505 01.06.2022 – COO 1 409 188,76 € https://www.5g-timber.eu/ 31.10.2025 Horizon Europe – Innovation Action: 5G-Enabled Twin Transition for the Timber Industry (Detection of blockages with cameras and anomalies in the behavior of 5G modems) TALTECH 101160182 01.09.2024 – COO 1 700 000.00 € https://taichip.taltech.ee/ 1.08.2027 HORIZON-WIDERA-2023- ACCESS-02 TAICHIP: Boosting TalTech Capacity in Reliable and Efficient AI-Chip Design TALTECH Explainable Machine 01.04.2022 – COO 165 000.00 € N/A Learning for Human-Assisted 01.04.2025 Classification of Freshwater Fish Biodiversity in Fishways TALTECH Software development for 26.08.2021 – COO 150 000.00 € N/A the automatic identification of 26.08.2024 fish in underwater videos from fishways TALTECH ERASMUS+ PROGRAMME. 28.02.2022 – BEN 50 112.00 € N/A STRATEGIC 27.02.2025 PARTNERSHIPS (KEY ACTION 2) TSAAI: Transversal Skills in Applied Artificial Intelligence TALTECH H2020 Work Programme 01.02.2022 – BEN 476 250.00 € https://cordis.europa.eu/project/i ILIAD: 31.07.2025 d/101037643 INTEGRATED DigitaL Framework FOR Comprehensive MARITIME DATA AND INFORMATION SERVICES TALTECH HORIZON-MSCA-2023-DN- 01.09.2024 – BEN 477 014.00 € https://tiramisu-project.eu/ 01 31.08.2028 101169378 TIRAMISU: Training and Innovation in Reliable and Efficient Chip Design for Edge AI TALTECH DIGITAL-2023-CLOUD- 01.05.2024 – BEN 249 888.00 € N/A DATA-04-DIGIPASS 30.04.2027 CIRPASS-2 Digital Product Passports Enabling At-Scale and Real- Life Circular Economy Use Cases in electronics, textiles, tires and construction value chains University of Life EAG304 01.11.2023– BEN/ 150 000 € https://mi.emu.ee/agrorobootika- Sciences Autonomous movable power 31.10.2024 COO tooruhm station University of Life PM210001TIBT 01.01.2021– BEN/ 392 000 € https://mi.emu.ee/agrorobootika- Sciences Development of precision 31.12.2024 COO tooruhm fertilization technology for cultivated berries Tallinn University AI-Mind: Intelligent digital 01.03.2021– BEN 443 125 € https://www.etis.ee/Portal/Projec tools for screening of 28.02.2026 ts/Display/d310b069-9953-485d- brainconnectivity and abb3-a99c6bdd3a90 dementia risk estimation in people affected by mild cognitive impairment Tallinn University Malicious actors profiling and 01.01.2023– BEN 99 935 € https://www.etis.ee/Portal/Projec detection in Online Social 31.12.2025 ts/Display/bb96e37b-7f3e-4379- Networks through Artificial b63b-83355d29c511 Intelligence Tallinn University Factors influencing trust in 01.11.2021– BEN 161 041 € https://www.etis.ee/Portal/Projec technology 30.04.2025 ts/Display/f5222c20-09d6-4101- b102-22465658a45e Tallinn University Cultural Data Analytics 01.01.2019– BEN/COO 2 500 000 € https://www.etis.ee/Portal/Projec (CUDAN) 31.08.2024 ts/Display/bf5dc583-824b-4996- a1b7-5641c18ef2cb & https://cudan.tlu.ee/ Annex 5 List of Services and prices. Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] AI & ROBOTICS ESTONIA 2.0 (EDIH) Nominal Price remaining to Service title & description Service category Target Client Type of services price - fixed State aid Unit of measure be paid by client T2.1 AI Suitability assessment Test before invest Primary target group (see section 1.1) individual 7500 4125 €/per service 0 T2.2 Test before invest AI demo projects Test before invest Primary target group (see section 1.1) individual 90000 49500 €/per service 0 T3.1 First-line AI helpdesk on AI innovation Training and skill development Primary target group (see section 1.1) individual 1600 880 €/client-day 0 T3.3 Organization of trainings for AI skills Training and skill development Primary target group (see section 1.1) collective 1400 770 €/trainee participant (SME-s) 0 T3.4 Organization of webinars Training and skill development Primary target group (see section 1.1) collective 200 110 €/webinar participant (SME-s) 0 T3.5 AI Act awareness & Toolbox Training and skill development Primary target group (see section 1.1) individual 1600 880 €/client-day 0 T4.2 Consulting on access to Public funding Support to find investments Primary target group (see section 1.1) individual 1600 880 €/per service 0 T4.3 Consulting on access to Private funding Support to find investments Primary target group (see section 1.1) individual 1600 880 €/per service 0 Innovation ecosystem and networking T5.2 Match-making with SMEs opportunities Primary target group (see section 1.1) individual 100 55 €/match with EDIH partner and client 0 1)€/ per service: Estonian clients receiving services from other EDIHs Innovation ecosystem and networking 2) €/ per service: foreign clients registering T5.3 Collaboration with EDIHs for cross-border service delivery opportunities Primary target group (see section 1.1) individual 5000 2750 to AIRE EDIH services 0 Innovation ecosystem and networking T5.4 Consulting SMEs on access to EU AI Ecosystem opportunities Primary target group (see section 1.1) individual 5000 2750 €/per service 0 Dissemination, communication and exploitation T6.5 AIRE club events of results Primary target group (see section 1.1) events 200 110 €/per participant 0 Annex 6 List of KPIs and Targets Call: [DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-CONSOLIDATION-EU-EEA-08-STEP — Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)] AI & ROBOTICS ESTONIA 2.0 (EDIH) Type of Target Target Target KPI title and description Type of KPI Reference to description in Part B Category Targeted clients services Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Total Target 2.1 AI suitability assessment output KPI 4.2 Work packages, activities, resources and timing Test before invest Primary target group (see section 1.1) individual 26 52 52 130 2.2 Test before invest AI demoproject output KPI 4.2 Work packages, activities, resources and timing Test before invest Primary target group (see section 1.1) individual 5 10 10 25 3.1 First-line AI helpdesk on AI innovation output KPI 4.2 Work packages, activities, resources and timing Training and skill development Primary target group (see section 1.1) individual 97 195 194 486* 3.3 Trainings output KPI 4.2 Work packages, activities, resources and timing Training and skill development Primary target group (see section 1.1) collective 26 52 52 130** 3.4 Webinars output KPI 4.2 Work packages, activities, resources and timing Training and skill development Primary target group (see section 1.1) collective 52 104 104 260** 3.5 Consultation on AI Act awareness output KPI 4.2 Work packages, activities, resources and timing Training and skill development Primary target group (see section 1.1) individual 28 56 56 140* 4.2 Consulting on access to funding (public measures) output KPI 4.2 Work packages, activities, resources and timing Support to find investments Primary target group (see section 1.1) individual 40 80 80 200* 4.3 Consulting on access to funding (private funding) output KPI 4.2 Work packages, activities, resources and timing Support to find investments Primary target group (see section 1.1) individual 10 20 20 50* 5.2 Matchmaking with the SMEs (including for the promotion of the AI technologies made in Europe) output KPI 4.2 Work packages, activities, resources and timing Innovation ecosystem and networking opportunities Primary target group (see section 1.1) individual 50 100 100 250 5.3 Collaboration with EDIHs for cross-border service delivery output KPI 4.2 Work packages, activities, resources and timing Innovation ecosystem and networking opportunities Primary target group (see section 1.1) individual 8 17 17 42 5.4 Consulting SMEs on access to EU AI Ecosystem output KPI 4.2 Work packages, activities, resources and timing Innovation ecosystem and networking opportunities Primary target group (see section 1.1) individual 7 14 15 36 6.5 Organisation of AIRE Clubs output KPI 4.2 Work packages, activities, resources and timing Dissemination, communication and exploitation of results Primary target group (see section 1.1) events 179 358 358 895 KPI1 Number of clients in AIRE services outcome KPI 3.1 Expected outcomes and deliverables NA Primary target group (see section 1.1) NA 50 100 100 250 KPI2 Number of clients using EU AI infrastructure outcome KPI 3.1 Expected outcomes and deliverables NA Primary target group (see section 1.1) NA 7 14 15 36 KPI3 Amount of additional investments successfully triggered outcome KPI 3.1 Expected outcomes and deliverables NA Primary target group (see section 1.1) NA 20 35 45 100 KPI4 Number of collaboration with EDIHs outcome KPI 3.1 Expected outcomes and deliverables NA Primary target group (see section 1.1) NA 8 16 16 40 KPI5 Increase in digital maturity of AIRE clients impact KPI 3.1 Expected outcomes and deliverables NA Primary target group (see section 1.1) NA 0 7 8 15 KPI6 Number of clients using EU AI technologies impact KPI 3.1 Expected outcomes and deliverables NA Primary target group (see section 1.1) NA 0 40 60 100 * number of client days (8 hours) ** number of participants Annex 7: List of Memorandum of Understandings and Letters of Intent signed by AI & Robotics Estonia AIRE EDIH. AI & ROBOTICS ESTONIA 2.0 (EDIH) # Type EDIH name EDIH 2.0 Areas of Collaboration 1 MoU Nordic Manufacturing EDIHs MoU 1) Developing and offering joint services in areas participants: such as digital twins and virtual testbeds, enabling companies to simulate and optimise manufacturing ShiftLabs EDIH processes before implementation. AI & Robotics Estonia AIRE EDIH 2) Conducting joint training activities (e.g. (AIRE) webinars) and ecosystem events. Oceanopolis EDIH 3) Support SMEs in expanding internationally by Robocoast EDIH facilitating market access, international EDOcobot EDIH partnerships, and integrating them into the MIGHTY EDIH European AI ecosystem. DigIT Hub Sweden EDIH 4) Continue to enhance competitiveness and TechCircle/ED-EDIH sustainability within the Nordic manufacturing AM-EDIH sector in line with the goals of the European Digital Nemonoor EDIH Innovation Hubs network. 2 MoU Northern Netherlands EDIH (NN EDIH) AIRE NN EDIH: 1. Provide access to research findings and case studies related to digital transformation. 2. Organize initial meetings to set the collaborative agenda. 3. Contribute personnel for joint initiatives and workshops. AIRE EDIH: 1. Share insights on implementation challenges and solutions in digital projects. 2. Facilitate networking opportunities with industry experts. 3. Co-host workshops and events with EDIH NN. 3 MoU EDIH pro_digital AIRE 1) Forwarding of suitable beneficiaries to the respective services of the pro_digital and AIRE, with particular emphasis on “Skills and training” and “Innovation ecosystem and networking” services, in accordance with funding restrictions set up by the local (non-EU) funding bodies, 2) Mutual opening and promotion of activities and events for suitable beneficiaries, 3) Connecting pro_digital and AIRE ecosystems, 4) Mutual training and awareness raising activities, 5) Cooperation with other EDIHs in applying to Horizon Europe, Digital Europe, Creative Europe and other EU funding calls that might reinforce collaboration in the mutual benefit of both EDIHs ecosystems, 6) Sharing best practices in performing and managing EDIH’s activities, thematic topics; 7) Thematic visits; 8) Co-creating any other mutually beneficial activity. 4 MoU Artificial Intelligence Centre Hamburg 1) Both parties engage in promoting the different (ARIC EDIH) services of each EDIH as well as their activities, to AIRE develop and expand relationships in order to help SME in their digital transformation. 2) AIRE agrees to work with and coordinate with ARIC the development of their initiatives to improve and expand support to the SME for digitalization transformation and the application of AI & Robotics. 4) Joint innovation and learning infrastructure between ARIC and AIRE is to be established, and the existing strengths of the specific locations are to be made accessible and jointly used in the sense of a European technology alliance. 5) Both parties shall encourage and promote, in accordance with their respective laws and regulations, co-operation between the two Signing Institutions in the field of artificial intelligence and other innovative technologies, technology transfers, research and development and collaborations based on equality and mutual benefit and shall determine, by mutual agreement, the areas and subjects of such cooperation. 6) The cooperation partners would like to work closely together in the four strands of the EDIH: Test-before-Invest; Innovation Ecosystem and Networking; Skills & Training; Support to Find Invest. 5 MoU All Safe City OÜ Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and Non- AIRE Disclosure Agreement (NDA) established for collaborative framework between All Safe City (ASC) and Tallinn University of Technology represented by AIRE. The purpose is to validate the Active Air Protection System (AAPS), explore AI and machine learning applications, and safeguard confidential information exchanged during the collaboration. 6 MoU TEDIHT AIRE The Parties agree to explore potential collaboration opportunities within, but not limited to, the following areas of mutual interest: 1) AI Readiness and compliance support; 2) Digital and AI skills development; 3) Testing and experimentation access (Test Before Invest; 4) Support in accessing financing and investments; 5) Knowledge exchange and capacity building; 6) Cross-regional collaboration and EU integration activities; 7) Strategic communication and dissemination of EU Priorities 7 MoU EDIH Vilnius AIRE The Parties agree to collaborate in the field of Artificial Intelligence and Robotics and all the details and further ways of cooperation will be agreed between the Parties during negotiations and meetings. 8 LoI DI4LithuanianID EDIH AIRE Through cooperation, both parties aim to contribute meaningfully to the success of the EDIH2.0 initiative and to support the overarching objectives of the European Digital Strategy, specifically in: 1) Accelerating the uptake of Artificial Intelligence among SMEs and mid-caps across Europe; Bridging the innovation gap between research and real-world industrial application; 2) Advancing the twin transitions – digital and green – across our respective regions. As EDIHs committed to excellence and impact, the LoI confirms the intention to collaborate through the following actions: 1) Knowledge exchange: Sharing best practices, methodologies, and tools related to AI deployment, digital skills, innovation ecosystems, and SME support. 2) Service collaboration: Facilitating access to services for SMEs via coordinated outreach, matchmaking, and mutual referrals within our EDIH service portfolios. 3) Joint initiatives: Exploring opportunities for co- organizing training programs, cross-border pilot projects, awareness-raising events, and innovation support measures. 3) International collaboration: Jointly contributing to the development and delivery of the International Digital Innovation Academy (IDIA) aimed at supporting SME digital capability building at the European level. 9 LoI DIH4CAT AI Factory collaboration with BSC: As part of this collaboration, both parties welcome AIRE the potential engagement of BSC – Barcelona Supercomputing Center, a key technological partner in DIH4CAT and Spain’s national supercomputing center. BSC hosts the AI Factory and MareNostrum, one of Europe's most powerful supercomputers, and contributes to EuroHPC and the Spanish Supercomputing Network (RES). The collaboration will offer opportunities for SMEs and industry to access BSC’s AI and HPC services, infrastructure, and talent within the framework of AI Factories and the EuroHPC JU initiative. Where relevant, AIRE and DIH4CAT will explore synergies with the AI Factory ecosystem to enable high- impact AI use cases in manufacturing and other verticals. 1) Promote joint activities in the fields of test-before- invest, skills and training, innovation ecosystem collaboration, and support to find investment. 2) Pursue collaborative applications under relevant EU funding instruments including Digital Europe, Horizon Europe, and national innovation schemes. 3) Facilitate knowledge exchange, including best practices, methodologies, and SME support tools for AI, robotics, and deep tech deployment. 4) Enhance access for SMEs to cross-border expertise, infrastructure, and services by creating referral pathways between DIH4CAT and AIRE. 5) Develop and participate in joint pilot activities, innovation programmes, and awareness-raising actions across the regions of Estonia and Catalonia. 10 LoI InnDIH EDIH Test before invest; Skills and training; Support to AIRE find investments; Innovation ecosystem and networking. The following technology and application fields are of mutual interest: Technology fields: Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, High Performance Computing, Big Data, Robotics. Application fields: Manufacturing, Health, Quality of life, Life sciences, Tourism The following specific activities and services are of mutual interest between the two EDIHs: Exchange of use cases; Joint webinars, courses and/or digital roundtables to exchange experiences; Matchmaking events and activities to foster the adoption of digitalisation; Conferences or workshops and specific working groups; Foster collaboration in already running and new inter- regional projects; Commonly developed, next-to- come shared services. The complementarity of services will also be taken into consideration. These actions may be triggered through the following specific tasks: Definition of the Collaboration Framework at a legal, financial and operational level; Scouting of regional entities (SMEs, midcaps and public entities) interests and needs in terms of the technologies and application fields previously identified; Definition of a Shared Services Catalogue; Quality control, Reporting of the services provided. 11 LoI EDIH AICS2 AIRE is commited to supporting EDIH-AICS AIRE activities via artificial intelligence thematic collaborations in EDIH activities: 1) strategic management and knowledge sharing of experiences; 2) finding opportinuties for joint test before invest and funding collaborations 3) organising joint activities with the inclusion of regional SMEs and public sector entities; 4) jointly, with EDIH-AICS finding collaboration areas that benefit the clients and EDIH2.0 objectives. MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING (MOU) January 8, 2025 BETWEEN All Safe City OÜ (ASC) Register code: 16249500 Operating address: Pirita tee 20a/1 Tallinn Harjumaa 12011 Legal address Pirita tee 20a/1 Kesklinna linnaosa, Tallinn Harju maakond 12011 AND Tallinn Technical University (TalTech) Tallinna Tehnikaülikool Register code: 74000323 Operating address: Ehitajate tee 5 Tallinn Harjumaa 19086 Legal address Ehitajate tee 5 Mustamäe linnaosa, Tallinn Harju maakond 19086 1 1. Purpose This Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) establish a collaborative framework between All Safe City (ASC) and Tallinn Technical University (TalTech). The purpose is to validate the Active Air Protection System (AAPS), explore AI and machine learning applications, and safeguard confidential information exchanged during the collaboration. 2. Scope of Cooperation The cooperation will take place in three phases, covering air purification testing, data collection, and advanced AI development, in accordance with the proposal submitted by TalTech and the agreement to be concluded between the parties: Phase 1: Physical and Platform Testing ● Validate the AAPS’s air purification performance under controlled laboratory conditions. ● Test controllable parameters such as fan speed and UV light ON/OFF via ASC’s existing app and cloud platform. ● Conduct initial environmental testing for performance under varying temperature and humidity levels. Phase 2: Data Collection and Integration ● Deploy AAPS devices in real-world environments (schools, elderly care, public facilities) to collect and bundle over 12,000 lines of sensor data. ● Consolidate the data through ASC’s cloud platform and API access for TalTech’s analysis. Phase 3: AI Sorting and Advanced Applications ● Develop AI/ML models for anomaly detection, environmental predictions, and real-time actionable insights. ● Integrate data into an AI-driven “sorting station” for advanced applications, such as Smart City solutions, healthcare insights, and sustainability tools. 2 3. Confidentiality and Non-Disclosure Terms Both parties agree to: 1. Definition of Confidential Information: ○ All technical, business, operational, and proprietary information is shared, including but not limited to device performance, testing results, software, algorithms, designs, and research data. ○ Any data accessed through the ASC platform or APIs, including sensor outputs, anonymized user data, and analytics. 2. Obligations: ○ Both ASC and TalTech shall: ■ Use Confidential Information solely for the purposes of the collaboration outlined in this agreement. ■ Maintain strict confidentiality and protect all shared information against unauthorized access or disclosure. ■ Ensure that Confidential Information is shared only with personnel or students directly involved in testing or research, on a need-to-know basis. ○ Confidentiality obligations remain in effect for 5 years after the termination of this agreement. 3. Exclusions: ○ Information already in the public domain or independently developed without access to Confidential Information is excluded from confidentiality obligations. 4. Return or Destruction of Information: ○ Upon termination, all Confidential Information, whether written or digital, shall be returned or destroyed, unless required for academic research (with prior ASC approval). 4. Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) 1. Existing IP: ○ All existing technologies, designs, and solutions (material) belonging to the ASC remain the exclusive property of the ASC. TalTech retains ownership of its existing intellectual property. 3 ○ If ASC transfers material protected by intellectual property rights to TalTech for the purpose of implementing the cooperation project, the company shall also grant TalTech the right (license) to use said materials for the purpose of implementing the project. ASC confirms that it holds all intellectual property rights to the transferred material, and ASC shall be solely liable for any infringements of intellectual property rights of third parties that may be raised by third parties in connection with the use, improvement, modification, etc., of the transferred material. ○ If intellectual property belonging to TalTech is necessary for the ASC’s business activities, TalTech shall grant the company the right to use such intellectual property. The terms of use of the intellectual property shall be agreed upon in good faith, presumably for a reasonable fee. ○ ASC shall also have a preferential right to acquire a sole license or acquire ownership with a right of first refusal to the proprietary intellectual property rights to the intellectual property created by TalTech during the cooperation, if TalTech wishes to dispose of the intellectual property or grant its use under a sole license. 2. New Developments: ○ Any innovations, enhancements, or discoveries directly derived from ASC’s ideas or technologies remain the property of ASC. TalTech will have the right to use such developments strictly for academic, non-commercial purposes, with the Company's prior written consent. This consent will be granted in good faith and without undue delay unless justifiable reasons are provided. ○ The ownership of new intellectual property first created during the implementation of the project activities, and which inevitably uses or incorporates material transferred by ASC shall be determined in accordance with the Copyright Act. As a general principle, the author of a derivative work acquires copyright to their own work. 3. Jointly Developed IP: ○ Any jointly created intellectual property will be subject to a separate, mutually agreed-upon agreement for ownership, usage, and commercialization. 4 5. Roles and Responsibilities ASC Responsibilities: ● Provide AAPS devices, technical documentation, and API access for testing and research. ● Cover costs for initial deployment and facilitate collaboration with TalTech teams. ● Maintain sole ownership of any shared platforms, data, and results derived from ASC technologies. TalTech Responsibilities: ● The cooperation project is coordinated by AI and Robotics Estonia Center of Excellence in TalTech and will engage the necessary parties and manage all documentation related to the agreement's conclusion and execution. ● Conduct testing and validation phases, including environmental performance and data integration. ● Offer expertise in AI/ML modeling and provide analytical support. ● Engage students and researchers in testing processes under strict confidentiality guidelines. 6. Timeline Phase 1: Physical and Platform Testing Q1 2025 – Q2 2025 Phase 2: Data Collection & Integration Q2 2025 – Q4 2025 Phase 3: AI Sorting & Development Q2 2025 – Q4 2025 5 7. Dispute Resolution Any disputes arising under this agreement will be resolved amicably between the parties. If unresolved, disputes will be submitted to the courts in Tallinn, Estonia. 8. Term and Termination This agreement takes effect upon the signature of both parties and will remain valid for two (2) years unless terminated earlier by mutual written consent. Upon termination, all confidentiality and IP obligations outlined herein remain in force. 9. Mutual Benefits ● ASC: Gain academic expertise for testing, validation, and AI/ML development. ● TalTech: Access cutting-edge technology, real-world testing opportunities, and collaborative AI research for societal benefit. 10. Signatures All Safe City (ASC): Name: Gennadi Batsoutenko Title: CEO Date: _________________________ Tallinn Technical University (TalTech): Name: Kirke Maar Title: Head of AIRE Date: _________________________ 6 May 9th, 2025 Subject Letter of Intent for the Establishment of a Collaborative Framework between DI4LithuanianID EDIH and AI & Robotics Estonia (AIRE) EDIH. This Letter of Intent expresses the commitment to initiate and develop a strategic collaboration between DI4LithuanianID and AI & Robotics Estonia (AIRE) – two European Digital Innovation Hubs dedicated to advancing digital transformation across the Baltic region and the broader European Union. Through cooperation, both parties aim to contribute meaningfully to the success of the EDIH2.0 initiative and to support the overarching objectives of the European Digital Strategy, specifically in: • Accelerating the uptake of Artificial Intelligence among SMEs and mid-caps across Europe; • Bridging the innovation gap between research and real-world industrial application; • Advancing the twin transitions – digital and green – across our respective regions. As EDIHs committed to excellence and impact, this LoI confirms our intention to collaborate through the following actions: 1. Knowledge exchange: Sharing best practices, methodologies, and tools related to AI deployment, digital skills, innovation ecosystems, and SME support. 2. Service collaboration: Facilitating access to services for SMEs via coordinated outreach, matchmaking, and mutual referrals within our EDIH service portfolios. 3. Joint initiatives: Exploring opportunities for co-organizing training programs, cross- border pilot projects, awareness-raising events, and innovation support measures. 4. International collaboration: Jointly contributing to the development and delivery of the International Digital Innovation Academy (IDIA) aimed at supporting SME digital capability building at the European level. Both EDIHs recognize the complementarity of the service offerings and commit to ensuring that this collaboration is aligned, mutually beneficial, and designed to maximize the value delivered to SMEs and public sector entities in our regions. Both parties agree to explore the establishment of a joint monitoring mechanism to identify relevant indicators that track the collaboration’s impact, including shared services delivered, customer exchange, and cross-regional service uptake by SMEs and public administrations. This Letter of Intent serves as a non-binding expression of mutual interest and may be further formalized into specific cooperation agreements as the partnership evolves. (Signed digitally) AI & Robotics Estonia AIRE Kirke Maar Head of AIRE Letter of Intent As part of the work conducted in the innovation ecosystem of the European Digital Innovation Hubs Network, this Letter of Intent aims to express the strong support for the further implementation of the European Digital Innovation Hub applied Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity (EDIH-AICS). We firmly believe in the crucial role that EDIH-AICS plays in fostering innovation and digital transformation within our region and beyond, and we are eager to continue our collaboration to ensure its successful and impactful development. This letter serves as a clear indication of AI & Robotics Estonia AIRE EDIH’s commitment to contributing to the growth and sustainability of the EDIH- AICS initiative and is intented to outline the direction of future joint efforts in order to address digital challenges. The European Digital Innovation Hub AIRE established in Tallinn, Estonia, and European Digital Innovation Hub EDIH-AICS established in Karlsruhe, Germany, are both innovation entities actively supporting digitisation and structural transformation with the help of digital technologies in order to support the development of entepreneurs and SMEs in their respective regions. AI & Robotics Estonia (AIRE) is dedicated to supporting the digital transformation of small and medium- sized enterprises (SMEs) in Estonia and beyond. AIRE focuses on the adoption of artificial intelligence across SMEs, aiming to accelerate automation, improve competitiveness, and foster innovation capacity in manufacturing and other key sectors of economy. AIRE is commited to supporting EDIH-AICS activitites via artificial intelligence thematic collaborations in EDIH activities: 1) strategic management and knowledge sharing of experiences; 2) finding opportinuties for joint test before invest and funding collaborations 3) organising joint activities with the inclusion of regional SMEs and public sector entities; 4) jointly, with EDIH- AICS finding collaboration areas that benefit the clients and EDIH2.0 objectives. The objective of this Letter of Intent is to explore how to unite the efforts and capacities with the already established EDIH-AICS to provide services, carry out activities and events in support of the digital transformation in SMEs and PSOs, while strengthening their support ecosystem. This document was signed on: (date in digital container) On behalf of AI & Robotics Estonia AIRE First name and surname: Kirke Maar Signature (digitally signed) 1 Tallinn, Estonia 2 May 15th, 2025 Subject Letter of Intent for the establishment of a collaboration framework between “INNDIH – Valencia Region Digital Innovation Hub” and AIRE Estonia EDIH This Letter of Intent lays the foundation for the development of a joint collaboration between the two Digital Innovation Hubs. AI & Robotics Estonia (AIRE) is Estonia’s European Digital Innovation Hub (EDIH), dedicated to supporting the digital transformation of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Estonia and beyond. AIRE focuses on the adoption of artificial intelligence across SMEs, aiming to accelerate automation, improve competitiveness, and foster innovation capacity in manufacturing and other key sectors of economy. INNDIH is the Digital Innovation Hub based in the Valencia Region representing a major public-private collaborative effort where the business ecosystem, universities, technological and research centres, healthcare-biotech-research institutes, and public administrations join forces to promote the digitalization of SMEs of industry and Public Administration and achieve the main boost the economic development of the Valencia Region by bringing digital technologies, guaranteeing that any company and public administration in the region has access to know-how, training, technologies, infrastructure, and laboratories to improve and accelerate its digitalization. Both EDIHs incorporate and implement the concept of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIH) through the provision of testing and experimentation services that facilitates the investment decision- making process, supports the identification of financing sources and provide services for the development of digital skills and training programmes among other services. The areas of collaboration are related to: ● Test before invest, ● Skills and training, ● Support to find investments, ● Innovation ecosystem and networking The following technology and application fields are of mutual interest: ● Technology fields: Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, High Performance Computing, Big Data, Robotics. ● Application fields: Manufacturing, Health, Quality of life, Life sciencies, Tourism The following specific activities and services are of mutual interest between the two EDIHs: Página 1 de 2 ● Exchange of use cases ● Joint webinars, courses and/or digital roundtables to exchange experiences ● Matchmaking events and activities to foster the adoption of digitalisation ● Conferences or workshops and specific working groups ● Foster collaboration in already running and new inter-regional projects ● Commonly developed, next-to-come shared services Likewise, the complementarity of services will also be taken into consideration. This actions may be triggered through these specific tasks: ✔ 1. - Definition of the Collaboration Framework at a legal, financial and operational level. ✔ 2.- Scouting of regional entities (SMEs, midcaps and public entities) interests and needs in terms of the technologies and application fields previously identified. ✔ 3.- Definition of a Shared Services Catalogue ✔ 4.- Quality control, Reporting of the services provided. The main application domain where EDIHs may collaborate or cooperate with the objective of seeking greater efficiency in the provision of services to clients is Manufacturing, Health, Quality of life, Life sciencies, Tourism. The parties agree on considering setting up a monitoring common task, with the aim to identify indicators that can clearly describe the activity of the Hubs, number of shared services, customers, and the number of SMEs, Companies and Public Authorities based in one of the Regions accessing to the services provided by the counterpart. This letter of intent can be developed into more specific joint collaboration agreements between the two EDIHs if necessary. Firmante digital:24361063S LAURA CARMEN OLCINA (R: G96278734) DN:C=ES, O=INSTITUTO TECNOLOGICO DE INFORMATICA, OID.2.5.4.97=VATES-G96278734, CN=24361063S LAURA CARMEN OLCINA (R: Signed digitally G96278734), SN=OLCINA PUERTO, G=LAURA CARMEN, SERIALNUMBER=IDCES-24361063S, Description=Ref:AEAT/AEAT0351/PUESTO 1/56428/18072023101807 Fecha:12/05/2025 16:33:39 +02:00 _______________________ _____________________ Representative of AIRE Representative of INNDIH Kirke Maar (signed digitally) Dª. Laura Olcina Puerto Head of AIRE General Manager. Instituto Tecnológico de Informática Página 2 de 2 Letter of Intent This Letter of Intent expresses the mutual interest and commitment of AI & Robotics Estonia (AIRE) and DIH4CAT to initiate a strategic collaboration as part of the continued strengthening of the European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIH) network, under the framework of the DIGITAL-2025-EDIH-EU-EEA-08-CONSOLIDATION-STEP call. Both parties acknowledge the importance of cross-border collaboration to foster digital transformation across European industry and SME ecosystems. Through this agreement, the parties aim to:  Promote joint activities in the fields of test-before-invest, skills and training, innovation ecosystem collaboration, and support to find investment.  Pursue collaborative applications under relevant EU funding instruments including Digital Europe, Horizon Europe, and national innovation schemes.  Facilitate knowledge exchange, including best practices, methodologies, and SME support tools for AI, robotics, and deep tech deployment.  Enhance access for SMEs to cross-border expertise, infrastructure, and services by creating referral pathways between DIH4CAT and AIRE.  Develop and participate in joint pilot activities, innovation programmes, and awareness-raising actions across the regions of Estonia and Catalonia. AI Factory collaboration with BSC: As part of this collaboration, both parties welcome the potential engagement of BSC – Barcelona Supercomputing Center, a key technological partner in DIH4CAT and Spain’s national supercomputing center. BSC hosts the AI Factory and MareNostrum, one of Europe's most powerful supercomputers, and contributes to EuroHPC and the Spanish Supercomputing Network (RES). The collaboration will offer opportunities for SMEs and industry to access BSC’s AI and HPC services, infrastructure, and talent within the framework of AI Factories and the EuroHPC JU initiative. Where relevant, AIRE and DIH4CAT will explore synergies with the AI Factory ecosystem to enable high-impact AI use cases in manufacturing and other verticals. This Letter of Intent represents a non-binding expression of interest. The parties agree to further define the scope and operational modalities of the collaboration as the partnership evolves. Signed on behalf of: AI & Robotics Estonia AIRE Kirke Maar Head of AIRE (signed digitally) (date in digital container) MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING Between The European Digital Innovation Hub in Transilvania (TEDIHT) and AI & Robotics Estonia (AIRE EDIH) at Tallinn University of Technology Preface This Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) is concluded between: The European Digital Innovation Hub in Transilvania (TEDIHT), coordinated by Asociatia Transilvania IT (Transilvania IT Cluster), in collaboration with its partners: Babeș-Bolyai University (UBB), Technical University of Cluj-Napoca (UTCN), Hygia Consult and INCDTIM Cluj-Napoca (National Institute for Research and Development of Isotopic and Molecular Technologies), headquartered in Cluj-Napoca, North-West Region of Romania, established for the participation to the call for proposals DIGITAL- 2025-EDIH-EU-EEA-08-CONSOLIDATION-STEP "Consolidation of the Network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs with reinforced AI focus)", represented for the purpose of this MoU by The European Digital Innovation Hub in Transilvania (TEDIHT), hereinafter referred to as "TEDIHT"; AI & Robotics Estonia (AIRE EDIH) at Tallinn University of Technology, headquartered in Tallinn, Estonia, active in (to be adapted based on partner's main field of activity), supporting digital transformation, AI adoption and innovation ecosystems and committed to contributing to the objectives of the European Digital Innovation Hub Network, represented for the purpose of this MoU by AI & Robotics Estonia (AIRE EDIH) at Tallinn University of Technology, hereinafter referred to as "Partner". Both parties, hereinafter referred to collectively as "the Parties", acknowledge the importance of strengthening collaboration within the European network of Digital Innovation Hubs to foster innovation, support the adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital technologies by SMEs, mid-caps and public sector organizations and contribute to achieving the objectives of the European Digital Transformation Agenda. This MoU is non-binding and serves to establish a mutual understanding and framework for voluntary collaboration. This collaboration aims to enhance the impact of the European EDIH network and reinforce the adoption of Artificial Intelligence in line with EU Digital Decade targets. Article 1: Purpose and Scope The purpose of this MoU is to set the framework for cooperation between TEDIHT and AI & Robotics Estonia (AIRE EDIH) at Tallinn University of Technology to: ● Facilitate digital transformation and AI integration across SMEs, mid-caps and public sector organizations; ● Provide joint support services for "test-before-invest", AI readiness, digital maturity, skills building and access to finance; ● Promote knowledge transfer, innovation and sustainable growth in line with EU digital policies; ● Strengthen cross-regional collaboration and cohesion among European DIHs. The collaboration could involve, but is not limited to, activities such as the following, depending on areas of mutual relevance: ● Joint provision of services (e.g., digital maturity assessments, AI prototype validation, test-before-invest services); ● Exchange of expertise, knowledge, best practices; ● Joint organization of events (e.g., trainings, workshops, matchmaking, conferences); ● Participation in common European or national projects; ● Mutual support in promoting each other's activities and results. Article 2: Areas of Collaboration The Parties agree to explore potential collaboration opportunities within, but not limited to, the following areas of mutual interest: ● AI Readiness and compliance support ● Digital and AI skills development ● Testing and experimentation access (Test Before Invest) ● Support in accessing financing and investments ● Knowledge exchange and capacity building ● Cross-regional collaboration and EU integration activities ● Strategic communication and dissemination of EU Priorities Article 3: Confidentiality Both Parties shall treat as confidential any information disclosed during their collaboration which is designated as confidential or reasonably should be understood as confidential. Confidential information shall not be disclosed to any third party without the prior written consent of the disclosing Party, except where required by law. Both Parties agree to process any personal data solely for purposes related to this MoU and in full compliance with the GDPR Regulation (EU 2016/679). Article 4: Non-Binding Nature This MoU is an expression of goodwill between the Parties. It does not create any legal obligation or financial commitment, nor does it establish a formal partnership, joint venture, or agency relationship. Any legally binding agreements or collaborative activities arising from this MoU shall be subject to separate agreements signed by the Parties. Article 5: Duration and Termination This MoU shall enter into force on the date of signature by both Parties and shall remain valid for a period of five (5) years, unless otherwise terminated earlier by either Party. Each Party may terminate this MoU by providing thirty (30) days written notice to the other Party, without any penalty or liability. This MoU may be amended or extended upon mutual written agreement between the Parties. Article 6: Contact Points Each Party shall designate a Contact Point for communication and coordination purposes. For TEDIHT: Bianca Muntean, Cluster Manager, Coordinator, [email protected] For AI & Robotics Estonia (AIRE EDIH) at Tallinn University of Technology: Kirke Maar, Manager of AI & Robotics Estonia, [email protected] Signatures Signed in two original copies, one for each Party, on the date indicated below. For TEDIHT - The European Digital For AI & Robotics Estonia (AIRE Innovation Hub in Transilvania EDIH) at Tallinn University of Technology Name: Bianca Muntean Name: Kirke Maar Position: Cluster Manager, EDIH Coordinator Position: Manager of AI & Robotics Date: 09.05.2025 Estonia Date: 09.05.2025 Signature: _____________________ Signature: _____________________ European Digital • • ‘■< <y Innovation Hub Northern Netherlands MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING Between: EDIH NN Paterswoldseweg 810 9728 BM Groningen info@edih-nn-n| And: EDIH AIRE Ehitajate tee 5 19086 Tallinn Estonia [email protected] Purpose The purpose of this Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) is to establish a collaborative partnership between EDIH NN and EDIH AIRE to enhance digital transformation efforts within both projects. Both parties aim to share resources, knowledge, and best practices to achieve common goals and address challenges associated with digitalization. Objectives The objectives of this MoU include: 1. Knowledge access and knowledge transfer (e.g., tools like Digital Maturity and Autonomous System assessments) 2. Solving digital problems (technology/use cases), e.g., Autonomous Shipping: MindChip OÜ, registration number 14639243 3. Sharing resources and know-how Sharing structure, work processes (including best practices and lessons learned) Roles and Responsibilities Both parties agree to undertake the following roles and responsibilities: EDIH NN: 1. Provide access to research findings and case studies related to digital transformation. 2. Organize initial meetings to set the collaborative agenda. 3. Contribute personnel for joint initiatives and workshops. EDIH AIRE: 1. Share insights on implementation challenges and solutions in digital projects. Co-funded by EDIH NN - DIGITAL-2O21-EDIH-O1 the European Union PROJECT: 101083001 European Digital Innovation Hub Northern Netherlands 2. Facilitate networking opportunities with industry experts. 3. Co-host workshops and events with EDIH NN. Duration This MoU shall commence on the date of signing and will remain in effect for two years, unless terminated by either party with 30 days written notice. Confidentiality Both parties agree to maintain confidentiality regarding sensitive information Shared as part of this partnership. This confidentiality obligation shall survive the termination of this MoU. Amendments This MoU may be amended or modified only by a written agreement signed by both parties. Signatures By signing below, both parties agree to the terms outlined in this Memorandum of Understanding. EDIH NN: EDIH AIRE: Co-funded by EDIH NN - DIGITAL-2O21-EDIH-O1 the European Union PROJECT: 101083001 MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING between AI & Robotics Estonia (AIRE) at Taltech, Tallinn University of Technology (Estonia) and EDIH Vilnius at Sunrise Tech Park, Sunrise Valley Science and Technology Park (Lithuania) In accordance with a mutual desire to promote collaboration between AI & Robotics Estonia (AIRE) at Taltech, Tallinn University of Technology (hereafter abbreviated as “TalTech AIRE”) and EDIH Vilnius coordinated by Sunrise Tech Park (hereafter abbreviated as “EDIH Vilnius ”), both institutions enter into this Memorandum of Understanding on research, education and cultural cooperation. TalTech, represented by Kirke Maar, Head of AI & Robotics Estonia (AIRE) at Taltech, and Sunrise Tech Park, represented by Laima Balčiūnė, Director of Sunrise Tech Park and Manager of EDIH Vilnius, (hereinafter referred to as the “Parties”), agree with the following: The Parties agree to collaborate in the field of Artificial Intelligence and Robotics and all the details and further ways of cooperation will be agreed between the Parties during the following negotiations and meetings. No financial commitment and/or any other commitment or liability by either party is to be implied from this Memorandum of Understanding. Cooperation in specific areas and details will be implemented upon mutual agreement and will be outlined in a separate agreement on cooperation or addendum to this Memorandum upon its signature by the authorized representatives. Both Parties agree that all financial issues necessary to implement this Memorandum will be negotiated and will be subject to the availability of funds. Both Parties agree to seek possibilities for funding from both public and private sources in support of their joint interests. The Memorandum of Understanding will come into effect after being signed by the authorized representatives of both Parties and is valid for the period of 5 (five) years. 1 The Memorandum of Understanding is concluded in English and signed digitally. Contact person at TalTech AIRE: Kirke Maar, Head of Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics AIRE, [email protected]. Contact person at EDIH Vilnius: Laima Balčiūnė, Director of Sunrise Tech Park, [email protected]. For TalTech For Sunrise Tech Park AI & Robotics Estonia (AIRE) at EDIH Vilnius Taltech Saulėtekio al 15-316, 10225 Vilnius Lithuania Ehitajate tee 5, Tallinn 19086 Estonia _______________________________ _______________________________ Kirke Maar Laima Balčiūnė Head of Centre Director Date ________________________ Date ____________________________ 2 Memorandum of Understanding for Nordic Manufacturing EDIHs cooperation Date: 6.05.2025 Parties The undersigned European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs) specialising in the manufacturing sector across the Nordic region. Purpose The Nordic Manufacturing EDIHs establish this Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to formalise their collaborative network aimed at accelerating digital transformation and EU AI Ecosystem development within the manufacturing sector across the Nordic region. Background During the EDIHs 2022-2025 call, the Nordic Manufacturing EDIHs group has successfully: • Formed a cohesive collaboration network for manufacturing-focused EDIHs. • Fostering cross-border collaboration and knowledge exchange. • Conducted benchmarking activities to identify best practices ensuring high-quality support for SMEs. • Started to develop joint strategies to address common challenges in digitalization and sustainability within the manufacturing industry in the framework of EDIHs. Commitments The Nordic Manufacturing EDIHs agree to: • Developing and offering joint services in areas such as digital twins and virtual testbeds, enabling companies to simulate and optimise manufacturing processes before implementation. • Conducting joint training activities (e.g. webinars) and ecosystem events. • Support SMEs in expanding internationally by facilitating market access, international partnerships, and integrating them into the European AI ecosystem. • Continue to enhance competitiveness and sustainability within the Nordic manufacturing sector in line with the goals of the European Digital Innovation Hubs network. The collaboration is coordinated by ShiftLabs EDIH (Sweden). Validity This Memorandum reflects the mutual intentions of the parties and serves as a basis for continued cooperation. It is not legally binding but expresses a strong commitment to joint action. Duration This MoU shall commence on the date of signing by all parties and and will remain in effect for EDIH 2.0 period until the end of December 2028. Signatures: Johan Kostela, ShiftLabs EDIH Date (digital container) Signature (digitally signed) Kirke Maar, AI & Robotics Estonia AIRE EDIH Date (digital container) Signature (digitally signed) Stig Marthinsen, Oceanopolis EDIH Date (digital container) Signature (digitally signed) Mikko Puputti, Robocoast EDIH Date (digital container) Signature (digitally signed) Kasper Aagaard, EDOcobot EDIH Date (digital container) Signature (digitally signed) Torbjörn Jonsson, MIGHTY EDIH Date (digital container) Signature (digitally signed) Magnus Bäckmark, DigIT Hub Sweden EDIH Date (digital container) Signature (digitally signed) Lars Mønsted Nielsen, TechCircle/ED-EDIH Date (digital container) Signature (digitally signed) Lars Nyborg, AM-EDIH Date (digital container) Signature (digitally signed) Eirik Andreassen, Nemonoor EDIH Date (digital container) Signature (digitally signed) Johan Kostela (digitally signed) Date signed: 06.05.2025 at 06:44 Kirke Maar (digitally signed) Date signed: 06.05.2025 at 14:21 Signature encrypted in digital container Stig Marthinsen (digitally signed) Date signed: 07.05.2025 Mikko Puputti (digitally signed) Date signed: 06.05.2025 at 08:08 Kasper Aagaard (digitally signed) Date signed: 07.05.2025 at 06:27 Torbjörn Jonsson (digitally signed) Date signed: 06.05.2025 at 12:56 Magnus Bäckmark (digitally signed) Date signed: 07.05.2025 at 15:34 Lars Mønsted Nielsen (digitally signed) Date signed: 06.05.2025 at 08:23 Lars Nyborg (digitally signed) Date signed: 12.05.2025 at 09:22 Designate signatory: Eirik Andreassen Alternate Signatory: Mikael Melitshenko (digitally signed) Date signed: 07.05.2025 We, Nemonoor EDIH, confirm that Mikael Melitshenko, who signed the MoU on 7th of May 2025, is duly authorised to sign on behalf of our center. The name listed in the MoU document was erroneous. This declaration affirms our binding acceptance of the terms as agreed by the other signatories. Digitally sealed by the European Commission Date: 2025.05.13 13:27:45 CEST Reason: Acknowledgement of Receipt This electronic receipt is a digitally signed version of the document submitted by your organisation. Both the content of the document and a set of metadata have been digitally sealed. This digital signature mechanism, using a public-private key pair mechanism, uniquely binds this eReceipt to the modules of the Funding & Tenders Portal of the European Commission, to the transaction for which it was generated and ensures its full integrity. Therefore a complete digitally signed trail of the transaction is available both for your organisation and for the issuer of the eReceipt. Any attempt to modify the content will lead to a break of the integrity of the electronic signature, which can be verified at any time by clicking on the eReceipt validation symbol. More info about eReceipts can be found in the FAQ page of the Funding & Tenders Portal. (https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/portal/screen/support/faq) Commission européenne/Europese Commissie, 1049 Bruxelles/Brussel, BELGIQUE/BELGIË - Tel. +32 22991111 Lisa 4: AIRE jätkusuutlikkuse mudeli väljatöötamise tegevuskava AIRE’l on kohustus töötada välja jätkusuutlikkuse mudel ehk AIRE toimemudel alates 2028. aastast, kui lõppeb Euroopa Komisjoni ja MKMi rahastus käesoleva lepingu alusel. Mudel peab sisaldama isetasuvuse aspekti. Mudeli väljatöötamine toimub koostöös konsortsiumi partnerite ja koostööpartnerite, Majandus- ja Kommunikatsiooniministeeriumiga (MKM), erasektori ja teiste ökosüsteemi osapooltega, igas kvartalis toimuvate aruteludena. Jätkusuutlikkuse mudel tuleb esitada MKMile hiljemalt novembriks 2026 ning Euroopa Komisjonile 28. veebruariks 2027. Alljärgnev esialgne tegevuskava kirjeldab etappe, mille kaudu AIRE käivitab ja viib ellu jätkusuutlikkuse mudeli arendamise protsessi. Täpsem tegevuskava töötatakse välja protsessi esimeses etapis. Esialgne tegevuskava Etapp Kirjeldus Aeg Oodatav tulemus 1. Koostööraamistiku määratlemine, Oktoober - Täpne tegevuskava Ettevalmistav visiooni täpsustamine ja täpsema detsember jätkusuutlikkuse faas tegevuskava koostamine 2025 mudeli väljatöötamiseks 2. Sisendi Vestlused ja ümarlauad AIRE Jaanuar - Visioonipaber AIRE kogumine partneritega , tagasiside kogumine: aprill vajadusest ja  missioon ehk miks on AIREt 2026 eesmärkidest 2028+ vaja 2028+-  visioon ehk mis roll on AIRE’l 2028+ AI ökosüsteemis  turuanalüüs/jätkusuutlikkuse analüüs 3. Töötubade Koostööseminarid partneritega , Mai – Esialgne ja arutelude EDIH võrgustiku kogemused: august visioonipaber on faas  AIRE 2028+ strateegiline 2026 koostööpartneritega eesmärk valideeritud  AIRE 2028+ fookus ja ressursid  AIRE 2028+ tegevused ja mõõdikud 4. Mustandi Jätkusuutlikkuse Mudelite September AIRE tulevane roll koostamine ja koostamine, valideerimine MKMi, - ja positsioon Eesti valideerimine erasektori ja AIRE juhtkomiteega. november innovatsiooni 2026 ökosüsteemis on sõnastatud 5. Lõplik Lõplik versioon, rakendusplaani November AIRE 2028+ versioon ja koostamine, AIRE juhtkomitees 2026 – jätkusuutlikkuse rakendusplaan kinnitamine jaanuar mudel on koostatud 2027 6. Mudeli Mudeli vormistus ja esitamine. Veebruar AIRE 2028+ esitamine 2027 jätkusuutlikkuse Euroopa mudel on esitatud Komisjonile Euroopa Komisjonile SIHTOTSTARBELISE ERALDISE LEPING nr 8-1/306-1 28.10.2025 Majandus- ja Kommunikatsiooniministeerium (edaspidi ministeerium), registrikood 70003158, asukohaga Suur-Ameerika 1, 10122 Tallinn, keda esindab majandus- ja tööstusminister Erkki Keldo, ja Tallinna Tehnikaülikool (edaspidi eraldise saaja), registrikood 74000323, asukohaga Ehitajate tee 5, 19086 Tallinn, keda esindab rektori 22.12.2016 käskkirja nr 186 alusel ettevõtlusprorektor Erik Puura, edaspidi nimetatud eraldi ka pool ning koos pooled, lähtudes sellest, et: - väliskaubandus- ja infotehnoloogiaministri 21.05.2020 käskkirja nr 101 „Konkurss Euroopa Liidu digitaalse innovatsiooni keskuse võrgustikus Eesti riigi soovitusel osaleva konsortsiumi väljaselgitamiseks“ alusel korraldatud konkursil valiti eraldise saaja, Tartu Ülikooli, Eesti Maaülikooli, OÜ IMECC, Sihtasutuse Tartu Teaduspark ja Sihtasutuse Tallinna Teaduspark TEHNOPOL moodustatud konsortsium AI & Robotics Estonia (edaspidi AIRE) Euroopa Liidu digitaalse innovatsiooni keskuse (European Digital Innovation Hub; edaspidi EDIH) võrgustikus Eesti riigi soovitusel osalevaks konsortsiumiks; - AIRE esitas 13.05.2025 Euroopa Komisjonile projekti taotluse koos 05.05.2025 kinnituskirjaga nr 10-2/1779-1 „The proof of EU Member State designation“, millega MKM kinnitas Eesti riigi valmisolekut projekti elluviimist kaasrahastada; - 04.08.2025 teavitas Euroopa Komisjon AIRE-t otsusest, mille kohaselt sai projekti taotlus heakskiidu ja juhul, kui AIRE allkirjastab Euroopa Komisjoniga asjakohase lepingu, rahastab Euroopa Liit projekti elluviimist 2 454 545.45 euroga; sõlmivad sihtotstarbelise eraldise lepingu alljärgnevas. 1. Lepingu objektiks olev eraldis ja selle väljamaksmine 1.1. Lepingu objektiks on ministeeriumilt 3 000 000 euro (edaspidi eraldis) eraldamine eraldise saajale. 1.2. Eraldise saaja kohustub eraldist kasutama AIRE ja Tallinna Ülikooli koostöös projekti 101256226 — AIRE2 elluviimiseks. Eraldise kasutamisel juhindub eraldise saaja projekti taotlusest (lisa 1), eelarvest (lisa 2) ja asjakohastest riigiabi ning vähese tähtsusega abi reeglitest (lisa 3). 1.3. Ministeerium kannab eraldise arveldusarvele: Tallinna Tehnikaülikool, IBAN EE201010052037382001, SWIFT EEUHEE2X, AS SEB Pank, osamaksetena järgmiselt: 2 1.3.1. esimene osamakse summas 250 000 eurot 10 kalendripäeva jooksul lepingu sõlmimisest arvates; 1.3.2. teine osamakse summas 550 000 eurot 10 kalendripäeva jooksul esimese vahearuande, mille eraldise saaja esitab hiljemalt 31.03.2026, heakskiitmisest arvates; 1.3.3. kolmas osamakse summas 550 000 eurot 10 kalendripäeva jooksul teise vahearuande, mille eraldise saaja esitab hiljemalt 30.09.2026, heakskiitmisest arvates; 1.3.4. neljas osamakse summas 550 000 eurot 10 kalendripäeva jooksul kolmanda vahearuande, mille eraldise saaja esitab hiljemalt 31.03.2027, heakskiitmisest arvates; 1.3.5. viies osamakse summas 550 000 eurot 10 kalendripäeva jooksul neljanda vahearuande, mille eraldise saaja esitab hiljemalt 30.09.2027, heakskiitmisest arvates; 1.3.6. kuues osamakse summas 550 000 eurot 10 kalendripäeva jooksul viienda vahearuande, mille eraldise saaja esitab hiljemalt 31.03.2028, heakskiitmisest arvates; 2. Ministeeriumi õigused ja kohustused 2.1. Ministeeriumil on õigus kontrollida eraldise saaja tegevuse vastavust lepingus kokku lepitule, sealhulgas: 2.1.1. saada täiendavat informatsiooni vastavalt p-s 3.1 nimetatule; 2.1.2. kontrollida eraldise saaja juures ministeeriumile esitatud aruandluse, informatsiooni ja dokumentide õigsust; 2.1.3. auditeerida eraldise saaja tegevust lepingu täitmisel. 2.2. Ministeerium avaldab lepingu koos lisadega ministeeriumi veebilehel viie tööpäeva jooksul selle allkirjastamisest arvates. 3. Eraldise saaja õigused ja kohustused 3.1. Eraldise saajal on kohustus koostada ministeeriumi nõudmisel eraldise kasutamisega seotud ülevaateid ja muul viisil anda aru eraldise kasutamisest ning projekti edenemisest. 3.2. Eraldise saajal on kohustus kaasata MKM esindaja lisas 1 nimetatud juhtkomitee (Steering Group) kvartaalsetele koosolekutele ning tagada, et kaks korda aastas vaatab juhtkomitee üle ja kinnitab projekti viimase kuue kuu progressi ning eeloleva kuue kuu detailse tööplaani ja mõõdikute (lisa 2 key performance indicator, KPI) põhise eelarve. 3.3. Eraldise saajal on kõik vähese tähtsusega abi ja riigiabi andmisega seotud kohustused, sealhulgas: 3.3.1. kanda vähese tähtsusega abi ja riigiabi andmed riigiabi ja vähese tähtsusega abi registrisse; 3.3.2. säilitada vähese tähtsusega abi ja riigiabi andmisega seotud dokumente kümme aastat alates päevast, mil abi anti. 3.4. Kui eraldise saaja täidab VÕS §-s 102 sätestatud teavitamiskohustust, kohustuvad pooled kokku leppima järgneva 30 kalendripäeva jooksul edasise tegevuse ja muudavad vajadusel lepingut. 3.5. Eraldise saajal on kohustus tagada auditeerivatele ja kontrollivatele ministeeriumi ametnikele juurdepääs asjakohasele informatsioonile ning dokumentidele. 3.6. Eraldise saajal on kohustus tagastada projekti lõppemisel kasutamata jäänud eraldis ministeeriumile hiljemalt 30 kalendripäeva jooksul lõpparuande kinnitamisest arvates. Projekti ennetähtaegse lõpetamise või lepingu erakorralise ülesütlemise korral tagastatakse kasutamata jäänud eraldise jääk punktis 4.6 nimetatud aruande esitamise tähtajaks. 3.7. Eraldise saaja kohustub välja töötama AIRE jätkusuutlikkuse mudeli perioodiks 2028+ vastavalt lisas 3 toodud tegevuskavale. Jätkusuutlikkuse mudel tuleb esitada kirjalikku 3 taasesitamist võimaldavas vormis ministeeriumile hiljemalt novembris 2026. a ja Euroopa Komisjonile 28. veebruariks 2027. 4. Eraldise saaja aruanded 4.1. Eraldise saaja esitab ministeeriumile vahearuanded punktides 1.3.2–1.3.6 sätestatud tähtpäevadeks ja lõpparuande 45 kalendripäeva jooksul pärast lisas 1 näidatud tegevuste lõppemist, kuid mitte hiljem kui 15.10.2028. 4.2. Vahearuandes esitatakse: juhtkomitee poolt kinnitatud võtmemõõdikute (lisas 2 toodud target KPI) progress, ülevaade tekkinud tööstusomandist ning juhtkomitee poolt kinnitatud eeloleva kuue kuu detailne tööplaan. Kolmanda vahearuandega esitatakse täiendavalt ka ülevaade eraldise kasutamisest projekti esimese 18 kuu jooksul vastavalt Euroopa Komisjoni EDIH finantsaruandluse nõuetele, mis saavad osaks Euroopa Komisjoni ja AIRE vahel sõlmitavast projekti rahastamislepingust. Lõpparuanne sisaldab ülevaadet projekti võtmemõõdikute tulemuslikkusest, tekkinud tööstusomandist ning eraldise kasutamisest. 4.3. Ministeerium annab eraldise saaja aruannetele hinnangu e-posti teel 30 kalendripäeva jooksul aruande kättesaamisest arvates. 4.4. Kui ministeerium ei kiida aruannet heaks ja osutab selle puudustele, parandab eraldise saaja aruannet ning esitab kahe nädala jooksul ministeeriumi hinnangu saamisest arvates ministeeriumile parandatud aruande. Ministeerium annab parandatud aruandele hinnangu kahe nädala jooksul selle saamisest arvates. 4.5. Kui ministeerium ei anna aruandele või parandatud aruandele hinnangut punktis 4.3 või 4.4 toodud tähtaja jooksul, loetakse aruanne ministeeriumi poolt heakskiidetuks. 4.6. Projekti ennetähtaegse lõpetamise või lepingu erakorralise ülesütlemise korral tuleb esitada aruanne tehtud ja tegemata jäänud kulutuste ning tehtud ja tegemata jäänud tegevuste kohta 30 kalendripäeva jooksul pärast projekti ennetähtaegset lõpetamist või lepingu erakorralist ülesütlemist. 5. Lepingu erakorralise ülesütlemise tagajärg Kui leping lõpeb lepingu erakorralise ülesütlemisega, on eraldise saajal kohustus tagastada kasutamata eraldis 30 kalendripäeva jooksul lepingu lõppemisest arvates. Kui kasutamata eraldist nimetatud aja jooksul ei tagastata, maksab eraldise saaja tagasimaksmisele kuuluva eraldise summa jäägilt intressi määraga 6 kuu Euribor + 5% aastas. Intressiarvestuse baasiks on tegelik päevade arv kuus ja 360-päevane aasta. 6. Projekti elluviimisel tekkiv intellektuaalne omand 6.1. Intellektuaalne omand käesoleva lepingu tähenduses on kõik intellektuaalse omandi kaitsevormid kõikjal maailmas, sh aga mitte ainult, leiutised, patendid, mikrolülituse topoloogiad, kasulikud mudelid, tööstusdisainilahendused, autoriõigused ja autoriõiguste- ga kaasnevad õigused, andmebaasi tegija õigused, kaubamärgid, ärisaladus ja taotlused nimetatud õiguste registreerimiseks. 6.2. Pooled eeldavad, et projekti elluviimisel võib tekkida eelkõige autoriõigusega kaitstavat intellektuaalset omandit, sh tarkvara. Projekti osaks oleva teenuse Test before invest AI demo projects (demoprojekt) pakkumisel kasutatakse sisendina ning luuakse vabavaralist tarkvara, mis võimaldab demoprojekti tulemusi avalikustada ja vabalt kasutada, sh ärilistel eesmärkidel (nt Apache, BSD või MIT litsentsi alusel). Eraldise saaja avaldab demoprojekti mittekonfidentsiaalsed tulemused avatud teaduse põhimõtete kohaselt ja teeb kättesaadavaks mõne avaliku koodihoidla kaudu. 4 6.3. Pooled eeldavad, et üldjuhul demoprojektis ei teki uut tööstusomandit (patendi või kasuliku mudelina kaitstavaid leiutisi). Kui demoprojekti käigus siiski tekib kaitstavat tööstusomandit, seisab eraldise saaja hea selle eest, et selle kuuluvus määratakse vastavalt tööstusomandi autorsusele, sh autori ja tema tööandja vahelistele kokkulepetele. Eraldise saaja tagab, et tööstusomandi omanik annab sellise tööstusomandi kasutamiseks huvitatud isikutele litsentsi õiglastel ja mõistlikel tingimustel ehk turutingimustel, mis võib sisaldada litsentsitasu tööstusomandi kaitsmiseks vajalike kulutuste katmiseks ja tööstusomandi autoritele seaduses sätestatud tulu tagamiseks. 6.4. Demoprojekt ei mõjuta varasema tööstusomandi kuuluvust ning sellega seotud kasutusõigusi. 6.5. Erandjuhul võib demoprojekti elluviimiseks olla vajalik varasem intellektuaalne omand, mille sisend ei ole kättesaadav vabavaralise tarkvarana või mille sisend on kaitstud tööstusomandina. Intellektuaalse omandi, sh tööstusomandi kuuluvuse ja kasutamise tingimused sellises projektis räägivad pooled läbi eraldi, arvestades varasema intellektuaalse omandi kuuluvust ja selle suhtes kehtivaid kasutustingimusi, samuti riigiabi ja grupierandi reegleid ning sellise lepingu tingimused kooskõlastab eraldise saaja eelnevalt ministeeriumiga. 7. Lepingu kehtivus Pooled loevad lepingu pärast selle allkirjastamist sõlmituks hetkest, mil Euroopa Komisjon allkirjastab AIRE-ga projekti elluviimise rahastamiseks asjakohase rahastamislepingu. Pooled rakendavad lepingut tagasiulatuvalt alates 01.09.2025. 8. Lõppsätted 8.1. Eraldise saaja kontaktisik lepingu täitmisel on Katre Eljas [email protected] ja MKMi kontaktisik lepingu täitmisel on innovatsiooni ja tehnoloogia osakonna juhataja Paul Liias, [email protected]. 8.2. Lepinguga seotud teated ja aruanded tuleb poole kontaktisikul edastada teise poole kontaktisiku e-posti aadressile. 8.3. Eraldise saaja volitab oma kontaktisikut eraldise saaja nimel allkirjastama p-s 4 nimetatud aruandeid. (allkirjastatud digitaalselt) (allkirjastatud digitaalselt) Erkki Keldo Erik Puura majandus- ja tööstusminister ettevõtlusprorektor

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