Andalusia strengthens its agri-food digitalization with Andalucía Agrotech DIH
Description
The Andalusian Regional Government, through the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water, and Rural Development, is firmly promoting digitalization and innovation in the agri-food sector. An example of this commitment is the leadership of Andalucía Agrotech DIH (Digital Innovation Hub), a digital innovation center designed to foster the modernization of the entire agri-food value chain in the region.
European recognition and key funding
Within the framework of the Digital Europe Programme (DEP) 2021-2027, the European Commission has promoted the creation of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIH) to accelerate the digitalization of companies, especially SMEs. Andalucía Agrotech DIH has obtained recognition as a European Digital Innovation Hub, allowing it to join an exclusive innovation network and raise €4.27 million in European funding.
These resources will be used to offer a wide range of services to Andalusian SMEs, including access to financing, technological development, professional training, talent attraction, and the promotion of open innovation. The initiative, whose physical center is located in Córdoba, has partner organizations spread throughout Andalusia to ensure a close and efficient service to the region's agri-food companies.
Strategic objectives for digitalization
The main mission of Andalucía Agrotech DIH is to accelerate the adoption of digital technologies in the agri-food sector, boosting its competitiveness and sustainability. Its key objectives include:
- To be a European benchmark in agricultural technology , promoting digitalization throughout the agri-food value chain.
- Facilitate the digital transformation of SMEs through technological solutions tailored to their needs.
- Offer a one-stop shop that centralizes research, technology, financing, and training resources.
- Promote cooperation among the various stakeholders in the agri-food ecosystem, fostering collaborative innovation.
Four pillars of advice
Andalucía Agrotech DIH provides specialized advice in four key areas:
- Technological services (“Test Before Invest”) : Digital diagnosis, technology integration, proof of concept and access to experimental laboratories.
- Technological awareness and networking : Promoting open innovation, incubating and accelerating projects, and creating technology consortia.
- Digital Skills Training : Courses, workshops, and business strategies to strengthen digital skills in the sector.
- Access to financing : Support in obtaining public and private funds for the implementation of digital solutions.
A consolidated innovation ecosystem
The initiative is led by the Andalusian Regional Government in collaboration with 31 partner organizations and six associate organizations, representing 70% of the resources allocated to digital innovation in the region. Furthermore, Andalucía Agrotech DIH has a community of more than 250 entities, including startups, agrotech companies, training centers, and development groups, consolidating a robust ecosystem for the digital transformation of the Andalusian agri-food sector.
The European recognition of Andalucía Agrotech DIH reinforces Andalusia's position as a benchmark hub for agri-food innovation, providing new opportunities for SMEs and strengthening the region's international competitiveness.