Where local innovation meets European ambition
In today’s fast-evolving digital landscape, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) face an urgent challenge: how to remain competitive, resilient, and sustainable in the face of unprecedented technological shifts. At the GAIA Foundation, we believe that this transformation must be ethical, human-centric, and inclusive.
That’s why we are proud to be a core partner in the WAMA EDIH (WaMa European Digital Innovation Hub) initiative – an ambitious project powered by the Digital Europe Programme and European Funds for the Modern Economy, aimed at boosting the digital maturity of enterprises, mainly in Warmia-Masuria and Mazovia, two economically diverse and strategically vital regions of Poland.
What is WAMA EDIH?
WAMA EDIH is a European Digital Innovation Hub. It serves as a comprehensive support center for SMEs, offering tailor-made services that guide businesses through every stage of their digital transformation – from early diagnostics to implementation, prototyping, and scaling.
The project supports sectors such as Robotics, EdTech, Smart City, IoT, and AgriTech, and provides access to advanced technologies including AI, cybersecurity, high-performance computing (HPC), digital infrastructure, and advanced digital skills.
GAIA, together with Answer42 and other consortium members, contributes to the project by offering three strategic services designed to maximize the digital and strategic potential of participating companies.
Our Role in the Transformation Journey
1. AI-Powered Digital Transformation for SMEs
One of our key services under WAMA EDIH involves helping businesses harness the transformative power of artificial intelligence. We offer:
- Access to pre-developed and customizable AI algorithms
- Support in creating AI-based product models
- Guidance in chatbot and conversational interface design
- Techniques to enhance human-technology interaction
- Training in effective digital communication with AI tools
This service allows SMEs to not only integrate AI, but to do so thoughtfully – boosting both efficiency and customer engagement.
2. Scaling Businesses with AI
Digital transformation is only the beginning. Scaling that transformation is where real impact is made. Through a three-step process – audit, diagnosis, and implementation planning – we help businesses assess their readiness and develop scalable strategies using AI technologies. Whether it’s expanding operations, launching new products, or optimizing internal workflows, our support is grounded in measurable outcomes and agile execution.
3. Developing Digital Communication Strategies
In a world increasingly defined by virtual interactions, digital communication is critical. We support companies in designing:
- Customized digital marketing strategies
- Social media campaigns
- Email and newsletter marketing
- Educational video content
- Influencer-led outreach
Our advisors work directly with each company to align communication tools with business goals, making sure their message cuts through the noise and reaches the right audience, on the right platforms.
A Unique, Multilayered Ecosystem
What makes WAMA EDIH exceptional is the depth and synergy of the consortium. It is led by the Coalition for Polish Innovations, with partners from across the innovation spectrum – legal, technological, academic, and economic development agencies.
The ecosystem model covers the entire value chain:
- Initial diagnostics through digital maturity audits
- Knowledge-building through networking, training, and workshops
- Prototyping and validation with the support of research institutions
- Large-scale investment readiness, backed by entities such as the Warmia-Masuria Special Economic Zone
This layered support ensures that businesses don’t just survive the digital transition – they thrive in it.
Why It Matters
The WAMA EDIH project is more than a digitalization program. It is a platform for twin transition – combining digital growth with environmental responsibility. In line with Europe’s climate neutrality goals for 2050, the initiative emphasizes energy efficiency, circular economy models, and the development of green digital solutions.
GAIA’s involvement in this program directly reflects our core values: fostering responsible, inclusive technology that serves both people and the planet. By supporting companies through innovation and ethics, we help build a future where no one is left behind in the digital revolution.
Funded and Endorsed
The WAMA EDIH project is co-financed by:
- The European Union through the Digital Europe Programme
- The Polish Ministry of Funds and Regional Policy through the European Funds for a Modern Economy (FENG) program
Total eligible expenditure: 21,293,726 PLN
EU Co-financing: €2,257,125.95
FENG Co-financing: 10,646,863 PLN
A Call to Action
If you’re exploring how to responsibly integrate AI, enhance your digital communication, or scale your business using cutting-edge technologies – WAMA EDIH is here for you.
And if you’re a partner, policymaker, or investor, we invite you to join us in shaping the next chapter of Poland’s digital transformation – one that’s local, scalable, and rooted in ethical tech.
Discover more. Connect with us. Let’s build a smarter, greener future – together.
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the Digital Europe Programme.
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