About the project
EDIH-NWACB is a partnership initiative based on the long-term cooperation between its core partners with regional presence and national importance for the Bulgarian automotive sector.
The project idea is focused on the development of the innovative infrastructure that will support the manufacturing and automotive industry in Bulgaria in its transition towards the implementation of Industry 4.0 principles. The service portfolio will combine the wide scope of topics that will lead to elevation of the skills of the workforce in the sector, increased capacity for the SMEs and improved standardisation of the processes for a better, more sustainable manufacturing. The innovative infrastructure will allow empirical studies to be carried out, test environments to be generated as well as the ability to train students on the use of digital automation solutions in the industry and practical exercises with cooperative robots, as well as “test before invest” (TBI) with the latest cutting-edge software and hardware.
The final goal is to position EDIH as a trusty and reliability as a key supporter and enhancer of the digitalization of the Automotive industry on a national and EU scale through the provision of various services and events. In addition, EDIH is to ensure the support and engagement of all key stakeholders for adopting, utilizing and improving the EDIH services with the aim of enhancing its impact to boost Industry 4.0. growth.
Partners
News
26.02.2026
The Automotive and Defense Industries with a Shared Focus: Autonomous Systems
17.02.2026
Training: Cost Reduction through Elimination of Production Losses
17.02.2026
Безплатни обучения за дигитализация и иновации: Какво е de minimis?
Events
Start Date: 25.03.2026 at 00:00
End Date: 25.03.2026 at 23:59
Training: Cybersecurity in Digital Manufacturing
The training is free of charge upon completion of de minimis documentation
Trainings are suitable only for micro-enterprises, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), large enterprises, mid-cap enterprises, as well as public organizations.
Focus:
Protection of digitalized production environments and reduction of cybersecurity risks in industrial settings, including practical guidance for compliance with the NIS2 Directive.
Date: 25.03
Location: Sofia Tech Park
Registration link: Киберсигурност в дигиталното производство : Automotive & Mobility EDIH Bulgaria
Key Topics :
Business context of digital transformation in manufacturing
Main cyber threats and attacks in industrial environments
Impact of cyber incidents on production and operations
Organizational and technical prevention measures
Incident response and recovery strategies
NIS2 Directive — processes and technological compliance measures
What You Will Learn
After the training, participants will be able to:
✔ Identify and assess cybersecurity risks in digital manufacturing
✔ Evaluate business impact of cyber incidents
✔ Apply key technical and organizational risk-reduction measures
✔ Implement essential incident response planning elements
✔ Understand and apply NIS2 compliance requirements
Format
Presentations · Open discussions · Real IT audit examples · Corrective measures analysis
Who should attend ?
IT engineers · Network administrators · System administrators · Operational managers
The training is suitable for SMEs, large enterprises, mid-caps, and public organizations.
Lecturer: Kliment Yanev
System Architect for Network and Information Security at Novatel Ltd., holding CCIE Security and CompTIA CySA+ certifications.
He has extensive experience in designing and implementing secure network architectures, including segmentation, access control, resilient infrastructure, and deployment of NGFW, IPS, WAF, SIEM, and EDR/XDR solutions, with a strong focus on incident detection, response, and operational risk reduction.
To register for the event:
Start Date: 05.03.2026 at 00:00
End Date: 06.03.2026 at 23:59
Training: Cost Reduction through Elimination of Production Losses
⚠️ Update: The training date has been changed.
The training is free of charge upon completion of de minimis documentation
Trainings are suitable only for micro-enterprises, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), large enterprises, mid-cap enterprises, as well as public organizations.
Focus:
How companies can create more value without overload and chaos starting from the next working day
Date: 05.03 – 06.03
Location: Sofia Tech Park
Registration link: Намаляване на себестойността чрез елиминиране на загубите в производството : Automotive & Mobility EDIH Bulgaria
Programme:
Lean Thinking Mindset – how to “see” invisible losses and distinguish value from activity
The 7 Main Types of Waste (Muda) – analysis and solution development
Gemba-based Analysis – working with real processes, facts before opinions, the role of leadership
Capacity without Overload (Muri & Mura) – why “faster” often means more waste
Standard Work – creating standards as a foundation for Kaizen
Reflection and Experiential Learning – AAR, individual and team reflection
AI in Lean Manufacturing – AI as a Sensei rather than a “boss”, practical examples and risks
What You Will Learn
✔ Ability to identify waste in real time
✔ Practical analysis of your own process
✔ Developed standard and improvement plan
✔ Practical concept of AI in a Lean environment
Format
Short lectures · real case studies · practical exercises · discussions · reflection
The training is suitable for: managers, team leaders, planning experts, accountants, finance specialists, shift supervisors.
Lecturer: Eng. Vladi Velikov
An expert with over 20 years of practical experience in process optimisation, Lean methodologies, and information security, focusing on improving operational efficiency and implementing modern technologies in business.
He works directly with real production and business processes – analysing workflows, identifying losses, and supporting teams in developing sustainable and effective solutions. In his practice, he applies Lean and systems thinking combined with modern technological approaches, including the use of artificial intelligence in operational environments.
He is a lecturer at professional events and training programmes, sharing practical examples and applicable tools focused on real improvements rather than theoretical models.
Implemented projects include: Siemens, Festo, Witte Automotive, Melexis, ING, TWS, Husqvarna, Econt, and many others.
To register for the event:
Start Date: 25.02.2026 at 09:00
End Date: 25.02.2026 at 13:00
Innovation’s Day: Autonomous Systems & Defence
Automotive and Mobility EDIH are pleased to invite you to a free event on:
Innovation’s Day: Autonomous Systems & Defence
The event will be held in Bulgarian
🗓 Date: 25.02
⏰Time: 09:00-13:30
🔗 Registration link:
Innovations Day – Autonomous Systems & Defense · Luma
On February 25, 2026, Sofia Tech Park – The Venue Hall, Incubator will host Innovations Day: Autonomous Systems & Defense, an expert-level event dedicated to the advancement of autonomous unmanned systems, artificial intelligence, and airspace protection technologies.
The forum will bring together approximately 50 carefully selected participants, including security and defense experts, engineers, industry representatives, and members of the innovation ecosystem.
Leading Experts from the Technology and Defense Ecosystem
Throughout the event, prominent speakers from Bulgaria’s technology and defense sectors will present cutting-edge solutions and real-world applications in autonomous systems and security.
Among the speakers:
Tihomir Nedev, Co-founder and CEO of Fadron, will discuss the role of artificial intelligence and edge computing in achieving full autonomy in unmanned platforms.
Ivo Karaneshev, Autonomous Systems Control Engineer at Grand Tour Tech, will present integrated Counter-UAS solutions for airspace protection, with a focus on civilian applications.
AI-powered drone technologies and intelligent security systems will be explored by Ivan Ivanov, Software Architect, CEO, and Co-founder of Autonomous Monitoring Systems.
Dimitar Nedov, CTO and Co-founder of SpearX, will showcase solutions for countermeasure systems and the protection of critical infrastructure and defense assets. He will demonstrate how autonomous drone platforms equipped with integrated Edge AI and computer vision enable real-time threat detection, monitoring, and protection of strategic facilities.
A regulatory perspective on dual-use technologies and related challenges will be presented by Tomas Dimitrov, Deputy Executive Director at Logos and expert in European space policy, defense, and security.
Format and Focus
The event format is designed to encourage in-depth discussions, practical insights, and direct exchange between speakers and participants.
Start time: 09:00 AM
Organizer
The event is organized by Automotive & Mobility EDIH Bulgaria, a European Digital Innovation Hub supporting the digital transformation of the automotive and manufacturing sectors through Industry 4.0 technologies, artificial intelligence, and sustainable innovation.
EDIH NWACB represents a partnership initiative based on long-term cooperation with leading organizations from the region and nationally significant partners who work on the development and digital transformation of the automotive and manufacturing sector in Bulgaria.
To register for the event:
Start Date: 12.02.2026 at 10:00
End Date: 12.02.2026 at 11:00
AI assistants in HR: from the first interview to daily communication
Automotive Cluster Bulgaria, on behalf of Konica Minolta Bulgaria, invites you to an online webinar dedicated to the practical application of AI assistants in HR processes.
📅 Date: February 12
⏲️ Time: 10:00 a.m.
Online, GoTo Webinar
The webinar will be held in Bulgarian
In the context of staff shortages, dynamic teams, and high efficiency requirements, HR processes in manufacturing and engineering organizations are under serious pressure. During the webinar, real-life examples will be presented of how AI assistants can support HR and management teams in their daily work.
Among the topics that will be covered:
-initial screening of candidates through an AI voice assistant,
-onboarding new employees via chat or voice assistant,
-conducting training and instruction with clarity, consistency, and traceability.
It will also be shown how these AI solutions fit into a broader digital HR framework, including electronic employment records and leave management.
👤 Lecturer:
Dimitar Sotirov
IT Solutions Team Leader, Konica Minolta Bulgaria
The webinar is suitable for HR managers, recruitment specialists, operations and plant managers, as well as team leaders in manufacturing and engineering organizations.
🔗 Registration : register.gotowebinar.com/#register/4873768261887805783?source=automotive+cluster
To register for the event:
Start Date: 28.01.2026 at 15:00
End Date: 28.01.2026 at 16:00
Innovation’s Day: Webinar AI & Industrial Automation
Automotive and Mobility EDIH are pleased to invite you to a free webinar on:
“AI and Industrial Process Automation: A Practical Implementation Framework”
🗓 Date: 28.01
⏰Time: 15:00
The webinar is highly practical, with a strong focus on the following key topics:
- Selecting the right AI use case: How to identify processes with the highest potential for automation and fast return on investment (ROI).
- Data as the foundation: What data is required, where it comes from (ERP, MES, IoT), and how to ensure its quality.
- Implementation methodology: The journey from Proof of Concept (PoC), through a pilot project, to full-scale deployment across the organization.
- Measuring success: Key metrics and performance indicators (KPIs) to evaluate the impact of implemented AI solutions.
- Preventing failure: Analysis of common pitfalls in industrial automation and how to avoid them.
- Case studies: Review of real-world automation scenarios and their measurable business outcomes.
Speakers:
Radoslav Geshev – 15+ years of experience in technology, with a focus on AI strategy, business process automation, and digital transformation.
Specialized in the development and implementation of AI solutions that optimize operations and accelerate company growth.
Has led numerous successful projects, with expertise in turning strategic visions into measurable results through intelligent automation.
Toma Tomov – 10+ years of experience in technology, with the last 2 years fully focused on AI automation and the implementation of intelligent business solutions.
Specializes in AI integrations, process automation, and transforming traditional operations through artificial intelligence.
Leads projects achieving up to 70% reduction in manual work and 30–50% cost savings. Holds 5+ AI certifications and works with OpenAI, Claude, Gemini, and leading automation platforms.
🔗 Registration link:
https://forms.gle/TRAG43U3Af3tMp438
📩 After registration, you will receive a confirmation email with the link to join the online meeting.
EDIH NWACB represents a partnership initiative based on long-term cooperation with leading organizations from the region and nationally significant partners who work on the development and digital transformation of the automotive and manufacturing sector in Bulgaria.
To register for the event:
Gallery
The Automotive and Defense Industries with a Shared Focus: Autonomous Systems
Experts from the technology and defense sectors explored the intersections between the automotive and defense industries at Innovations Day: Autonomous Systems & Defense on February 25 at Sofia Tech Park. Organized by Automotive Cluster Bulgaria as project coordinator, together with Grand Tour Technology, the event is part of a project led by Automotive & Mobility EDIH Bulgaria, a European Digital Innovation Hub supporting Industry 4.0, AI, and sustainable innovation. The forum brought together engineers, industry representatives, and security experts, featuring presentations on autonomous unmanned systems, AI-powered drones, airspace protection, and critical infrastructure defense by leading companies including Fadron, Grand Tour Technology, Autonomous Monitoring Systems, and SpearX. Regulatory challenges and dual-use technologies were also discussed. The hub announced free training sessions starting next week on Lean practices and cost reduction, followed by cybersecurity on March 25, with additional workshops planned throughout the year, including on-site sessions at companies. Full information about the event you may find in the News section.
Opening Event of the European Digital Innovation Hub – Northwest Automotive Cluster Bulgaria
The opening event of the European Digital Innovation Hub – Northwest Automotive Cluster Bulgaria was held on June 12, 2025, at the John Atanasoff Innovation Forum in Sofia Tech Park. The event brought together leading experts, industry representatives, and members of the European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs) network to discuss the role of digitalisation, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity in industrial transformation. The programme presented the opportunities available to manufacturing companies, including access to expert support, “test before invest” services, specialised trainings, and free upskilling in areas such as industrial automation, digital manufacturing, and engineering software. Participants were also introduced to advisory services for business planning, innovation strategies, and preparation of projects for European funding. The initiative, coordinated by Automotive Cluster Bulgaria in partnership with national and academic organisations, aims to support the transition of the Bulgarian manufacturing industry towards Industry 4.0 by providing comprehensive, fully funded services that enhance competitiveness, innovation, and sustainable growth.
Services
Price list of the trainings and services offered by the European Digital Innovation Hub Northwest at the Automotive Cluster Bulgaria:
The implementation of project BG16RFPR002-1.002-0010 aims to establish infrastructure and training programs for building capacity in high-performance computing, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, advanced digital skills, and more. The hub will facilitate access to the network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs) and will promote digital and green transformation within the automotive sector in Bulgaria and across Europe.