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
22.05.2026
Selection of Contractor under Project No. BG16RFPR002-1.002-0010-C01 for airline tickets and hotel accommodation
29.04.2026
Selection of Contractor under Project No. BG16RFPR002-1.002-0010-C01 for organization of events
08.04.2026
Selection of Contractor under Project No. BG16RFPR002-1.002-0010-C01 for didactic training stands
26.03.2026
Sucessfully Completed Training on Cybersecurity in Digital Manufacturing
24.03.2026
Training: Claude AI in Management: Based on AI Fluency: Framework & Foundations (Anthropic)
24.03.2026
Training: From Idea to Model: Modern 3D CAD Design and First Steps in CAM
Events
Start Date: 20.05.2026 at 00:00
End Date: 20.05.2026 at 23:59
Automotive Forum Bulgaria 2026 – EDIH event DAY 2
Automotive Forum (20 May 2026)
📅 Date: 21 May 2026
📍 Location: Sofia Tech Park, John Atanassoff Innovation Forum
The second day, part of the Automotive Forum 2026, is dedicated to digital transformation and innovation in the automotive industry, with a focus on the role of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs).
Sessions will explore how Digital Innovation Hubs support companies in adopting advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence and Industry 4.0 solutions. Participants will gain practical insights into digitalization, innovation support services, and collaborative ecosystems.
The program is focused on knowledge exchange, expert insights, and interactive discussions, without an exhibition component.
Participants will also have the opportunity to connect with international DIHs and experts from across Europe, fostering cross-border collaboration and knowledge exchange.
Participation is free of charge.
To register for the event:
Start Date: 28.04.2026 at 10:00
End Date: 28.04.2026 at 11:00
Webinar Dedicated to the New Directive (EU) 2023/970 on Pay Transparency and Equal Pay for Women and Men
Register here: https://forms.gle/uz8EtgR8STY4NYbTA
We are pleased to invite you to a free webinar dedicated to the new Directive (EU) 2023/970 on pay transparency and equal pay for women and men, adopted by the European Parliament and the Council on May 10, 2023.
This webinar is part of our regular HR webinar series, organized for our HR community.
Main topics of the webinar:
- Key requirements of the Pay Transparency and Equal Pay Directive
- Employers’ obligations regarding pay transparency and annual reporting
- How to identify and assess pay inequalities within your organization
- Corrective measures and protection of employees against discrimination
- Deadlines for transposition and subsequent compliance
- Transparency and accountability
- Sanctions and supervision
Date: April 28, 2026
Time: 10:00 – 11:00
Speakers:
Attorney Yordan Cholakov and Attorney Desislava Dimitrova – Dimitrova, Cholakov and Partners Law Firm. The speakers are respected professionals with extensive experience in labor and corporate law, actively working on the implementation of European legislation into Bulgarian law.
Dimitrova, Cholakov and Partners has significant experience in delivering legal trainings in areas such as data protection, whistleblowing, the new Pay Transparency Directive, and its upcoming implementation into national legislation.
To register for the event:
Start Date: 23.04.2026 at 00:00
End Date: 24.04.2026 at 23:59
Training: Claude AI in Management: Based on AI Fluency: Framework & Foundations (Anthropic)
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:
Application of Claude AI in management practice, development of AI fluency, and effective use of the 4D framework (Delegation, Description, Discernment, Diligence).
Date: 23.04-24.04.2026
Location: Sofia Tech Park (Incubator Building)
Registration link: Claude AI в мениджмънта: Базиран на AI Fluency: Framework & Foundations (Anthropic) : Automotive & Mobility EDIH Bulgaria
Key Topics :
The program covers the role of the design engineer in today’s industry, the fundamentals of CAD and PLM systems, and the importance of 3D modeling in product development. Participants will learn how to create parts, assemblies, and technical documentation, as well as understand the interaction between CAD and CAM.
What You Will Learn
After completing the training, participants will be able to effectively use Claude AI in management scenarios, apply the 4D framework in daily work, delegate and evaluate AI-generated outputs, create structured prompts, and integrate AI into their workflows through practical use cases.
Format
On-site training · Practical exercises · Workshops · Real management scenarios
Participants are required to bring their own laptops.
Who should attend ?
Middle and senior management.
The training is suitable for professionals looking to integrate AI into strategic and operational decision-making.
The training is suitable for SMEs, large enterprises, mid-caps, and public organizations.
Lecturer: Eng. Vladi Velikov
an expert with over 20 years of practical experience in process optimization, Lean methodologies, and information security, with a strong focus on improving operational efficiency and implementing modern technologies in business. He has worked on real-world projects with companies such as Siemens, Festo, WITTE Automotive, Melexis, ING, Husqvarna, and Econt, among others.
To register for the event:
Start Date: 21.04.2026 at 00:00
End Date: 24.04.2026 at 23:59
Training: From Idea to Model: Modern 3D CAD Design and First Steps in CAM
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: 21.04-24.04.2026
Location: Plovdiv (University Campus, Tech Park, 12 Mendeleev Blvd.)
Registration link: Увод в проектирането със съвременни 3D CAD системи. Въведение в CAM. : Automotive & Mobility EDIH Bulgaria
Key Topics :
The program covers the role of the design engineer in today’s industry, the fundamentals of CAD and PLM systems, and the importance of 3D modeling in product development. Participants will learn how to create parts, assemblies, and technical documentation, as well as understand the interaction between CAD and CAM.
What You Will Learn
After completing the training, participants will be able to create 2D sketches and 3D models, design real industrial components, work with assemblies, produce technical drawings, and understand the basics of CAM and CNC programming.
Format
On-site training · Practical exercises · Real-world examples · Mini final project
Who should attend ?
Engineers with no prior experience in CAD.
The training is suitable for beginners looking to build foundational skills in engineering design.
The training is suitable for SMEs, large enterprises, mid-caps, and public organizations.
Lecturer: Georgi Georgiev Komitov
Chief Assistant at the Agricultural University of Plovdiv, with over 20 years of experience in mechanical engineering and technological design. He teaches CAD/CAM systems and leads courses in 3D modeling, assemblies, and technical documentation, combining academic expertise with real industrial experience.
To register for the event:
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: 20.05.2026 at 00:00
End Date: 20.05.2026 at 23:59
Automotive Forum Bulgaria 2026 – DAY 1
Automotive Forum (20 May 2026)
📅 Date: 20 May 2026
📍 Location: Sofia Tech Park, John Atanassoff Innovation Forum
The John Atanassoff Innovation Forum will bring together key stakeholders from Bulgaria’s automotive and technology ecosystem for a day of strategic dialogue, knowledge exchange, and business networking.
The program features panel discussions and expert insights on topics such as smart manufacturing, electrification, artificial intelligence, and the future of mobility. Participants will gain valuable perspectives on current industry developments and emerging opportunities.
In addition to the conference program, attendees will benefit from dedicated networking and B2B opportunities, enabling direct engagement with OEMs, suppliers, and mobility companies.
The exhibition area will be developed in collaboration with DS Smith, featuring sustainably designed stands and integrated recycling solutions, reflecting the event’s commitment to environmental responsibility.
Participation is free of charge.
To register for the event:
Gallery
EDIH Day 2026: Network in Motion – Innovating for Tomorrow
The second day of Automotive Forum Bulgaria 2026, dedicated to the European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIH) ecosystem, brought together experts, innovators, institutions, and technology leaders to discuss digital transformation, AI adoption, smart manufacturing, and the future of innovation ecosystems in Europe. Held on 21 May 2026 at the John Atanasoff Innovation Forum in Sofia Tech Park, the event focused on how EDIHs support companies through innovation services, digital skills, AI integration, cross-border collaboration, and technology adoption. The program featured speakers and experts from across Europe, including representatives from representatives from AI EDIH Hungary, EDIH Südwestfalen, EDIH Zagore, Ventspils High Technology Park (Latvia) and other innovation organizations and EDIH’s working at the intersection of industry, technology, and digital transformation. Among the highlights were discussions on AI adoption for SMEs, smart mobility ecosystems, digital collaboration between EDIHs, skills development, and the growing role of innovation hubs in strengthening regional competitiveness and industrial transformation.
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.