Test before you invest: Innovation hubs accelerate transformation in Pernik

Innovation hubs and intrapreneurship are important elements for the development of competitive companies. In addition to providing opportunities for the creation of new business models, they can also be a driving force for the economic and technological transformation of cities like Pernik, which are going through the coal transition.

This was the conclusion made by Hristian Daskalov, Chairman of the Digital Innovation Hub "Trakia". He participated in the seminar "Opportunities for Entrepreneurship in Pernik", organized by Brand Media Bulgaria within the framework of the European project TOP JOBS, in partnership with the Municipality of Pernik.

Innovation hubs – test before you invest

Daskalov shared that over 150 such hubs operate in Europe, providing free services and expert assistance to small and medium-sized enterprises. The main idea behind these centers is the "test before invest" model, which allows entrepreneurs to try out their ideas and technologies before investing more substantial financial resources.

With the help of these hubs, companies can benefit from free consultations and implementation of innovations with financing of up to 200 thousand euros over a period of three years," said Daskalov, emphasizing the importance of this approach for reducing risk when investing in new projects.

The Digital Innovation Hub Trakia gathers about 100 leading companies from various fields. Potential ideas are discussed, directed, and consulted there so that they can be implemented in the best possible way. Daskalov shared that startup companies or people with business ideas can receive funding from any hub across Europe, as long as they meet the conditions. So far, the hub has served about 50 clients.

This model is particularly valuable for regions like Pernik, where local businesses can thrive through innovative services related to digitalization and automation of work processes. The innovation hubs bridge the traditional economy and new technological solutions, providing entrepreneurs with the necessary support to navigate the dynamic market.

The innovation hubs are co-financed by the "Research, Innovation and Digitalization for Smart Transformation" program.

Intrapreneurship

In addition to the emphasis on innovation hubs, Daskalov drew attention to the concept of intrapreneurship – the ability to implement innovative projects and ideas within established institutions and companies.

Intrapreneurship allows people to navigate complex corporate or institutional environments by applying the entrepreneurial spirit to develop new services and products,” he explained.

According to him, even in traditional organizations, there is an opportunity for significant innovation if the creativity and initiative of employees are encouraged and supported.

Daskalov shared his experience working at the National Student Dormitory, an entirely self-sufficient institution that, thanks to Daskalov, has generated significant investments for renovation and development. This experience taught him how to integrate entrepreneurial principles into everyday work, whether in a government or corporate environment.

The combination of innovation hubs and intrapreneurship offers a unique opportunity for Pernik's digital transformation. While hubs provide the platform for testing and implementing new technologies, intrapreneurship ensures that these ideas can be successfully integrated into the work of existing companies and institutions. 

Co-Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the Managing Authority. Neither the European Union nor the Managing Authority can be held responsible for them.

Translated by Tzvetozar Vincent Iolov