DigiMach | Driving digital transformation for SMEs in machining

Empowering machining SMEs through digital tools and collaboration

The DigiMach project addresses the uneven digitalisation and fragmented expertise in the machining sector across the Meuse-Rhine region. With skilled professionals retiring and critical know-how at risk, regional SMEs face the challenge of maintaining their competitiveness. DigiMach supports them by promoting low-threshold digital tools, practical training, and tailored guidance through pilot projects that demonstrate measurable results.

Context

The machining industry in the Meuse-Rhine region operates in a fast-evolving technological landscape, yet many SMEs remain constrained by legacy systems and limited access to innovation networks. Differences in digital maturity across borders further complicate collaboration and knowledge transfer. While larger companies can often invest in advanced solutions, smaller players struggle to keep pace. DigiMach creates a shared framework to overcome these barriers by connecting regions, aligning efforts, and ensuring that digital solutions are both relevant and within reach for SMEs.

Obectives & results

1. Guide 150 SMEs in the Meuse-Rhine region through their digital journey
2. Build a multilingual online platform with tools, guides, and AI-based functionalities
3. Launch 20 pilot cases showcasing measurable benefits in real-life settings
4. Use AI to optimise processes and preserve industry knowledge
5. Boost regional expertise through cross-border exchange and shared learning

Key results:

1. A digital platform with ready-to-use tools and business cases
2. Demonstrators across the machining value chain
3. Toolkits and guides to support SMEs
4. Custom training modules based on industry needs
5. Knowledge-sharing solutions to counter expertise loss

Approach

The project is structured around five workstreams:

1. Needs assessment and implementation strategy
   Analyse the digital maturity of SMEs and define a roadmap based on real needs.
2. Digital platform for knowledge sharing
   Develop and maintain a modular, multilingual digital platform providing access to tools, knowledge, training, and SME support.
3. Demonstrators and practical use cases: 
   Design, test, and showcase digital tools and applications in realistic settings to inspire and guide the SMEs throughout the region.
4. Pilot implementations in SMEs
   Support selected SMEs in applying digital tools, track results and validate the real-world value of DigiMach innovations.
5. Knowledge transfer and training modules
   Translate project findings into accessible training formats and shareable know-how.
    

Target group

The project mainly targets machining SMEs in the Meuse-Rhine region (Netherlands, Belgium, Germany). Secondary audiences include regional innovation hubs, clusters and technology providers.

Funding

• Funding agency: Interreg Meuse-Rhine (NL-BE-DE)
• Project type: Interreg
• Contract number: IMR6-00126
• Funding level: 50% subsidized by ERDF

Official logo of the project

External links

• Official project page