On 9–10 June 2026, the EDIH Summit 2026: Strengthening the AI Innovation Ecosystem took place in Brussels (Belgium). It is one of the key European events dedicated to the development of the European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIH) network, the implementation of artificial intelligence technologies, and the strengthening of cooperation between innovation ecosystems across the European Union.
The first day of the EDIH Summit 2026 was dedicated to the strategic vision for the development of the European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIH) network in the new phase of Europe’s digital transformation, where artificial intelligence plays a central role.
Clotex-HUB and Khmelnytskyi National University were represented at the event by project coordinator Oksana Zakharkevych and project manager Yuliia Koshevko.
The event was opened by a welcome address from Henna Virkkunen, Executive Vice-President of the European Commission and Commissioner for Technological Sovereignty, Security and Democracy. In her speech, she emphasised the importance of building a unified European artificial intelligence ecosystem that ensures the competitiveness of the European economy and supports digital transformation across all sectors.
Subsequent presentations by representatives of DG CNECT outlined a new stage in the EDIH network's development. While previously the main focus of the hubs was supporting enterprise digitalisation, today the emphasis is shifting toward scaling AI-based solutions, developing specialised AI support services, and integrating EDIHs with new European initiatives such as AI Factories and Testing and Experimentation Facilities (TEFs).
One of the central highlights of the day was the keynote speech “The Future of AI”, dedicated to the long-term development of artificial intelligence. The discussion emphasised the transition from experimental AI use to large-scale implementation in industry, public administration, education, and services. Experts noted that in the coming years, regional competitiveness will largely depend on the ability to integrate AI technologies into everyday business processes.
During parallel sessions, significant attention was paid to shaping European artificial intelligence policy. Representatives of the European Commission, OECD, and professional associations discussed practical mechanisms for implementing the AI Act, preparing enterprises for new regulatory requirements, and the role of EDIHs in supporting safe and responsible AI adoption.
A key event on the second day of the EDIH Summit 2026 was Workshop #8: “New EDIH Frontiers: From Capabilities to Collaboration in Associated Countries”, dedicated to developing digital innovation hubs in partner countries and expanding international cooperation within the European innovation ecosystem.
The workshop brought together representatives of the European Commission, HaDEA, international development organisations, and EDIH coordinators from Ukraine, Moldova, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Hungary, and other countries actively integrating into the European digital space. The main focus was on how digital innovation hubs can expand their capabilities, build international partnerships, and ensure enterprises' access to advanced digital technologies and AI services.
A special highlight of the workshop was the presentation by Clotex-HUB coordinator Oksana Zakharkevych, who showcased the Ukrainian experience in developing digital innovation services. The presentation highlighted the activities of Clotex-HUB, its contribution to supporting digital transformation in the textile, garment, and related industries, as well as practical results achieved with small and medium-sized enterprises in Ukraine.
Participants emphasised the need for further involvement of Ukrainian organisations in international projects, knowledge exchange programs, and joint initiatives in digitalisation and artificial intelligence.
The knowledge gained during the workshop and the contacts established will contribute to the further development of Clotex-HUB services, the expansion of international cooperation of Khmelnytskyi National University, and the implementation of new opportunities to support the digital transformation of Ukrainian enterprises.
The summit demonstrated that the next stage of the European Digital Innovation Hubs network will be closely linked to the deployment of artificial intelligence, digital skills development, and new mechanisms of international cooperation. For Khmelnytskyi National University, participation in such events is an important opportunity to contribute to the European innovation space and implement best practices for supporting digital transformation in Ukraine.
A significant part of the summit focused on extensive networking and professional exchanges. Numerous meetings were held with representatives of European Digital Innovation Hubs, research institutions, and innovation support organisations, focusing on future cooperation, knowledge exchange, and joint international projects.
The insights and contacts gained at the summit are highly valuable for the further development of Clotex-HUB activities. In particular, European partners’ experience will be used to improve services for assessing digital maturity of enterprises, consulting on AI implementation, conducting training activities, and supporting the digital transformation of textile, garment, and related industries.
Participation in the EDIH Summit 2026 confirms Clotex-HUB's active integration into the European digital innovation network and contributes to strengthening international cooperation in digitalisation, innovation, and the development of artificial intelligence.