Inotek – EU Innovation Centre Cahul, a hub supported by the European Union and Sweden, dedicated to promoting innovation and digitalization in the southern region of the Republic of Moldova, celebrates a year of significant activities and achievements on May 17th. By prioritizing STEM education and supporting entrepreneurship, Inotek aims to transform the region into a leading technology hub, contributing to the sustainable economic and social development of the country.

Over 3000 people from the region, 51% of whom are girls and women, have benefited from the 55 initiatives carried out under the Inotek umbrella in its first year of activity, taking advantage of important opportunities for learning, personal development, career orientation, business development, experience exchange, and establishing valuable connections.

The Inotek Center was launched on May 17, 2023, with the support of the European Union and Sweden within the 'EU4Moldova: Startup City Cahul' Project, implemented by the National Association of ICT Companies. The center was established in partnership with the 'Bogdan Petriceicu Hasdeu' State University in Cahul. In its first phase, Inotek represents a modern and friendly space designed to provide access to the latest technologies, digital tools, relevant training and education programs, entrepreneurship support initiatives, and business development.

Ana Chirița, Director of Strategic Projects, National Association of ICT Companies: 'Through its initiatives and programs, Inotek significantly facilitates access to quality STEM education, entrepreneurship and technology support, and opens doors to collaborations between the private sector, public sector, and educational institutions. With the support of the "EU4Moldova: Startup City Cahul" Project, and international and local partners, Inotek has become a significant pillar in the transformation of the southern region of Moldova and an innovation and technology development hub, demonstrating the power of close connections between education, industry, and community for common progress.'

Strengthening the entrepreneurial ecosystem and providing digital transformation opportunities

In its first year of operation, Inotek has been an active partner in developing the entrepreneurial ecosystem in the southern region, organizing hackathons and monthly community events. During the monthly community events, regional entrepreneurs have the opportunity to benefit from an effective transfer of knowledge and expertise in diverse fields, including business development, attracting investments, export preparation, digital transformation, etc. Over 1000 people participated in Inotek's community events organized between May 2023 and May 2024.

Developing and leveraging human capital in the Southern region

Inotek considers human capital development a fundamental premise for regional growth and development, being one of the main pillars that determine economic efficiency, adaptability, and innovation in a region. Over 400 children, youth, and adults from the region have developed digital skills or acquired specific competencies for new career paths through educational and training programs conducted at the Center. A priority activity was also the implementation of the IT Career Promotion Campaign, aimed at informing young people about the opportunities, perspectives, and requirements associated with a career in information technology. Over 1000 young people participated in various IT career orientation initiatives and events organized by Inotek in partnership with the National Association of ICT Companies.

Building a community for innovation and development

The Inotek Center has become an essential platform for connecting community members with various valuable opportunities and resources, thus contributing to the socio-economic development of the southern region of the Republic of Moldova. Inotek places special emphasis on creating a strong network that encourages the exchange of ideas, strategic partnerships, and mentorship. Through organizing events, workshops, and conferences, the Center brings together experts from various fields, aspiring entrepreneurs, and investors, facilitating the dialogue and collaboration vital for innovation and growth.

The transformative initiatives carried out by Inotek have been and continue to be possible thanks to the exceptional support provided by development partners: the European Union, Sweden, the United States Agency for International Development, the United Kingdom, the German Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), the Government of Switzerland, the German International Cooperation Agency (GIZ), SOROS Moldova, the Slovak Agency for International Development Cooperation, EMA – Development and Mobility Agency, and the remarkable involvement of the National Association of ICT Companies, "Bogdan Petriceicu Hasdeu" State University in Cahul, central and local public administration authorities, especially the Municipality of Cahul, the ICT industry, civil society, educational institutions, and the local community.

The consolidation of efforts from partners and community members, the harmonization of objectives and actions, and the strong will to support beneficial transformations represent significant achievements reached under the aegis of Inotek, thus forming a solid basis for launching new important initiatives aimed at regional development. The successes achieved reflect not only the effectiveness of close collaboration between different actors of society but also the common commitment to advance towards a prosperous and innovative future for the entire region.

Join the Inotek community online!

If you want to stay updated with the latest initiatives and progress in technology and innovation in the southern region, we invite you to follow the activity of the Inotek Center through its Facebook page and the official website https://inotek.md. Here you will find updated news, details about upcoming events and planned programs, inspirational and success stories, development and collaboration opportunities.