On July 1st, Sweden and the Inotek Foundation from Cahul signed a grant agreement worth 15.5 million Swedish kronor (1.3 million euros) aimed at funding development activities in the southern region of the Republic of Moldova through the Inotek – EU Innovation Centre Cahul hub. The project, titled "Inotek4Cahul," will be conducted over a three-year period.

"Today, we are proud to sign this grant agreement of 15.5 million Swedish kronor with the Inotek Foundation, marking a significant step towards promoting the digital economy and innovation in southern Moldova. This partnership not only aligns with Moldova's strategic priorities in digital transformation and education but also strengthens our commitment to inclusive economic development and European integration. Together, we will build a brighter and more innovative future for the region," stated Her Excellency Katarina Fried, Ambassador of Sweden to Moldova.

The "Inotek4Cahul" project aims to contribute to the development of the southern region by increasing the population's access to STEM education, raising interest in IT careers, providing learning and funding opportunities for entrepreneurs, organizing quality community events, and promoting an entrepreneurial culture among the region's residents.

Innovative Educational Programs to Develop Digital Skills and Reduce Gender Disparities

Through planned actions and initiatives, the "Inotek4Cahul" project will significantly contribute to stimulating economic growth and innovation in the region. Empowering target groups in the southern region with essential digital skills and creating an innovative educational environment are major priorities set within the project. Through educational programs and targeted actions, the project will help equip children with STEM skills, laying the foundations for success in the digital era. Teachers will benefit from appropriate tools and training to enhance their skills in teaching IT subjects, creating a more effective learning environment. Furthermore, there will be a focus on reducing gender disparities by empowering girls and women to fully participate in the digital economy. Adults will also benefit from digital skills training programs, ensuring they acquire advanced skills in using various software and digital tools.

Digital Solutions for Entrepreneurs: Improving Business Efficiency and Access to New Opportunities

Promoting digital transformation to increase competitiveness and ensure the long-term sustainability of businesses is one of the priority action areas of "Inotek4Cahul." Within the project, entrepreneurs in the southern region will be able to leverage assistance and guidance in integrating digital solutions into their businesses, allowing them to improve efficiency, access new markets, and discover growth opportunities. Integrating digital technologies into business strategies will open new market opportunities and stimulate innovation by creating new products and services tailored to current consumer demands. Moreover, digital transformation efforts will contribute to building a strong online presence, enhancing the brand's reputation and influence in today's globalized digital environment.

Simultaneously, talented young people will be able to explore and benefit from support in developing the necessary skills, gaining access to relevant connections and expertise in launching and managing businesses in the technology sector. These initiatives will significantly contribute to strengthening the entrepreneurial landscape and promoting innovation in the region.

Strengthening the Capacities of the Inotek Team for Efficient Management of the Inotek - EU Innovation Centre Cahul

The "Inotek4Cahul" project will play a crucial role in strengthening the capacities of the team for the efficient management of the Inotek - EU Innovation Centre Cahul. Through its initiatives, the project will significantly support and amplify the role and impact of the centre in the development of the southern region. The dedicated team will benefit from advanced training and professional development programs, ensuring competent and results-oriented management of the centre's activities. The implementation of efficient programs will stimulate innovation and create a robust platform for collaboration and knowledge exchange between various sectors. Additionally, the project will focus on optimizing operational mechanisms, ensuring the flawless operation of the centre and facilitating local community access to the resources and opportunities offered by the Inotek - EU Innovation Centre Cahul.

Inotek – A Key Pillar in Transforming Southern Moldova

Inotek was created with the support of the "EU4Moldova: Startup City Cahul" project, funded by the European Union and Sweden and implemented by the National Association of ICT Companies (ATIC). Inotek is a non-commercial organization founded by the "Bogdan Petriceicu Hasdeu" State University of Cahul in December 2024.

Inotek aims to catalyze development and progress in the southern region of the Republic of Moldova by leveraging and strengthening the potential of the digital economy, increasing the competitiveness of the regional business and investment environment, and facilitating partnerships for innovation and entrepreneurship between the private, public, and educational sectors. By prioritizing STEM education and supporting entrepreneurship, Inotek aims to transform the region into a reference technology hub, contributing to the sustainable economic and social development of the country.

Over 3,000 people from the region, of whom 51% are girls and women, benefited from the 55 initiatives carried out under the Inotek umbrella in the first year of activity, with the support of development partners, taking advantage of important opportunities for learning, personal development, career guidance, business development, experience exchange, and valuable networking.

Additionally, 400 children, young people, and adults from the region developed digital skills or acquired specific competencies for new career directions within the 10 educational and training programs carried out by Inotek. 1,000 young people participated in various IT career orientation initiatives and events organized by Inotek in partnership with the National Association of ICT Companies.

Inotek places a special emphasis on creating a solid network that encourages the exchange of ideas, strategic partnerships, and mentorship. The centre has successfully created and consolidated a community of 1,000 active members, of whom 51% are girls and women, and successfully organized 45 community and entrepreneurial events. The 15 strategic partnerships concluded by Inotek have served as a basis for synergizing efforts and amplifying collaboration with local public authorities, the private sector, the associative environment, and other important entities supporting regional development.