By addressing the pressing challenges of digitization, production optimization, and sustainability, IGNITE-LDR bridges the gap between well-established innovation hubs in more developed regions and the needs of manufacturing SMEs in LDRs.

The project is built on a foundation of proven tools and solutions, including AGORA for innovation networking, F6S for funding discovery, and RAMP Marketplace for business collaboration and fast technology deployment, which lower the barrier of adoption of advanced technology for new interested Manufacturing SMEs.

These are further enhanced by a network of testbeds and regional hubs to ensure accessibility in their regions and tangible impact to the regional SMEs. Through tailored open call and pilot demonstrators, IGNITE-LDR fosters regional innovation and cooperations and scales up technology readiness levels (TRLs) from 6/7 to 8/9, equipping SMEs with practical solutions to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and adopt circular economy practices.

With a consortium of 23 partners spanning 14 countries, including 9 LDRs (Greece, Croatia, Romania, Poland, Slovenia, Bulgaria,
Hungary, Latvia, Portugal), IGNITE-LDR focuses on knowledge transfer, technology validation, and ecosystem strengthening. The
project delivers cutting-edge solutions such as intelligent process orchestration, cloud tools, and robotic automation while fostering
training and upskilling through dedicated courses and workshops with a specific focus on gender balance. The proposal addresses AI ethics with a comprehensive approach that ensures fairness, transparency, accountability, and inclusivity, building trust in the technologies being developed. 

The project is funded by the Interregional Innovation Investment Instrument (European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) (2021/2027).

 Its total value is EUR 9,768,309.52, of which EUR 138,254.95 is allocated to Enter Koprivnica. Project duration: 1 December 2025 – 30 November 2028."