Digital transformation is already reshaping how businesses operate. While some companies are just starting their digital journey, more and more traditional businesses are showing interest in moving beyond the basics and adopting more advanced digital solutions.
To support this progress, government-backed initiatives like the European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs) are available to help. The National Network of EDIHs is part of the European Commission’s Digital Europe Programme, with four hubs now operational in Ireland:
– CeADAR (UCD) – Helps businesses explore, adopt, and scale AI
– Data2Sustain (ATU Sligo) – Drives data-led digital innovation
– ENTIRE (Tyndall, Cork) – Focuses on IoT and smart sensors
– FactoryxChange (IMR) – Connects SMEs with advanced digital tools and expertise
These hubs act as “one-stop shops,” offering free or subsidised access to digital technologies, expert advice, and testing. The programme is managed by Enterprise Ireland on behalf of the
Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment.
These hubs are particularly valuable for non-tech businesses, offering practical support to adopt and scale digital tools. Many SMEs already using digital are now turning to EDIHs to go further and they’re seeing real results across sectors like maintenance, retail, and manufacturing.
One such business, Cork City based Profix Maintenance Services, partnered with CeADAR, Ireland’s National Centre for AI, through the European Digital Innovation Hub (EDIH) Test Before Invest service, to automate their quotation process. Guided by the EDIH team, the prototype, developed by data scientist Ajith Vernekar, integrates job and hours data from Google Sheets and combines it with SortMyBooks Online. Using Large Language Model (LLM) technology, it transforms raw job information into accurate, ready-to-send customer quotes. This project demonstrates how AI can reduce manual effort, improve accuracy, and speed up operations for SMEs in the construction and maintenance sector. Through active engagement with industry, Programme Manager Laura Plunkett works closely with SMEs to help them access the most relevant and fully funded EDIH supports for their digital transition. Stephen Hartnett, Managing Director of Profix Maintenance Services, reflects on the impact of their recent AI collaboration with CeADAR: “Our collaboration with CeADAR has shown just how far technology can take us. Digital adoption keeps delivering new benefits, AI alone has helped us cut processing times by 90%, transforming efficiency and productivity across our admin workflows.” While Profix demonstrates how digital innovation can streamline operations in the maintenance sector, other businesses are using EDIH support to tackle different challenges.
Kernan’s Retail Group, a family-run network of convenience stores and forecourts in the Northwest, worked with Data2Sustain EDIH and Atlantic Technological University (ATU) to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance procurement across multiple sites. The project focused on digitising manual tasks, enabling real-time monitoring, and capturing data to optimise costs, sustainability, and compliance showing how targeted digital investments can build resilience in retail. Director JP Gorman shares the impact of their digital journey: “Working with the Data2Sustain team showed how data and other technologies can be harnessed to drive operational improvement and progress smart retail solutions. We’re now more innovative, asking what technology can do to make processes more efficient while enhancing customer experience. Highly recommend that other businesses tap into these resources.”
Elsewhere in manufacturing, companies are using digital tools to improve internal processes and delivery performance.
Advanced Technical Concepts, based in Shannon, provides modular build, fabrication, and engineering solutions. To strengthen how the business manages production and delivery, it partnered with FactoryxChange digital strategist Sandeep Joshi (TUS IDEAM). The focus was on using real-time data to make faster decisions and improve flow between design, production, and sales. Within six months, delayed production orders were cut by half, visibly improving performance and teamwork. Managing Director Marie Clifford explains: “The project didn’t just improve systems; it changed how we think.” By combining Lean principles with digital tools, Advanced Technical Concepts has built a stronger foundation for operational excellence, one that delivers measurable value and reliability for every customer project.
EDIHs don’t work exclusively with traditional SMEs but these businesses often benefit greatly. The examples shared show how traditional companies, are achieving measurable outcomes by embracing digital. For traditional businesses, EDIHs offer a low-risk route to explore and apply new technologies in practical ways.
Every so often, big shifts reshape how business is done and advanced digital adoption is one of them. For traditional businesses aiming to stay competitive, it’s not something to overlook. Wherever you are in your journey, the EDIH network is ready to help. Get in touch with your EDIH to explore how tailored support can advance your use of digital tools and help your business stay competitive.
For further information visit www.leanbpi.ie
JOHN O`SHANAHAN
Consultant, LeanBPI
