28DIGITAL: A New Era for Digital Innovation
A fifteen-year journey culminates in a new strategic identity.
In an exciting development, EIT Digital has rebranded itself as 28DIGITAL, marking a significant shift in its mission and vision aimed at leading Europe's digital future.
This transformation has its roots in the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT), which initiated EIT Digital in 2010. Over these years, the organization has flourished, establishing itself as Europe’s largest open innovation ecosystem. With this new identity, 28DIGITAL becomes independent while maintaining collaborative ties with the EIT through a Memorandum of Collaboration.
The growth of 28DIGITAL has been remarkable, with operations spanning 23 offices across Europe and a pivotal global hub in Silicon Valley. Being one of the prominent Knowledge and Innovation Communities of the EIT, the organization has played a crucial role in supporting numerous startups and small to medium enterprises (SMEs). Through its involvement with flagship EU programmes—like Horizon Europe, Interreg, and Digital Europe—28DIGITAL has empowered thousands of students and established a vibrant network that bridges industry, research, investors, and policymakers.
The Pillars of the New Brand: Talent, Tech, Trust
The essence of the new brand is encapsulated in three foundational pillars: Talent, Tech, and Trust. Federico Menna, the CEO of 28DIGITAL, emphasizes that the mission is twofold: to invigorate the growth of deep-tech ventures across Europe and to cultivate the next wave of digital leaders. This rebranding also signals a bold declaration of intent to embrace the ambitious '28th regime', which represents a seamless European framework.
Menna notes, "Our commitment is to foster a digital future that is both competitive and human-centric, firmly rooted in European values. We are excited to lead with this new name and vision. It conveys our pledge to the digital transformation of Europe, aligning closely with the continent's Startup and Scaleup Strategy."
Positioning for Digital Sovereignty
28DIGITAL is uniquely positioned to leverage deep technologies that are redefining essential sectors such as health care, transportation, manufacturing, and energy. The organization’s focus is on strategic technologies that enhance Europe's resilience and assert its global influence, particularly concerning green technologies that promote the dual transitions to a digital and sustainable future.
Highlighting the journey of EIT Digital, Menna expresses pride in how it evolved from being one of the pioneering EIT Communities into a thriving innovation ecosystem. The support they provide to innovators directly correlates with advancements in Europe’s digital landscape. Martin Kern, the EIT Director, articulates enthusiasm for continuing collaboration as they strive for a more innovative and resilient Europe.
Growing Together in a Borderless Framework
With 28DIGITAL’s rebranding, the organization has signaled a renewed focus on the ambition behind its name. The '28th regime' reflects a united Europe, where digital innovation, talent, and entrepreneurship can flourish within a cooperative marketplace. Additionally, the number 28 is infused with mathematical significance, as it is the sum of its divisors, a concept crucial to areas such as cryptography and supercomputing.
28DIGITAL was born from a visionary initiative by the EIT, designed to elevate innovation across Europe through strategic guidance and funding. After receiving considerable backing amounting to €1.1B over 15 years, the organization aims to amplify the impact of digital transformation initiatives both within Europe and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 28DIGITAL focus on?
28DIGITAL emphasizes fostering digital innovation, supporting deep-tech ventures, and educating future entrepreneurial leaders.
How has 28DIGITAL evolved from EIT Digital?
28DIGITAL emerged from EIT Digital’s extensive journey, gaining independence while collaborating with EIT to maintain growth and innovation.
What are the key components of 28DIGITAL's mission?
The core components are Talent, Tech, and Trust, aiming to drive a human-centric and competitive European digital future.
How does 28DIGITAL contribute to Europe’s digital landscape?
It supports startups and SMEs, bridges gaps between industries, and partners with European initiatives to enhance innovation and growth.
What is the significance of the name '28DIGITAL'?
The name reflects a new ambition for a borderless European framework, as well as mathematical concepts that underpin technological advancements.
