DIGITA(A)L-FLOW (D-FLOW)

Digitalisation and process optimisation are crucial for the innovative strength of SMEs in the border region. Many SMEs lack sufficient knowledge, capacity, and resources to make effective use of digitalisation. DIGITA(A)L-FLOW (D-FLOW) offers a practical approach, with the training of 100 Digiscouts at its core. Employees of participating SMEs are trained as Digiscouts to identify and implement digital improvements. They follow a programme focused on four development competencies: strategic digitalisation (vision development, change management), technological skills (tools, AI, and IT security), data competence (data analysis and interpretation), and customer orientation (digital customer interaction and personalisation).
The digitalisation needs of SMEs are identified through a potential check, in which project partners determine where the deployment of a Digiscout can add value. In From Potential Check to Digiscout, the digitalisation potential is analysed and it is determined how a Digiscout can concretely contribute to change. This approach forms the basis for matching with a partner SME on the other side of the border (sub-project), enabling both companies to participate in an NL-DE tandem and strengthen each other. The partners reach 1,000 SMEs, of which 300 carry out a potential check, leading to 100 being trained as Digiscouts.
For structured knowledge exchange, D-FLOW develops the Best Practice Database, where companies can share best practices. In addition, a cross-border Digiscout meeting takes place, where companies from both sides of the border learn from each other and from experts.
D-FLOW is a cooperation of TCNN, Emsland GmbH, Jade Hochschule, Hanze, MKB Cyber Campus, and Leannova. By pooling knowledge and networks, the partners strengthen the digital capacity of SMEs and shape an innovative, future-proof region.