SMIC with UNIDO on Industry 4.0 in North Macedonia

SMIC and UNIDO AI Innovation and Digital Transformation engaged stakeholders in North Macedonia through two focus groups to advance Industry 4.0 and digital transformation for the country.

💡 The first session: SMEs from Macedonia shared their perspectives on:
• Current awareness and understanding of Industry 4.0
• Barriers and opportunities in adopting advanced technologies
• Support mechanisms needed for successful digital transition
• The role of policymakers and support organizations in enabling innovation

🤝 The second session: business support organizations (BSOs), academia, and research institutions explored how digitalization and circular economy principles can drive industrial transformation across the Western Balkans.

Key discussion points included:
• Strengthening institutional support for SMEs in digital and sustainable practices
• Bridging gaps in knowledge transfer and research-to-industry collaboration
• Designing targeted programs for innovation and circularity
• Enhancing regional networks to accelerate the green transition

Both sessions highlighted the depth of expertise of participants, offering insights into how Macedonian industry can evolve in the digital age.

A sincere thank you to all contributors! These conversations are essential steps in building a resilient, future-ready industrial ecosystem in the Western Balkans.