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Reform Support

Supporting reforms to foster an attractive business environment and increase competitiveness

Funding Programme
Year
  • 2023

Improving digital maturity of Czech businesses 

The project focused on enhancing the digital maturity of businesses through state aid schemes provided by the Ministry of Industry and Trade of the Czech Republic. Funded by the European Union via the Technical Support Instrument and implemented by the European Commission, the project delivered analysis, recommendations, and a Digital Maturity Assessment tool for the ministry to improve digitalisation state aid schemes, enhancing SMEs' competitiveness and fostering innovation. 

Context 

Aligned with the EU’s Green and Digital Transformation priorities and the Recovery and Resilience Facility, the project addressed the low levels of digitalisation among SMEs in Czechia. Key challenges included fragmented state aid systems, insufficient digital infrastructure, and limited awareness of digitalisation benefits. The project sought to enhance SMEs' digital readiness by simplifying access to financial and technical support while fostering innovation. 

Support delivered

The project, supported by EU funding, targeted the Ministry of Industry and Trade. The provider, in collaboration with subcontractors, implemented the project during twelve months from November 2023 to November 2024. The main activities included delivering two key outputs: (1) Report on analysis, recommendations and methodological materials for support schemes and (2) Digital Maturity Assessment tool tailored for Czech SMEs. Developed through regular consultations with the ministry, the project leveraged EU good practices to address Czechia’s digitalisation challenges. This involved close cooperation with stakeholders to ensure the tools were practical, relevant, and aligned with EU digital priorities. 

Results achieved

The project led to the creation of a new Digital Maturity Assessment tool, which helps Czech businesses understand their current level of digitalisation and identify areas for improvement. Additionally, the project introduced improved state aid measures, making it easier for businesses to access resources and funding for digital innovation. This state aid framework helps the Ministry of Industry and Trade offer more effective guidance, enabling SMEs to become more productive and competitive. Ultimately, these efforts aim to drive digital transformation across Czechia, fostering a more innovative and digitally equipped business landscape.

Useful links

Veřejná konzultace k návrhu metodiky pro hodnocení digitalizace podniků | MPO

More about the project

You can read the documents related to the project here: