The Digital Innovation Hub of Catalonia (DIH4CAT) is a non-profit regional initiative dedicated to fostering innovation and accelerating the technological transformation of SMEs, start-ups, and public entities.
Coordinated by ACCIÓ, the agency for business competitiveness, DIH4CAT brings together the main technological players linked to Industry 4.0 in Catalonia. Among them are leading technology centres and universities with state-of-the-art infrastructures — Eurecat, CVC, ICFO, i2CAT, Leitat, UPC, the Barcelona Supercomputing Center and CIM Foundation — as well as business associations such as Foment, PIMEC, and IESE Business School.
At the European level, DIH4CAT forms part of the European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIH) network, which counts 227 hubs across 213 regions in Europe, covering nearly 90% of European territories. Within this network, 151 hubs receive direct funding from the Digital Europe Programme, ensuring that companies and public entities across the continent can access cutting-edge digital services and infrastructures.
Empowering companies through technology and collaboration
Over its first two years, DIH4CAT has delivered outstanding results that showcase its impact:
- 83 ecosystem activities with more than 3,397 participants
- 113 training sessions with over 2,756 participants
- 204 orientation services, including funding advice
- 64 international interactions across 37 networks
- 82 participations in regional, national, and international ecosystems
These achievements underline DIH4CAT’s role as a key catalyst for digital transformation, enabling companies to experiment, learn, and scale their adoption of advanced technologies.
Leitat’s role: advancing additive manufacturing
Within DIH4CAT, Leitat leads the Additive Manufacturing node, promoting progress in 3D printing technologies and their application across multiple industries.
A recent highlight was the Medical Additive Manufacturing training organised by Leitat during the 3DP Medical Week at DFactory. The session gathered over 50 participants from hospitals and medical companies, inspiring them to explore how additive manufacturing is revolutionising healthcare — from personalised anatomical models to enhanced surgical planning.
In addition, participants designed their first 3D-printed medical applications using real case studies, experiencing first-hand the potential of this technology to transform patient care. This hands-on approach not only fostered innovation but also demonstrated the practical benefits of additive manufacturing in the medical field.
Looking ahead
The DIH4CAT project is set to conclude in December 2025, but its legacy is already secured: a continuation has been confirmed with funding from both national and international agencies. This ensures that DIH4CAT will keep driving digital transformation, empowering businesses, and strengthening Catalonia’s position as a leader in Industry 4.0.
