THE EUROPEAN INSTITUTE OF INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY (EIT) PLANS TO TRAIN 1 MILLION PEOPLE IN “DEEP TECH”

The European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) plans to train 1 million people in “deep tech” by the end of 2025 through its new program, the EIT Deep Tech Talent Initiative. European high schools, universities, companies, and other types of organizations, including Bulgarian ones, will be eligible to apply. The initial application process will start in November but will be limited to universities that have already collaborated with EIT through its HEI program. Subsequently, applications will be open to all other interested parties.

Bulgarian schools and universities will be able to apply through the program’s website starting in early 2023, when the program becomes open to institutions that have not previously worked with EIT. The program will initially be funded with €25 million from the EIT budget, but the institute hopes for significant co-financing from other interested parties invited to participate in the initiative.

“Deep tech” is a broad term that is not specifically defined. During the event, Martin Kern, the Director of EIT, described it as “anything that encompasses technology and science.” Several months ago, he provided this definition in an interview with “Kapital” magazine.

With this project, Europe aims to bridge the gap between itself and its technological competitors, namely the United States and China. Similar programs seek to train a large number of individuals from different countries while also fostering cohesion among representatives from various member states and language groups in the union.