The international kick-off meeting of “Artisan 4.0 – Digital Transformation and Innovation for Artisans in the South Adriatic Region” was held on 18 November at the CNA Bari-BAT headquarters in Via Nicola Tridente, marking the official launch of a cross-border initiative aimed at supporting digital transformation, the adoption of innovative technologies, and strengthening the competitiveness of micro and small artisan enterprises in the South Adriatic area.
Co-funded by the European Union under the Interreg IPA South Adriatic Programme for 712.058 euro, the project brings together five partners: CNA Bari-BAT (Lead Partner), University LUM Giuseppe Degennaro, CNA Campobasso, Nucleus Albania and the Agency for Development and Business Support Cetinje, alongside representatives of the Programme’s Joint Secretariat.
The meeting opened with greetings and an introduction from CNA Bari-BAT. Representatives of the Interreg South Adriatic Programme then illustrated the objectives and priorities guiding the initiative.
Partners from Italy, Albania and Montenegro presented their organizations and contributions to the project, before moving into joint discussion on the main areas of work: strengthening collaboration among artisans in the Adriatic area, promoting the use of innovative and digital tools in small craft businesses, and developing shared strategies to support the sector’s long-term growth.
In the afternoon, participants focused on the practical aspects needed to launch the project: administrative and financial procedures, communication activities, and the first technical steps linked to the project’s work streams. The day ended with an open exchange among partners and the definition of the next steps.
A shared commitment to innovation and sustainability
Artisan 4.0 aims to connect traditional craftsmanship with new technologies and collaborative methods. Activities such as Innovation Labs, Design Thinking sessions and cross-border exchanges will allow artisans to co-create solutions tailored to their real needs.
By providing new skills, tools and networks, the project will help micro and small enterprises improve their productivity, visibility and resilience in today’s digital and competitive market.
The kick-off meeting in Bari marks the start of a two-year cooperation journey to promote innovation and safeguard traditional know-how across the South Adriatic region.
The project is led by Italy’s Artisan Entrepreneurs Bari-BAT– CNA BARI (IT) in cooperation with University LUM Giuseppe Degennaro (IT), Italy’s Artisan Entrepreneurs Campobasso – CNA Campobasso (IT), Nucleus Albania (AL) and Agency for Development and Business Support Cetinje (ME).