SMIC Community: Connecting Manufacturers in the Western Balkans
Take part in the regional survey on Industry 4.0, digitalization, and the circular economy
For manufacturing SMEs, business support organizations (BSOs), and other industrial stakeholders in the Western Balkans.
The Western Balkans is entering a pivotal stage in its industrial development, marked by the rapid adoption of digital technologies, the transition toward greener production models, and the embrace of the circular economy.
To better understand the region’s current capabilities, the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) has launched a comprehensive regional survey as part of the project “Fostering Industry 4.0 for Green Transition and Circular Economy in the Western Balkans”, funded by the Governments of Slovenia and Cyprus.
Why your participation matters
This survey aims to assess:
-
Digital readiness – the extent to which businesses and organizations are prepared to adopt Industry 4.0 technologies such as automation, data analytics, IoT, AI, etc.
-
Innovation potential – capabilities for developing and deploying new products, services, and business models.
-
Sustainability and circular practices – current approaches to energy efficiency, waste reduction, resource reuse, and eco-friendly design.
By participating, you will help create a regional knowledge base that can guide targeted policies, funding programs, and partnerships to accelerate modernization and sustainability in manufacturing.
Who should participate?
-
Manufacturing SMEs – to share their current capabilities, challenges, and plans for technological upgrades.
-
Business Support Organizations (BSOs) – to highlight their role in helping industry adopt new technologies and sustainability practices.
-
Public sector and policy stakeholders – to better align regulations and support measures with the needs of industry.
Benefits of joining the survey
-
Influence the future policy direction for Industry 4.0 in the Western Balkans.
-
Gain insight into regional trends and compare your readiness with others in the ecosystem.
-
Contribute to shaping training, funding, and support programs tailored to your needs.
📅 Deadline for participation: 8 September 2025
For questions or partnership inquiries related to this research, please contact:
📧 a.filiposki@unido.org or zoran.jelicic@smic-rs.com
🌐 https://smic-rs.com/
Manufacturing SMEs
If you are a manufacturing enterprise located in the Western Balkans, we invite you to participate in our survey.
Business support organizations
If you represent an innovation hub, regional development agency, chamber of commerce, accelerator, or similar institution, we welcome your input.
Public institutions
If you are a government ministry, local authority, regulatory agency, or other public body involved in shaping industrial, digitalization, or sustainability policies in the Western Balkans, we value your perspective.