On 27-29 September in Stara Zagora was held the first ever meeting of IT communities from small towns in Bulgaria. The event brought together IT enthusiasts, entrepreneurs and professionals to discuss the challenges and opportunities for the development of the technology sector in smaller towns. Among the main topics of the meeting were finding new customers, the digital transformation of Bulgaria, bridging the digital divide, the challenges of finding skilled labour in smaller towns, establishing local and regional IT academies, providing free access to cyber security for SMEs and POs and participating in initiatives such as the European Cyber Security Corridor (ECCE).
Guests, speakers and participants
Guests and speakers at the forum were Dobroslav Dimitrov, Chairman of Bulgarian Employers Association for Innovative Technologies (BRAIT) и Chairman of the Advisory Board of the Bulgarian Association of Software Companies (BASSCOM), Christian Daskalov - Chairman of European Digital Innovation Hub "Thrace" - project of the Union for Economic Initiativeа, Dr. Rumyana Grozeva, coordinating manager of "Zagore" ECIC.
The organizer of the event was IT Association Stara Zagora, in the person of Boryana Peycheva, manager and her team of professionals.
The meeting was attended by representatives of IT companies from all over the country, such as Stara Zagora, Kazanlak, Kardzhali, Smolyan, Devin, Yambol, Vratsa, Razgrad, Silistra and more!
Discussions:
5 ideas on how to find customers quickly and efficiently
Old acquaintances
Partnerships
Netorking
Online presence
Social media
One of the key discussions was dedicated to the five ideas for effective and fast customer acquisition. Experts shared their experiences and strategies for reaching potential clients, highlighting the importance of building strong networks, using online platforms and targeting specific niche markets. Attendees also had the opportunity to participate in hands-on exercises where they honed their presentation skills and learned how to create compelling presentations.
Let's take Bulgaria and the economy through the Fifth Industrial Revolution, the revolution of Artificial Intelligence!
Another important topic was the role of the IT sector in helping Bulgaria to move through the Fifth Industrial Revolution, which is marked by rapid advances in artificial intelligence (AI). Dobroslav Dimitrov, Chairman of Bulgarian Employers Association for Innovative Technologies (BRAIT) and Art. of Board of the Bulgarian Association of Software Companies (BASSCOM) stressed the need for collaboration between governments, academia and business to foster innovation and provide the necessary resources to develop AI technologies. We also discussed the potential of AI to stimulate economic growth, the emergence of new professions and improve public services.
Bridging the digital divide in Bulgaria
The meeting also addressed the problem of the digital divide in Bulgaria. Representatives of various organizations discussed ways to bridge this gap and ensure that all citizens can benefit from the advantages of modern technologies. Initiatives aimed at improving access to the internet, increasing digital skills and encouraging the adoption of digital technologies in rural areas were presented.
Free access to cyber security expertise for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and public organisations (POs)
An important part of the event was the focus on providing free access to cybersecurity for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and public organisations (POs). Experts from ECIC "Thrace" and ECIC "Zagore" shared their knowledge on the latest threats in cyberspace and provided guidance on how organisations can protect their systems and data. In addition, participants learned about available resources and programs that offer assistance in implementing cybersecurity measures, thereby contributing to the overall safety and stability of the digital ecosystem.
EEN Network, European Cyber Security Corridor (ECCE)
During the meeting, attendees were also introduced to the Enterprise Europe Network (EEN), which helps SMEs to grow internationally, find partners for cooperation and access information on financing. The European Cybersecurity Corridor (ECCE), an initiative that aims to improve cooperation between European countries in the field of cybersecurity by promoting knowledge sharing, developing joint projects and facilitating access to markets, was also presented. Participants were encouraged to explore these opportunities and join the effort to strengthen cybersecurity and promote the growth of the IT sector in Europe.
Conclusion
The first meeting of IT communities from small towns was a valuable forum for sharing ideas, making connections and exploring ways to develop the tech industry in regions outside the big cities. By focusing on specific problems and offering practical solutions, the event laid the foundation for future growth and success in the IT sector in Bulgaria's smaller localities.
