Training to enhance digital inclusion for entrepreneurs and SMEs

Digital inclusion has become a prerequisite for businesses, enabling them to initiate their digital transition, remain competitive and adapt to a constantly changing environment. Recognising this situation, the Ministry for Digitalisation has launched a call for projects aimed at supporting and funding initiatives that promote digital inclusion, to reduce disparities and encourage the adoption of technology by all economic players.

The Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology (LIST) and the House of Training were among the selected applicants for the 2023 call for projects, with their innovative project entitled "Practical digital inclusion workshop - Create innovative ideas for your company ". Find out more about this project, which recently came to an end.

These transformative digital workshops supported entrepreneurs in Luxembourg, who may not be familiar with digital tools, by offering them methods and tools to take the digital plunge.

"Thanks to these training courses, participants have been encouraged to design and prototype innovative solutions tailored to their specific needs, paving the way for better integration of digital technologies into their day-to-day professional lives. This project is a perfect illustration of the Luxembourg government's commitment to supporting small and medium-sized enterprises in their digital transition, by equipping them with the skills they need to thrive in the digital economy ", says Marie Gallais, Research Group Leader and initiator of these workshops at LIST.

Taking the digital plunge

Designed to be accessible and motivating, these workshops introduced participants to the basics of programming using a simple, fun learning environment: Kniwwelino. The aim? To acquire basic programming skills and learn to use simple but powerful tools to imagine and create prototypes that meet the specific needs of their company.

"Participants are guided through the development of programmes, from the programming logic to the connection of electronic boards and their extensions", explains Laurence Johannsen, Research Engineer at LIST, who runs these workshops with Christian Moll, also a Research Engineer at LIST.

In the second stage, participants are encouraged to think about digital solutions adapted to their company. What opportunities do connected objects offer for their business? What new products or services could emerge? This prototyping exercise not only helps to bring these ideas to life, but also opens up the dialogue on other digital technologies such as augmented reality, 3D modelling and social networking.

A tangible impact in action

The results of these workshops testify to their relevance and impact. Since their launch, they have been offered to a variety of entrepreneurs across the country, notably as part of the *Fit4DigitalFuture 2.0* programme run by the House of Training, in collaboration with the Chambre des Métiers and the HES-SO in Lausanne. In all, no fewer than thirteen sessions were organised, reaching a wide range of professionals looking to go digital.

"The growing need for digital skills to support the transition of businesses demonstrates the importance of high-quality continuing vocational training. This training must be adapted to current and future challenges, while supporting the development of companies, their managers and their employees. This is at the heart of our mission," emphasises Stefano Paletta, Business Manager of the House of Training.

The enthusiasm generated by these training courses has paved the way for the project to be made permanent. There are plans to integrate these workshops on a permanent basis into the House of Training's training catalogue, along with structures such as the Digital Learning Hub (DLH) and the Luxembourg Digital Innovation Hub (LDIH). What's more, a new session is already scheduled for January 2025 within the Innokick Master's programme at the HES-SO Lausanne, proof of the ongoing commitment to supporting entrepreneurs in their digital transition.

This project has been made possible thanks to the financial support of the Ministry for Digitalisation, as part of the National Action Plan for Digital Inclusion.