Today, 13 November 2026, the Bulgarian Industrial Capital Association (BICA) held a regional meeting and seminar entitled “Enterprises in the New Technological Realities” at the House of Science and Technology in Plovdiv. The event was organized within the framework of project BG05SFPR002-1.005-0004 “A Comprehensive Approach to Ensuring Motivated and Qualified Human Resources”, co-funded by the European Union.
The meeting focused on the challenges and opportunities facing enterprises amid accelerating technological transformation, highlighting the practical application of artificial intelligence, cybersecurity risk management, and access to European funding for the development of innovation and entrepreneurship.
The event was opened by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Milena Angelova, Executive Deputy Chair of BICA and Project Manager, and Mr. Dimitar Gishin, a representative of the management of Saedinenie Technology and Innovation Corporation AD.
During the first thematic presentation, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Milena Angelova outlined the technical and legal aspects of using artificial intelligence in enterprises. The presentation explored opportunities for applying AI technologies to forecasting, optimizing production processes, automation, and supporting management decision-making. Particular attention was paid to practical applications in manufacturing, energy, logistics, and water resource management.
The presentation emphasized that the implementation of artificial intelligence should be based on high-quality data, clearly defined objectives, and measurable results, while ensuring human oversight and accountability in decision-making. The legal framework governing the use of artificial intelligence was also discussed, along with the resource-related and environmental aspects of technological infrastructure development.
Rositsa Stelianova, Director of Programmes and Projects at BICA, presented funding opportunities for start-ups and innovative enterprises through European funds and financial instruments. The presentation covered access to grants under the Competitiveness and Innovation in Enterprises Programme, the Fund of Funds' financial instruments supporting entrepreneurship, as well as opportunities for direct European funding through the European Innovation Council and the Horizon Europe Programme.
Particular attention was paid to the various funding opportunities available at different stages of enterprise development, from the initial idea and prototype development to market entry and business expansion. Specific eligibility requirements, financial parameters, and practical application steps were presented, including opportunities under the “Entrepreneurship – Early Stage” instrument, microfinance, and the EIC Accelerator. The importance of conducting a preliminary eligibility assessment and selecting the appropriate financial instrument according to the needs and capacity of each enterprise was emphasized.
The third thematic focus was dedicated to cybersecurity in business. Ivaylo Petrov, Chair of the Management Board of the Association for Sustainable Development, Innovation and Artificial Intelligence (AURII), presented the topic “Cybersecurity in Business: From Technological Risk to Management Responsibility”. The session addressed the importance of cybersecurity as an integral part of enterprise management in the context of the increasing digitalization of business processes.
The regional meeting concluded with a discussion of the topics presented, focusing on enterprises' adaptation to technological change, the application of innovations, and opportunities for business support.
