AIRISE

Activity Leader

Nikos Panopoulos

Strategic Project Manager

EIT Manufacturing South East

About the project

The AIRISE project aims to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) into manufacturing to reduce waste and carbon footprint while ensuring resilient operations. The primary beneficiaries are small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the manufacturing sector, which will gain access to AI expertise through Digital Innovation Hubs and commercial partners. 

Key activities include: 

1. Establishing an ecosystem where AI experts support SMEs. 

2. Conducting Open Calls for SMEs to access AI assessments and pilot applications. 

3. Providing cybersecurity and internet of things (IoT) support, as well as smart working environments with collaborative robots and operator interfaces. 

These methods aim to create real-world AI applications, enhancing sustainability and operational resilience in manufacturing SMEs. 

Challenges

The main challenge AIRISE aims to address is the high waste and carbon footprint in manufacturing SMEs. By integrating AI, the project seeks to optimise processes, reduce waste and lower emissions, ensuring more sustainable operations.  

AI experts will collaborate with SMEs through Digital Innovation Hubs, offering tailored assessments and support for pilot applications. Additionally, external resources in cybersecurity and IoT will enhance the project’s effectiveness.  

Ultimately, AIRISE strives to transform SMEs into models of sustainable and resilient manufacturing through advanced AI integration. 

Solutions

The aim is to support SMEs in the uptake of AI in their environment. With a streamlined analysis, specific recommendations and a large repository of cases, support and resources can be effectively matched to need. The project involves a group of experts from across Europe, who are brought together in specific compositions to meet the needs of each participating SME.  

Expected results

The project aims to achieve a significant reduction in waste and carbon footprint in manufacturing SMEs. Specific targets include a 20% reduction in waste and a 15% decrease in carbon emissions within participating SMEs.  

Success will be measured by the number of SMEs implementing AI solutions, with a goal of engaging at least 100 SMEs through Open Calls.  

The overall impact envisioned is a more sustainable and resilient manufacturing sector, where AI-driven optimisations lead to enhanced operational efficiency and environmental performance. This will position SMEs as leaders in sustainable manufacturing practices. 

Participants