About the Project

Supporting Digital and Green Transformation of Manufacturing SMEs

The manufacturing sector – largely composed of SMEs – is a key asset for the European economy and a major driver of employment and prosperity. However, it is also an energy-intensive sector, responsible for one-fifth of the EU’s greenhouse gas emissions.

MANTRA will directly support a group of 50 manufacturing SMEs through €50,000 in financial support, complemented by a tailored pathway enabling them to develop and leverage their digital and technological potential within a sustainable business model, ensuring more resource-efficient and circular processes and infrastructure.

EIT Manufacturing South's Role

Within the MANTRA project, EIT Manufacturing South acts as an ecosystem activator, building a community that connects traditional and high-tech SMEs, sector-leading companies, and European business support networks (ENN, ECCP, OITB, EDIH). Through targeted peer-learning and coaching activities, EITM South fosters the exchange of skills and best practices across these different target groups, helping SMEs grow by learning directly from leaders in their sector.

The Consortium

The consortium comprises 8 partners from 7 countries (Spain, Italia, Portugal, Romania, Denmark, Belgium, France) and is coordinated by Zabala Innovation.

+ Babele
+ CETIM
+ EIT Manufacturing South
+ Greenovate

+ INESTEC
+ RINA
+ Secpho
+ Zabala

8

Partners

7

Countries

Advisory Services

Empowering organisations with tailored advisory support to accelerate innovation, enhance sustainability, and strengthen competitiveness. Our services combine technical expertise and strategic insight to help transform ideas into scalable, market-ready solutions.

Technology Transfer

We support organisations in identifying and adopting the most suitable technologies, enabling seamless integration into existing operations to drive innovation and performance.

Innovation Roadmapping

We develop strategic innovation roadmaps that align business goals with market and technology trends, defining clear priorities, milestones, and pathways for sustainable growth.

New Business Model Development

We analyse market dynamics and competitive landscapes to co-develop innovative business models, unlock new revenue streams, and validate strategies through customer insights and iterative testing.

Circular Business Model Design

We help organisations transition towards circularity by mapping current and future business models, identifying opportunities for resource efficiency, and embedding sustainable value creation across the entire value chain.

Market Entry & Expansion Strategy

We support organisations in entering and scaling in new markets through in-depth analysis, strategic positioning, and the development of tailored go-to-market approaches.

Lean Manufacturing

We assess production processes to identify inefficiencies and sources of waste, implementing lean solutions that improve operational efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance overall performance.

Skills Development & Training

We deliver expert-led training and advisory programmes focused on sustainability and digital transformation, enabling organisations to reduce emissions, optimise resources, and implement best practices effectively.

Matchmaking & Partnerships

We foster collaboration by connecting businesses, researchers, and stakeholders through matchmaking initiatives, innovation ecosystems, and knowledge-sharing platforms that accelerate sustainable innovation.

Past Events

Cyber Resilience Act for Manufacturing SMEs

29 July 2026 - A dedicated webinar exploring the Cyber Resilience Act (CRA), covering regulatory requirements, harmonised standards, compliance tools and real-world manufacturing use cases. Organised in collaboration with Cyberstand.eu, the session provided practical insights into strengthening cybersecurity posture and preparing for upcoming regulatory obligations, with guidance from leading European experts.

From Sensors to Intelligence: Digital Technologies Driving Efficiency in Manufacturing

6 July 2026 - Experts from innovative companies and European ecosystems shared their perspectives on the latest developments in digital manufacturing, covering industrial implementation, enabling technologies, and regulatory challenges linked to AI and smart systems.

Connecting Europe's Innovation Ecosystems for SME Impact

11 May 2026 - European stakeholders shared their perspectives and practical experiences, highlighting the benefits of joining their ecosystems. The discussion explored how these connections can help organisations access new opportunities, strengthen cross-border collaboration, exchange knowledge, and build meaningful relationships with potential partners across Europe.

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EIT Manufacturing South S.r.l.
Bastioni di Porta Nuova, 21 - 20121 Milan, Italy
VAT & Fiscal Code 11214340967

Driving Sustainable and Innovative Manufacturing