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EIT Digital's Bold New Identity as 28DIGITAL

On October 13, 2025, EIT Digital, a prominent organization in digital innovation across Europe, revealed its new name: 28DIGITAL. This change marks a significant milestone in its 15-year journey that began when it was established as EIT ICT Labs in 2010 under the auspices of the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT). Over the years, it has evolved into Europe’s largest open innovation ecosystem, completing its foundational cycle and preparing for a new phase of independent operations, albeit continuing its collaboration with the EIT.

A New Chapter for Innovation

The rebranding to 28DIGITAL signifies not just a change in name but also a strategic pivot towards nurturing talent, advancing technology, and fostering trust within the digital landscape. According to Federico Menna, the CEO of 28DIGITAL, the dual mission has always been to accelerate the growth of European deep-tech companies and train the next generation of digital leaders within a robust collaborative ecosystem. The new brand is a declaration of intent, aligned with a new European vision known as the '28th regime,' which promotes a limitless European framework supporting startups and scale-ups throughout the European market.

Empowering Digital Sovereignty

28DIGITAL aims to redefine critical sectors such as healthcare, mobility, manufacturing, and energy through deep tech solutions. Its strategy is poised to leverage transformative technologies to ensure Europe’s resilience and global impact. Furthermore, the organization emphasizes its commitment to green technologies that will expedite the transition towards a sustainable and digital economy.

Martin Kern, the Director of EIT, expressed pride in the remarkable growth of EIT Digital, highlighting its evolution from one of the initial knowledge and innovation communities of the EIT into an innovation ecosystem that continues to deliver digital innovations and competencies independently of EIT funding. The organization remains a vital part of the EIT community while reinforcing Europe’s competitive edge by supporting various partners and innovators throughout its digital transformation journey.

The Significance of '28'

The number '28' in the new identity symbolizes a fresh European initiative, promoting an infinite European framework where digital innovation, talent, and entrepreneurship can flourish across the single market. This number is also mathematically unique; it equals the sum of its divisors (1 + 2 + 4 + 7 + 14 = 28), a concept grounded in number theory essential for fields such as cryptography, quantum algorithms, and even supercomputer benchmarks.

Founded with the support of the EIT, 28DIGITAL has received substantial funding of €1.1 billion and strategic guidance over the past 15 years, which enabled its initiative to drive innovation in the digital transformation space. With the signing of a cooperation agreement, both EIT and 28DIGITAL are committed to further advocating for digital innovation within Europe and globally.

A Sustainable Future

As 28DIGITAL steps into this exciting new chapter, it is focused on fostering an environment ripe for innovation that aligns with European values. By continuing to build partnerships and supporting innovators, it is determined to contribute significantly to the ongoing digital transformation across Europe. The launch of the new identity serves as both an evolution of its services and a commitment to a digital future that is competitive, human-centered, and deeply rooted in European principles.

For more information, visit 28digital.eu.