Contributing to the digital transformation of manufacturing SMEs

Introduction

This Triangular Cooperation Initiative, supported through the ADELANTE Window, responded to the growing need for manufacturing SMEs in Cuba to adopt digital and sustainable production methods, aligned with the country’s ongoing economic transformation. Building on academic partnerships, it drew on the expertise of leading institutions in Spain, Mexico, and Brazil to support the University of Matanzas (UM), Cuba, in developing advanced competencies in sustainable manufacturing technologies.

In collaboration with the Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León (UANL), Mexico, Centro Universitário Teresa D’Ávila (UNIFATEA), Brazil, and the Centro de Automática y Robótica (CAR) of the Universidad Politécnica de Madrid/CSIC, Spain, the Initiative combined research excellence with practical experience in business sector engagement. These partnerships contributed to a broader strategy to strengthen UM’s ability to support SMEs through technological innovation, while simultaneously fostering university-industry collaboration in the Cuban context.

Through joint research, training, peer exchange, and direct engagement with SMEs and policy stakeholders, the Initiative developed a context-specific model for digital transformation. It contributed directly to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those related to productivity, innovation, industrialisation, and inclusion.

Objectives

This initiative strengthened the capacities of the partnership member entities to engage in dialogue with the business sector, and respond to their needs related to manufacturing processes, particularly in terms of the digital transformation processes of manufacturing SMEs, thus positioning the university as a key player in the productive sector and in sustainable economic growth. 

Project activities

• Virtual workshop to assess institutional capacities and align efforts with UM’s priorities.
• Seminar (hybrid format) with Cuban SME representatives and policy actors to exchange insights and define needs.
• Two study visits:
  • CAR (Madrid) – focused on robotics, AI, and digital transformation platforms.
  • UANL (Monterrey) – focused on additive manufacturing, metrology, and product quality control.
• Dialogue sessions and field visits with private sector representatives in Spain, Mexico, and Cuba.
• Final workshop to consolidate lessons learned and produce materials for identifying SME needs and supporting digital transitions.

Expected results

The Initiative positioned the University of Matanzas (UM) as a national reference for SME digital transformation. Through applied knowledge and direct exchange, UM developed tools and methodologies to assess SME needs and offer tailored technological solutions.

Study visits and seminars strengthened links between academia and business, fostering a culture of innovation and cross-sector collaboration. The Initiative also empowered SMEs in Matanzas to participate actively in the digitalisation process, while also influencing national policymakers responsible for SME and economic development.

New partnerships and innovations emerged, including the creation of a 3D services SME in the biomedical sector and agreements with the Matanzas Science and Technology Park. The Initiative also contributed to Cuba’s broader academic and scientific agenda, earning recognition from national institutions.

The partnership dynamic continues beyond the project’s completion, with ongoing knowledge transfer and institutional collaboration. Discussions are underway on forming an Ibero-American network to support SME digital transformation. This sustained momentum confirms the relevance and impact of the Initiative as a model for Triangular Cooperation in inclusive industrial development.

Implementing partners

Universidad de Matanzas (Cuba) – Beneficiary

Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León – UANL (Mexico) – First Provider

Centro Universitário Teresa D’Ávila – UNIFATEA (Brazil) – First Provider

Centro de Automática y Robótica – CAR (UPM/CSIC, Spain) – Second Provider