Watch our live debate in the video player at the top of the article to hear how technology experts and professionals are accelerating the digital transformation of Europe’s SMEs.
Taking the plunge to go digital and invest in information technology can be a challenging step for Europe’s small and medium-sized businesses, but case studies show it boosts profits, productivity and innovation.
In this Euronews debate, our expert panellists will discuss how to drive digital innovation, support companies in their transformation to digital and take advantage of help from specialised companies like Huawei and EU government programmes.
Our panellists will discuss the benefits of embracing digital technologies like e-invoicing applications, tools for digital advertising, systems for teleworking and cybersecurity systems.
You can watch the live debate in the video player at the top of this article.
Meet the panellists:
Aleksander Rajch, board member of Poland’s New Energy Association
Aleksander Rajch has been a board member of Poland’s New Energy Association (PSNM) for the last seven years. The association is the largest industry organization shaping the e-mobility and hydrogen technology market in Poland and the CEE region.
He has also been active in the public affairs, corporate communication and e-mobility industry for nearly 15 years. Rajch studied at the Faculty of Law and Administration at Warsaw University.
Ana Paula Nishio de Sousa, Head of the Digital Transformation and AI Strategies Division at UNIDO
Ana Paula Nishio de Sousa is the Chief of the Division of Digital Transformation and AI Strategies at the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO). With more than 30 years of experience in technology and digital transformation, including more than two decades in international development, she is a key figure in harnessing AI for sustainable industrial growth in developing countries.
At UNIDO, Nishio de Sousa leads the AIM Global Initiative, collaborating with expert organisations around the world on AI training and deployment projects in emerging economies. She is a frequent speaker at international forums, sharing insights on the role of AI in industrial development and its potential to address global challenges, with expertise in digital transformation strategies, AI governance and fostering innovation ecosystems.
Zhu Xiaoming, VP of Global Industry Development at Huawei Cloud
Dr Zhu Xiaoming is Vice President of Global Industry Development at Huawei Cloud, where he leads initiatives to drive innovation and digital transformation across various industries. With a Ph.D. from UC Berkeley and a background in telecommunications and AI, Dr Zhu brings extensive experience to his role in shaping Huawei’s cloud strategies for various industries.
Prior to joining Huawei, Zhu made significant contributions to wireless communication technology, including the development of the first TD-LTE/TD-SCDMA multi-mode terminal chip approved for industrial use. He also founded Fandou Technology in 2014, which focuses on AI solutions for educational environments. At Huawei Cloud, Zhu continues to drive innovation and help enterprises leverage cloud computing and artificial intelligence to transform their operations.
Horst Heitz, Chairman of the SME Connect Steering Committee
Horst Heitz took up the role of Secretary-General SMEs of the Taxpayers Association of Europe (TAE) in July 2023. He joined the Steering Committee of SME Connect (SMEC) in 2017 and was appointed chairman in the same year.
Heitz is an Ambassador of the League for Digital Boost and Secretary General of SME Europe. He holds a PhD in Political Science from the University of Vienna.
Alexander Pisemskiy, CEO of Zenpulsar
Alexander Pisemskiy is an experienced tech entrepreneur, investor and advisor with a focus on cybersecurity, fintech and AI. He has co-founded successful companies including Zenpulsar, Kalita Partners, CSI Group), and Group-IB, and became a partner at PRYTEK Holdings.
He specialises in using technology to fight cybercrime, fraud and corruption, improve online integrity and trust and counter market manipulations. In his role as an investor and advisor, he shares technological and business expertise to support early-stage companies.
Gaurav Tripathi, CTO of Innoplexus AG
Gaurav Tripathi has over 19 years of experience in building and leading startups in video, big data, blockchain and AI. Tripathi is the co-founder and group CTO of Innoplexus AG, a company that empowers customers and partners with AI to develop newer, more efficacious therapies faster. He is also a board member of Amrit AG, a company that aims to create a universal treatment discovery engine for untreatable diseases.
Tripathi ideated and built an AI community of over 1,000 tech enthusiasts in Pune, aiming to position the city on the global AI map. He also launched the TIP tech internship program, providing students with valuable internship opportunities in the tech industry.
