SMEnergy Connect Inspires SMEs to Embrace a Sustainable Energy Future in Liberec

How can SMEs reduce energy costs, switch to renewable energy, and strengthen their competitiveness? These questions were at the heart of SMEnergy Connect, a hybrid conference held on 13th March at the Technical University of Liberec (CXI TUL), hosted by DEX Innovation Centre as part of the SMEnergy Interreg Danube project.

On-site and online, the event brought together experts, entrepreneurs, innovators, and changemakers from across the Danube region to explore practical strategies and real-world solutions for decarbonising the SME sector. From cutting-edge technologies to innovative funding models, the conference served as a platform for dialogue, collaboration, and inspiration.

The event opened with a project presentation outlining the SMEnergy initiative’s goals: to support SMEs in enhancing energy efficiency and adopting sustainable business practices.

Tomáš Svoboda of Sustainova emphasized that “energy efficiency and sustainability are not just trends, but a strategic advantage that will help companies grow and remain competitive.”

A dynamic lineup of speakers followed, including Ladislav Malovecký (BOSON Distribution), who presented HIPPOTRON, a system that improves energy efficiency in hydraulic systems; Antonín Ferdan (HUB Mladá Boleslav), who advocated for regional innovation and digital wisdom; and Matěj Keka, a fundraising and marketing expert with a passion for social impact through his non-profit, Speechless Reconciliation.

Later sessions featured Domonkos Bobak (Wattmanager), who introduced practical energy-saving solutions; Šimon Staňo (DAITABLE), who shared digital tools for SMEs; Velemira Nikolova, who showcased sustainable tourism; and Prof. Boris Evstatiev (University of Ruse), who presented the work of the Digital Energy Systems 4.0 lab. The day concluded with David Šohaj Minařík, founder of MYCO, demonstrating how sustainable packaging can align business with environmental goals.

Beyond information-sharing, SMEnergy Connect focused on concrete tools, funding opportunities, and real-life applications. “SMEnergy is not just about sharing knowledge, but about creating concrete opportunities for companies,” said Adam Červenka from DEX IC. “Our goal is for businesses to receive not only information, but also access to tools that will really help them reduce costs and switch to sustainable energy.”

The SMEnergy project supports SMEs through eight GEKOS Centres offering expert advice, technical support, and guidance on subsidies and financing options. An accompanying online platform will connect SMEs with energy technology suppliers, consultants, and financial advisors. “It’s not just about spreading awareness,” said Petr Kopřiva from DEX IC, “but about providing specific tools and solutions with a real return.”

According to Madeline Langlois of the European Institute for Innovation - Technology eV, regional and international collaboration is key: “Events of this kind are essential to ensure the long-term sustainability of project results, as they involve important players at an early stage.”

With pilot activities running through mid-2026, SMEnergy aims to become a catalyst for change across the Danube region—equipping SMEs to thrive in a rapidly evolving energy landscape.