A catalyst for the digitalization of Romania
In a global context where technology is redefining economic and administrative models, Romania has a concrete need to accelerate digital progress. The significant lack of digital skills of the population, combined with uneven paces between the private sector and public administration, represents the main challenge in the field today.
To respond to this need for accelerated growth, we launched Edge Institute, a Think Tank formed by an independent group of experts, united by the common vision of increasing Romania’s productivity and economic competitiveness and, implicitly, the quality of life of its citizens through digital development and evolution.
Digital transformation facilitator
Digitalization is no longer just a trend, but an essential component of economic and administrative progress. Edge Institute assumes the role of facilitator of this transformation, bringing together expertise from the private, academic and administrative environments to provide viable solutions and clear strategic directions.
The mission of the institute is to support Romania’s digital transition, so that in the next decade the country reaches the average level of the European Union in the “Digital Decade” / DESI a program that annually measures the degree of digitalization of the member states.
Digitalization must be about citizens, not just about technology.
“Digitalization does not just mean technology, but solutions that simplify interaction with the administration, support entrepreneurship and increase the level of digital education. Romania has immense potential, but without a coherent strategy and effective implementation, the gaps will widen. Digitalization must be a tool that simplifies the lives of citizens, streamlines the relationship with the state and increases economic competitiveness. We believe that, if the data rush is the new gold rush, Romania has a unique advantage in the region: 25 million citizens, at home or in the diaspora – an asset that positions us above any other nation in the area. This potential gives us the right and responsibility to have serious long-term ambitions. Today we want to climb from the last positions in the Digital Decade rankings, but, with a clear strategy and well-directed resources, Romania can aspire to a leading role in Central and Eastern Europe in the next 5-10 years“
Robert Berza, Executive Director at Edge Institute
Leaders in technology, economy and innovation, united for the digitalization of Romania
The Edge Institute Board brings together experts from various fields, including:
- Elisabeta Moraru, Country Director Google
- Diana Stafie, FutureStation founder
- Bogdan Axinia, Managing Director, eMAG Ventures
- Cosmin Alexandru, Teamology founder
- Dragoș Stanca, tech entrepreneur, investor in digital media and web3, founder of UPGRADE 100
- Iulian Stanciu, Executive President eMAG
- Mihai Matei, CEO Essensys Software & Concordia Vicepresident
- Oleg Roibu, Group General Counsel, eMAG
- Răzvan Rughiniș, university professor at the Polytechnic University of Bucharest and co-founder of Innovation Labs
- Sergiu Manea, CEO Romanian Commercial Bank
- Victor Guzun, digital transformation consultant and former ambassador of the Republic of Moldova to Estonia
These professionals will contribute to the institute’s mission to accelerate Romania’s digitalization, combining expertise in technology, economics, banking, and media.