Empowering SMEs for digital transformation: The Block4SME project takes blockchain into the supply chain
Block4SME (project no. 2023-1-CY01-KA220-VET-000151955), an Erasmus+ project, is paving the way for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to leverage blockchain technology in their supply chain operations. With a focus on value chain digitalisation through distributed ledger technology, Block4SME aims to enhance SMEs’ resilience and competitiveness by offering a cutting-edge, interactive training package. The project, titled “gearing up SMEs for value chain digitalization through blockchain-based distributed trust”, will provide a new approach to skill development in the areas of supply chain management and digitalisation.
Led by a team of experts from across the EU, Block4SME seeks to align with the European digital strategy, which highlights the importance of adopting edge technologies to improve business resilience and adaptability. The project will address current skills gaps among SMEs, with a special focus on those in the tourism and agri-food sectors, by building digital competencies and providing practical tools for blockchain adoption.
A tailored approach for SME professionals
The Block4SME project is designed to meet the real-world needs of SME professionals by offering an engaging, interactive training experience. Participants will be introduced to blockchain as a valuable tool to modernise supply chain structures, increasing transparency, efficiency, and accountability. Through a curriculum aligned with ECVET standards, participants will gain hands-on knowledge and skills in implementing distributed ledger technologies within their businesses.
In addition to helping SMEs meet today’s digital demands, Block4SME prepares them to become early adopters of future technologies, enhancing their long-term growth and resilience. By adopting blockchain-based trust frameworks, SMEs can build a more robust supply chain that is better equipped to withstand socio-economic changes, ultimately strengthening their market position.
Innovative project results and digital learning tools
The project will deliver four multilingual, practical resources designed to make blockchain technology accessible and actionable for SMEs:
- PR1: Block4SME ECVET-compliant course curriculum – A structured curriculum to help SMEs adopt blockchain technologies within their processes.
- PR2: Block4SME interactive e-course modules – Engaging, modular courses that provide flexible learning options.
- PR3: Block4SME digital simulation environment – A virtual space where participants can learn, assess, and reflect on real-world blockchain applications.
- PR4: Block4SME case-based adoption handbook – A guide designed for sustainable implementation of blockchain in the supply chain, featuring case studies for hands-on learning.
Targeted impact and wide-reaching benefits
Block4SME will impact a diverse range of stakeholders beyond SME professionals. Among the target groups are local authorities, vocational education and training (VET) institutions, professional networks, universities, and policy-making bodies focused on SME digitalisation. The project will also benefit the broader society by promoting sustainable digital practices and ensuring that SMEs can play a stronger role in a digitally interconnected economy.
A commitment to sustainable digitalisation
The primary objective of block4SME is to address the lack of VET-related training and to promote digital competencies as a cornerstone of SME resilience and growth. By systematically identifying knowledge and understanding gaps in blockchain adoption, the project is committed to bridging these divides with a comprehensive, accessible training package that supports the EU’s digital priorities. Block4SME ultimately aims to increase the adoption rate of blockchain technology within the tourism and agri-food sectors, offering a replicable model for other industries in the future.
For more information, please contact the block4SME team.
Download press release Block4SME Erasmus+ project
Gearing up SMEs for value chain digitalization through blockchain-based distributed trust
2023-1-CY01-KA220-VET-000151955
www.block4sme.training
www.facebook.com/block4sme
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.