Thanks to INSAIT, the modernised supercomputer at Sofia Tech Park, the forthcoming BRAIN++ AI Factory, the Centre for Innovation in Defence and the National Innovation Fund, we are strengthening Bulgaria’s position as a regional technology leader, Deputy Minister Danovsky told the OECD Committee.
Deputy Minister for Innovation and Growth Martin Danovsky attended a meeting of the OECD Economic and Development Review Committee (EDRC) in Paris.
A key focus for Bulgaria was the presentation and discussion of the Economic Survey of Bulgaria 2025 report. The report assesses the economy, the financial system, and policies across a broad range of areas, demonstrating that the country is aligned with the Organisation’s core principles. The document is crucial to Bulgaria’s OECD accession process, as it reflects the progress made, the extent to which recommendations have been implemented, and the priorities set for the country’s economic development.
The Committee’s review represents a major step toward Bulgaria’s ambition for full OECD membership and reflects the positive trajectory of sustainable economic development. Such reviews are conducted every two years.
During the meeting, Deputy Minister Danovsky outlined the development of a comprehensive innovation framework in Bulgaria, based on a strategic vision, targeted investments and public-private partnerships.
Danovsky also noted that targeted measures are being actively implemented to encourage more enterprises to adopt advanced digital technologies. “With internet access at 98% of the EU average and digital public services for businesses scoring 91.9 out of 100, we have built the infrastructure needed for transformation,” he said.
He informed the OECD about the restructured National Innovation Fund, which will be among the main instruments for stimulating research and development (R&D). At the same time, the Fund of Funds’ new Technology Transfer Fund has a budget of EUR 56 million, aimed at high-risk, high-return projects in the field of deep tech.
The meeting also highlighted the creation of a National Technology Transfer Network, supported by regional offices that will act as links between research institutions and industry.
“Our strategic assets are already positioning us as an emerging innovation hub. The development of BgGPT by INSAIT demonstrates our capabilities in artificial intelligence, while the Discoverer supercomputer and the forthcoming BRAIN++ AI Factory confirm Bulgaria as a regional technology leader,” he added.
The Centre for Innovation in Defence adds another dimension, ensuring that Bulgaria’s technological development serves both economic and strategic objectives, in line with NATO and EU priorities.
“We view the OECD recommendations as opportunities,” Danovsky also said, highlighting as goals a higher level of digitalisation of enterprises within three years and an innovation ecosystem in which every scientific achievement has a clear pathway to market impact.
The delegation was led by Deputy Minister of Finance Metodi Metodiev and also included Deputy Minister of Economy and Industry Doncho Barbalov, Deputy Minister of Energy Krassimir Nenov, Deputy Minister of Labour and Social Policy Gergana Aleksova-Velikova, and Deputy Minister of Education and Science Nikolay Vitanov.
