The municipality of Gabrovo has secured nearly 17 million leva in funding to develop an "innovation valley", local authorities have announced. The project includes the transformation of the former Radion Umnikov School into a centre for digital skills and innovation, as well as the establishment of an innovation zone at Gabrovo’s Technical University.

The school building, a listed cultural monument dating back to the late 19th century, will be fully renovated and equipped to host training in robotics and automation. It will also feature new halls, tech laboratories, and spaces dedicated to virtual reality learning.

Gabrovo’s Technical University, a partner in the initiative, will develop a comprehensive innovation zone on its campus. This will include a "House of the Future" offering technology rooms, a seminar hall and office spaces.

Plans also involve the construction of a manufacturing hall for start-up companies, where they can test innovative products. The site will provide training for young entrepreneurs and support the development of new services.

Furthermore, the project envisages the refurbishment of a former restaurant in the city's commercial centre, known locally as the 'Sixth Precinct', which will be transformed into a co-working and shared innovation space.

Photos: Gabrovo municipality