VEZILKA · VEZILKA - The North Macedonia AI Antenna Factory

The VEZILKA project establishes the national AI Factory Antenna (AIFA) for North Macedonia, formally linked to the established Pharos AI Factory through a strategic partnership between FCSE, UKIM and GRNET. VEZILKA's mission is to accelerate the adoption of trustworthy AI by developing tangible solutions in key strategic sectors aligned with national priorities and by cultivating a highly skilled national workforce. The project will leverage strong national assets, including valuable public and private sector datasets and the expertise of FCSE, to co-create AI-powered tools for predictive analytics, diagnostics, and operational optimization.To achieve these goals, VEZILKA will leverage its strategic partnership with Pharos to gain access to the Daedalus supercomputer, providing the essential high-performance computing power for advanced AI model development. This powerful support system will be made accessible to Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) through dedicated programs, enabling them to innovate and develop new AI-driven products. Concurrently, VEZILKA will collaborate directly with public administration bodies to co-create solutions that enhance the efficiency of public services. Furthermore, it will leverage its technical expertise and practical experience to advise on the formulation of relevant national AI strategies, data governance, and ethical guidelines. Underpinning these collaborations is a comprehensive skills development plan designed to cultivate the necessary local talent, ensuring a sustainable pipeline of experts for both industry and government and creating a dynamic, self-sustaining innovation ecosystem.