WASABI Project: Empowering the Future of Manufacturing through AI

Articles, News

A New Vision for Human-AI Collaboration

WASABI (White-label shop for digital intelligent assistance and human-AI collaboration in manufacturing) is a European innovation project funded under the Horizon Europe programme.

It aims to transform how small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) approach digitalization by making advanced, AI-powered support tools more accessible and easy to use on the factory floor.

The project focuses on human-centric digital intelligent assistants (DIAs) that help workers interact with complex systems through natural, conversational interfaces.

These tools are designed to reduce the skill gap and make advanced software more approachable for all levels of workers.

Boosting Manufacturing and Remanufacturing

WASABI places special emphasis on supporting both manufacturing and remanufacturing processes.

By integrating AI technologies into everyday operations, the project helps companies increase productivity while promoting circular economy principles.

Remanufacturing—the practice of restoring used or end-of-life products to like-new condition—is a key part of the project’s sustainability strategy.

WASABI offers digital tools that guide workers in analyzing situations, planning actions, and monitoring impacts, which are essential for efficient, low-waste production cycles.

Digital Marketplace and AI Skill Packages

WASABI also includes the creation of a federated, white-label digital marketplace.

This platform provides access to customizable AI assistants, training modules, and decision-support tools tailored to different business needs.

The goal is to make cutting-edge technology available to SMEs and mid-caps without requiring deep technical expertise.

These resources will help organizations reach their digital and environmental goals, and ensure that both production and decision-making processes are supported by smart, data-driven insights.

A Strong European Partnership

The WASABI project is coordinated by Innovalia Association (Spain) and includes a consortium of 17 partners from across Europe.

This diverse group brings together expertise from research, industry, and academia:

  • Innovalia Association (Spain – Coordinator)
  • BIBA – Bremer Institut für Produktion und Logistik GmbH (Germany)
  • University of Modena and Reggio Emilia – UNIMORE (Italy)
  • Syxis VSI (Lithuania)
  • SINTEF AS (Norway)
  • TTTech Industrial Automation AG (Austria)
  • Atlantis Engineering (Greece)
  • Institute of Communication and Computer Systems – ICCS (Greece)
  • MEWS Innovation (France)
  • REI Lab S.R.L. (Italy)
  • KU Leuven (Belgium)
  • I-DEAL S.R.L.C.R. (Italy)
  • University of Bremen (Germany)
  • Trimek S.A. (Spain)
  • Croma Gio.Batta España S.A. (Spain)
  • Publiservic Canarias S.L.U. (Spain)
  • Silk Biomaterials S.R.L. (Italy)

WASABI is paving the way for smarter, more collaborative, and environmentally sustainable manufacturing across Europe. By lowering entry barriers to digital transformation and promoting circular production models, the project empowers businesses and workers alike to thrive in the Industry 5.0 era.