About the DataTwin Project

DataTwin is a project dedicated to advancing data space interoperability as a cornerstone of Europe’s digital future. Coordinated by the GATE Institute at Sofia University, in collaboration with the Insight Centre for Data Analytics (Ireland) and SINTEF (Norway), the project runs for three years and builds research and innovation capacity in Bulgaria, bridging the gap with Europe’s leading data ecosystems.

By combining excellence in data science, artificial intelligence, and digital infrastructure, DataTwin establishes a new research group on Data Space Interoperability at GATE, develops a visionary scientific strategy, and implements joint research projects in key sectors such as urban development, mobility, healthcare, and agriculture.

Beyond research, the project delivers advanced training programmes, summer schools, and hackathons for early-stage researchers and professionals, while engaging policymakers, industry, and society to accelerate the uptake of interoperable data spaces. DataTwin also produces policy recommendations to guide national strategies and supports Bulgaria’s integration into the common European data space.

Through strong partnerships and knowledge transfer, DataTwin contributes to building a sustainable innovation ecosystem, empowering public authorities, businesses, and citizens to harness the value of data in a sovereign, secure, and fair way.

Project Overview

Full Title: Data Space Interoperability Enabler

Acronym: DataTwin

Duration: 36 months (3 years)

Coordinator: GATE Institute (Bulgaria) - Sofia University St. Kliment Ohridski

Partners: National University of Ireland Galway – INSIGHT (Ireland), SINTEF (Norway)

Key Objectives

The DataTwin project strengthens Bulgaria’s role in the European Data Strategy by tackling the challenge of interoperability between European Data Spaces. Its main objective is to develop solutions that enable secure and seamless data exchange across borders and sectors, while ensuring trust, sovereignty, and compliance with EU regulations.

The project supports Bulgaria’s integration into the EU’s digital ecosystem, empowering public authorities, businesses, and research institutions to participate actively in the data economy. By building frameworks, tools, and demonstrators in domains such as smart cities, mobility, health, and agriculture, DataTwin showcases how interoperable data sharing can generate both societal and economic value.

Another focus is fostering collaboration and innovation. By engaging universities, research institutes, technology providers, and policymakers, the project promotes trusted data governance, supports SMEs and startups in creating new services, and strengthens evidence-based policymaking.

Ultimately, DataTwin contributes to Europe’s digital transformation by advancing interoperability, boosting competitiveness, and promoting sustainable, citizen-oriented digital services.

Expected Outcomes

• A fully operational Data Space Interoperability Research Group at GATE.

• Visionary Scientific Strategy guiding future R&I.

• Joint research projects demonstrating interoperability in urban, mobility, health, and agriculture data spaces.

• Policy recommendation white paper for Bulgarian public institutions.

• Advanced training materials & curricula for researchers, students, professionals, and entrepreneurs.

• Strengthened networks among Bulgaria, Ireland, and Norway, plus broader EU stakeholders.

• Cultural change & awareness in Bulgaria about the benefits of data spaces and sovereign data sharing.