site.btaUPDATED Merging Two Ministries Will Put an End to Artificial Division of Innovation and Digitalization, says Innovation Minister

Minister of Innovation and Digital Transformation Ivan Vassilev presented the new structure of the ministry at a news briefing on Wednesday. "By merging two ministries, we will put an end to the artificial division of innovation and digitalization", he said.

“According to him, the merger will create an institution with one voice that moves at the speed of business, not bureaucracy. He added that the government's policy is clear - faster and sustainable economic growth based on innovation.

Vassilev pointed out that he found two ministries with 19 directorates, 589 employees and 70 vacant positions and duplicated functions, as well as a low level of digital services. The new structure of the ministry will consist of 8 directorates and 120 positions. 

According to Vassilev, the innovation ecosystem is fragmented, the tools for promoting companies do not always work in sync, entrepreneurs do not have a clear process to follow in order to develop their idea into a successful business. Tens of billions have been spent over the years with unsatisfactory results. "Next week, we will also present the first version of the Sigma platform, which we are developing, in which you will see in an understandable way where all this money went", he said.

He stated that his vision for Bulgaria is one that turns the country into the best place to start and develop a business with high added value. "By 2030, Bulgaria will establish itself as a European leader in the digitalization of the public sector, an innovation hub where the administration works for citizens and business", said the minister.

Vassilev added that in order to achieve this vision, several strategic priorities have been identified such as the construction of an innovation economy and increasing the pace of technological growth. According to him, the state should become an accelerator of innovation and it should now be the norm to be able to create a business in one day.