How early-stage funding paved the way for robotics innovation and European collaborations

Elvez is a dynamic Slovenian SME that has transformed its deep manufacturing roots into a foundation for innovation, thanks to strategic engagement in EU-funded initiatives. Specialising in plastic components, cable harnesses, and metallisation, the company has evolved from a regional supplier into a contributor to advanced European research projects. This article reflects on their story - told through an interview with ddr. Žiga Gosar, Director of Research, Development, and Technology at Elvez - and illustrates the role that Financial Support to Third Parties (FSTP) can play in SMEs’ growth.

Founded in 1991 near Ljubljana, Elvez is a family-owned business led by Mrs. Simona Petrič. The company currently employs 150 people and generates an annual turnover of €18 million. Its client base spans global automotive manufacturers, where quality standards and technical innovation are non-negotiable. Elvez offers complex plastic injection moulding, high-precision cable systems, and metallised components, often for mission-critical functions in vehicles. In recent years, the firm has also become increasingly known for its ability to integrate smart technologies into traditional manufacturing workflows.

"We have always believed in manufactured excellence delivered. Participating in FSTP and Horizon projects allowed us to extend that philosophy to robotics, AI, and smart manufacturing," says ddr. Žiga Gosar.

It all started with a chance meeting

The company’s involvement in EU research began almost unexpectedly. During a visit to the Jožef Stefan Institute to explore technical improvements to plasma polymerisation processes, ddr. Gosar happened upon Prof. Dr. Igor Kovač. A brief hallway exchange led to Elvez’s inclusion in the ReconCell project - a key collaboration that introduced the company to EU-funded robotics and automation.

"We joined as a use case provider and eventually built a prototype robot workcell. That collaboration introduced us to EU-funded robotics," explains ddr. Gosar.

This early engagement laid the foundation for deeper involvement in FSTP and research-driven innovation.

Building a reputation through applied innovation

From that point onward, Elvez became a sought-after industry partner for collaborative research. The company participated in multiple FSTP projects, such as ESMERA, REMODEL, DIH-HERO and CHANGE2TWIN. In each case, Elvez contributed real-world use cases in automotive manufacturing, allowing academic and research partners to test their innovations in a live industrial environment.

"Each project added new insight - from robotics assembly to automation and machine vision. We translated those into new industrial applications," says ddr. Gosar.

These projects weren’t just learning exercises. They helped Elvez embed digital tools, robotics, and AI capabilities into its daily operations.

Key EU projects at a glance:

• ReconCell: Prototype robot workcell and EU open call entry point.
• ESMERA & REMODEL: Automation strategies for wire harness production.
• DIH-HERO: Medical robotics - robotic ultrasound as a cross-sector application.
• HIA: Process automation through sensor integration in plasma polymerisation.
• CHANGE2TWIN & eTwin: Laying the groundwork for digitalisation and smart manufacturing.
• WASABI (2024): VR-based workforce training and Elvez’s first project as lead coordinator.

In 2024 alone, Elvez submitted over 20 proposals, securing co-funding for two. For the first time, the company is not just a partner but the coordinator of a European project - proof of its maturity in the R&D landscape.

"After 10 years, we are finally leading a project. This represents an important moment for us."

Responding to industry pressures with strategic direction

The automotive industry has undergone profound changes. Increasing demands for lightweight, safe, and electronic-ready components require rapid adaptation. Meanwhile, crises from COVID-19 to energy price hikes and workforce shortages have reshaped supply chains and production methods across Europe.

"We adapted by improving energy use, building our internal capabilities, and committing to automation. FSTP gave us the tools to do this quickly and effectively." says ddr. Gosar.

FSTP-funded collaborations enabled Elvez to pilot technologies like collaborative robots and AI systems under real factory conditions - accelerating its competitiveness.

Leadership with vision

Strategic evolution at Elvez would not have been possible without long-term leadership.

"The Owner and General Manager of ELVEZ, Mrs. Simona Petrič, also served as the President of the Assembly of the Slovenian Strategic Research and Innovation Partnership - Factories of the Future (SRIP FoF) from 2018 to 2022, actively contributing to the national strategy for advanced manufacturing and innovation."

This alignment between company direction and national industrial strategy has placed Elvez in the center of smart manufacturing in Slovenia and beyond.

Advice for SMEs considering FSTP

"Start small, but start smart," says ddr. Gosar. "FSTP is a great way to begin. Understand the funding context, be visible, and show how your company can contribute. That’s how doors open."

The company’s story shows that even casual connections and modest funding can lead to lasting transformation when paired with technical depth and strategic intent.

Q&A snapshot

Q: How did Elvez transition to larger EU-funded projects?
A: We built internal experience in proposal writing, reporting, and technical planning. The reputation we developed from earlier projects gave us the confidence and credibility to join and lead more complex proposals.

Q: What are your future goals in EU projects?
A: We are focusing on digitalisation, AI-supported production, and sustainability. We also aim to deepen collaboration through Digital Innovation Hubs.

Q: What makes Elvez stand out?
A: Our mix of strong industry knowledge and openness to new technology partnerships. We bring real-world impact into innovation projects.

A case study in growth through EU support

Elvez’s path from a traditional SME to a confident research partner and now a project coordinator is not just impressive - it’s a model for how EU mechanisms like FSTP can support meaningful industry transformation. Their ability to convert early opportunities into structured innovation efforts is a clear example for other manufacturing companies aiming to integrate advanced technology.

Elvez is a valued Supportive Partner of FundingBox. Their progress reflects the strong potential of early-stage funding when used with purpose, vision, and cooperation.

Explore Elvez’s innovative R&D initiatives:
🔗 ReconCell
🔗 REMODEL
🔗 imPURE
🔗 ELVEZ R&D Projects