A European Framework with Deep Local Roots
In the heart of the Alps, where technology often feels distant and nature speaks louder than data, a different kind of transformation is taking shape.
Dolomist has started a journey within the EDIH – European Digital Innovation Hub program, which supports companies in developing applied digital innovation. In this phase, we are working with EDIH partners through the Orientation service — the first step in strengthening our digital tools and capabilities in service of the territory.
This process is a real opportunity for us to continue investing in place-based digital innovation, generating meaningful value for people, culture, and fragile landscapes. At Dolomist, we’ve always believed that technology should serve to protect what matters, not accelerate its disappearance.
A Digital Maturity Score That Sets a Benchmark
As part of the EDIH program, we completed the Digital Maturity Assessment (DMA) — an in-depth analysis of how we use technology to support growth, resilience, and public value.
Result: 84% – ADVANCED.
This places us not only among the most digitally mature players in our sector but also well above national and European benchmarks:
Dolomist vs. Industry & EU Benchmarks:
- Dolomist: 84%
- Italy travel & tourism avg.: 52%
- EU travel & tourism avg.: 39%
- EU micro-enterprises avg.: 36%
- Micro tourism companies in Italy: 43%
- Overall EU average: 40%
This is not about outperforming others. It’s about proving that innovation in mountain and rural areas is not only possible — it can lead the way.
Why We Joined: Rethinking Digital With Purpose
This journey confirmed our vision but also pushed us to go deeper — to challenge our assumptions and lead with intention.
In a world where digital often means automation, extraction, or hyper-efficiency, we asked a different question:
Can digital align with the slower rhythms of the mountains?
Can it support local economies, deepen human connections, and protect ecosystems — instead of standardising, consuming, and accelerating?
The DMA gave us a valuable chance to reflect, rethink, and reimagine what technology should look like in fragile and culturally rich environments. For us, digital transformation isn’t a race — it’s a design challenge and a long-term responsibility.
What We’re Building With EDIH Support
This support is not just a technical opportunity — it’s a chance to design digital solutions responsibly and in line with our values.
We’re investing in building an ecosystem of digital tools, co-designed with scientific partners from NOI Techpark and innovation clusters in South Tyrol. These collaborations are already shaping our next phase of development:
- AI-powered trail recommendations to reduce overcrowding and respond in real time to environmental change
- Predictive analytics and data governance to help public stakeholders manage mountain territories responsibly
- Human-centric digital interfaces to empower guides, operators, and local communities with greater visibility and digital skills
“Digital isn’t the goal. It’s what enables us to protect authenticity, live more sustainably, and stay connected to what really matters.” — Matteo Di Lisciandro, Board Member, Dolomist
The People Behind the Code
Every line of code we write is grounded in shared values.
- Matteo Di Lisciandro, Board Member at Dolomist, leads innovation strategy and shapes our long-term vision, supporting expansion into regions where nature and culture are most at risk. His leadership turns mountain values into an institutional roadmap.
- Francesco Vezzani, Developer at Dolomist, builds the tools that bring this vision to life. From AI to digital infrastructure, he ensures our systems are ethical, scalable, and human-centered.
Together with the digital team, they are building solutions that enable people to experience and protect mountain territories in more authentic and sustainable ways.
Why Institutions Should Take Notice
This work isn’t just for Dolomist — it’s a model.
We believe the future of outdoor economies will be shaped by agile organizations working in close partnership with public institutions to co-design sustainable solutions. Digital must not displace, but regenerate.
We are open to collaborations with:
- Regional and national tourism boards
- EDIH and DIH networks
- EU-funded programs for rural innovation
- Local municipalities and development agencies
Dolomist proves that with the right vision and the right partners, even micro-enterprises can drive large-scale change.
Let’s Shape the Future of the Mountains Together
Our mission has always been rooted in the land. Now, with the support of EDIH and our scientific partners, we are building a future where digital empowers without overwhelming.
The future of mountain travel won’t be decided in boardrooms. It will be built step by step, in connection with place, people, and values.
Acknowledgements
We would like to thank Ambra Barbini of IDM Südtirol – Alto Adige for her guidance throughout this process. Her support was instrumental in aligning Dolomist’s strategy with the values and structure of the EDIH program, and in connecting us with a broader innovation ecosystem.
A heartfelt thanks also to the EDIH network for recognising that digital transformation can (and must) be a tool for regeneration, not replacement — especially in territories that require care, vision, and long-term commitment.
