The “3D-4CH” project was officially launched with a successful kick-off meeting in mid-February, 2025, bringing together a dedicated consortium committed to advancing cultural heritage preservation through 3D, AI, and XR technologies. This ambitious EU-funded initiative will establish an Online Competence Centre for 3D, empowering cultural heritage professionals across Europe and Ukraine with cutting-edge tools, training, and expertise.
The online meeting brought together 20 partner organizations, including leading institutions and experts from across the EU and Ukraine. Project Coordinator Marco Medici (INCEPTION) delivered an opening address, setting the stage for productive discussions. Rehana Schwinninger-Ladak, Head of Unit (DG CNECT UNIT G2), and Fulgencio Sanmartin, Project Officer (DG CNECT UNIT G2), shared strategic insights on Interactive Technologies, Digital for Culture and Education.
During the session, project partners introduced their organizations and outlined their roles in shaping the Online Competence Centre in 3D for Cultural Heritage. The Volyn Foundation joined as an affiliated partner through CARARE and plays an important role in cooperation with Ukrainian cultural heritage institutions. As part of its mission, the Volyn Foundation will contribute to integrating Ukrainian cultural heritage institutions into the European digital ecosystem, facilitating access to essential resources and training opportunities.
During the kick-off meeting, key discussions focused on the project’s goals, including developing and deploying the Online Competence Centre for 3D as a central hub for training, collaboration, and best practices; ensuring long-term impact through open access, interoperability, and sustainable digital heritage preservation.
A core priority of 3D-4CH is its deep commitment to supporting Ukrainian cultural heritage institutions, recognizing the urgent need to protect and preserve Ukraine’s rich cultural legacy amidst the ongoing Russian aggression against Ukraine. Building on initiatives such as “SUM — Save Ukraine Monuments,” the project will provide Ukrainian institutions with crucial expertise, training, and digital resources.
Additionally, 3D-4CH will create a dedicated pipeline for integrating Ukrainian 3D cultural content into the European digital heritage space, guaranteeing lasting visibility and accessibility. By fostering collaboration between Ukrainian and European partners, the project strengthens cultural resilience and secures the future of Ukraine’s heritage.
The meeting concluded with a clear roadmap outlining the next steps. Partners were assigned specific responsibilities, and progress will be tracked using clear milestones. The meeting fostered a strong sense of collaboration and commitment, ensuring all partners remained aligned in achieving the project’s ambitious goals.
