The growing maturity of edge computing, combined with high-speed 5G connectivity, is fueling the large-scale rollout of private edge systems — unlocking innovation across numerous industries and strengthening their digital transformation. As these technologies evolve, service delivery and platform software are poised to become key contributors, adding value through automation and smart functionality directly at the network’s edge. Realizing the full potential of edge intelligence, however, involves more than just boosting IoT processing and reducing latency; it requires collaborative platform environments that enable sophisticated services and foster growth across the entire value chain.

COP-PILOT, an Innovation Action funded by the EU’s Horizon program, aims to develop a Collaborative Open Platform (COP) framework for orchestration across service domains. The platform is designed to bring together cutting-edge AI tools, SLA-aware automation, and a resilient, secure infrastructure, while demonstrating its capabilities through real-world applications in sectors such as energy, smart cities, agriculture, and manufacturing — all in service of cross-sector collaboration, innovation, and measurable societal impact.