The European Commission, in collaboration with Bulgarian Commissioner Ekaterina Zaharieva, is supporting the establishment of a Hydrogen Centre of Excellence in Stara Zagora named H2START. The project, funded with EUR 15 million from the Horizon Europe Programme along with national co-financing, aims to transform Stara Zagora into one of Europe's leading hydrogen valleys. This initiative is expected to produce 500 tons of hydrogen annually, creating job opportunities, fostering skills development, and attracting quality investments. The Centre of Excellence will feature modern laboratories open to researchers, innovators, startups, and small to medium-sized enterprises, with a focus on strengthening higher education and equipping Bulgarian youth with future-oriented skills. Partners in this project include Trakia University, BGH2A, Politecnico di Torino, and CNR ITAE. The official launch was accompanied by a professional discussion on hydrogen technologies in Sofia, highlighting the potential of green hydrogen to enhance air quality, reduce CO2 emissions, and drive economic prosperity. Stara Zagora's strategic location makes it an ideal platform to demonstrate the benefits of hydrogen technologies, with the aim of shaping a sustainable and competitive future. The project envisions kickstarting a hydrogen-based economy within the region and beyond, ultimately transforming Bulgaria's energy landscape.