The European Commission will invest €1.3 billion via the Digital Europe Programme from 2025 to 2027, focusing on advancing artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and digital skills. Key initiatives include enhancing generative AI, supporting Digital Innovation Hubs, bolstering the Destination Earth project, and fostering cyber resilience. Upcoming funding calls will invite participation from EU businesses and public sectors.
The European Commission is set to invest €1.3 billion to enhance critical technologies pivotal for Europe’s future on the global stage. This funding, part of the Digital Europe Programme (DIGITAL), will be directed towards advancing artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, cloud and data technology, and improving digital skills from 2025 to 2027.
Key areas of focus under this initiative include enhancing the accessibility of generative AI applications, especially in health sectors, and developing immersive environments, or ‘virtual worlds.’ The funding will support the AI Act’s implementation, ensuring systematic integration of energy-efficient common data spaces. These advancements are crucial for the AI Factories initiative that will create generative AI models for various sectors.
Another priority is the support for the European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs), forming a network that bridges companies and public entities with technical expertise and resources. This will drive AI adoption across Europe, empowering both private and public organizations to harness the latest technological innovations.
Further, the investment aims to fortify the Destination Earth initiative, which creates a digital model of Earth for climate adaptation and disaster management. Enhanced funding will enable wider access for researchers, thus bolstering efforts against climate crises.
Strengthening cyber resilience is a critical ambition, with funding for cybersecurity solutions like the EU Cybersecurity Reserve. These measures will fortify the security of vital infrastructures, including healthcare and communication networks.
The initiative also focuses on elevating digital skills within EU educational and training institutions, ensuring a robust talent pipeline. Additionally, it promotes the new EU Digital Identity Wallet and its infrastructure while advocating for broader adoption among Member States.
Moreover, there are efforts to transform the public sector by developing high-quality, efficient, and interoperable digital public services. The Strategic Technologies for Europe Platform (STEP) will further stimulate innovation, granting the STEP Seal to projects that seek public and private funding.
Upcoming DIGITAL calls, anticipated in April 2025, will offer opportunities for businesses and public entities from EU, EFTA/EEA countries, and others linked to DIGITAL to apply for funding. Detailed information regarding these calls can be found on the EU Funding & Tenders Portal.
DIGITAL, with a budget of €8.1 billion from the Multiannual Financial Framework 2021-2027, is the EU’s pioneering funding program aimed at propelling digital technology accessibility for businesses and citizens alike. This initiative not only focuses on deployment but also complements efforts across various EU programs, ensuring a cohesive strategy for Europe’s digital evolution.
The European Commission’s investment of €1.3 billion signals a robust commitment to advancing digital technology in Europe. By prioritizing AI, cybersecurity, and digital skills while fostering innovation through collaborative networks, this initiative aims to strengthen the continent’s technological sovereignty and enhance resilience against future challenges. As the DIGITAL programme unfolds, the potential for improved public services and a skilled workforce emerges, steering Europe towards a digitally empowered future.
Original Source: europeansting.com
