European Commission Launches Billion-Euro Investment in AI Strategies
brussel, vrijdag, 10 oktober 2025.
The European Commission has unveiled two new strategies aimed at accelerating the deployment of artificial intelligence (AI) in business and scientific research. With an investment of 1 billion euros, the EU aims to bolster its competitiveness and reduce dependency on American and Chinese technology. The strategies focus on critical sectors such as healthcare, mobility, and defence, and include measures for research, innovation, and education. A key aspect is the emphasis on ethical guidelines and safety standards to enhance trust in AI technology.
AI in Science Strategy: Europe as a Scientific Hub
In addition to the Apply AI strategy, the European Commission has also launched the AI in Science Strategy. This strategy aims to position Europe as a hub for AI-driven scientific research. Central to this is the development of RAISE (Resource for AI Science in Europe), a pan-European research infrastructure for AI, similar in design and ambition to CERN. RAISE provides 58 million euros for Networks of Excellence and Doctoral Networks and 600 million euros from Horizon Europe for computing power. The annual budget increase for AI in science is scaled up to over €3 billion [3].
Apply AI Strategy: Accelerating AI Adoption
The Apply AI strategy focuses on accelerating AI adoption in critical sectors of the European economy. Specifically, it involves establishing AI-driven screening networks in healthcare, supporting robotics in flexible production processes, and forming a coalition of cities to create test environments for autonomous vehicles. Government services will receive support through open-source tools designed to facilitate AI integration. Special attention is given to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which will be assisted via so-called Experience Centres for AI. These centres provide access to AI infrastructure and testing facilities [1][2].
Financial Support and Collaboration
For the Apply AI strategy, €1 billion in EU funding has been reserved. Additional support is expected from national governments and the private sector. The funding primarily comes from existing EU research projects such as Horizon Europe and the Digital Europe Programme. The strategy encourages an ‘AI-first’ approach, so that businesses see AI as a key component in addressing challenges. The Apply AI Alliance, launched by the Commission, serves as a coordination forum for AI providers, industry, public sector, academics, social partners, and civil society organisations [2][4].
Ethical Guidelines and Safety Standards
A crucial aspect of both strategies is the focus on ethical guidelines and safety standards. The European Commission aims to increase trust in AI technology by introducing clear regulations and compliance controls. The AI Act, currently under consideration, provides a framework for safe, transparent, and ethical use of AI. The strategies build on the AI Continent Action Plan and support the implementation of the AI Act. The AI Act Service Desk assists with the implementation of the AI Act and provides support to businesses in understanding and applying the requirements [2][5].
Practical Examples and Future Perspectives
Practical examples of successful AI applications in information and public communication are already visible. Chatbots are being used for public service delivery, enabling citizens to receive faster and more efficient assistance. Personalised information provision helps reach various target groups and improves information transfer. AI-driven awareness campaigns make it possible to measure and optimise the effectiveness of communication actions. However, challenges around privacy, inclusivity, and reliability remain relevant. It is crucial that these aspects are carefully addressed to ensure the integrity and acceptance of AI technology [5][6].