European Commission invests 1.3bn euros in AI and cybersecurity
The European Commission is over the next three years allocating 1.3 billion euros to roll out AI, cybersecurity, cloud services and other digital technologies of strategic importance. It has on Friday approved the work programme of the Digital Europe Programme for the period until 2029.
One of the Commission’s priorities is the deployment of generative artificial intelligence (AI) applications in business and the public sector. This includes support for so-called European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs), which provide companies and public authorities with access to technical expertise and testing of new digital applications.
Another focus is on strengthening cybersecurity, including the development of a European Cybersecurity Reserve of trusted service providers that can intervene quickly in incidents involving, for instance, submarine cables and hospitals. Major investments are also scheduled for digital skills education and strengthening Destination Earth, the digital model that helps prepare for climate change and natural disasters.
Next month, the Commission will launch the first calls to submit projects. Digital Europe is the first European funding programme entirely focused on bringing digital technology to citizens and businesses. Over the entire multi-annual budget from 2021 to 2027, the programme has a budget of more than 8 billion euros.
Executive Vice-President of the European Commission for Tech Sovereignty and Security and Democracy Henna Virkkunen © BELGA PHOTO HANS LUCAS COLLECTION
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