The European Commission is investing €112 million in research and innovation in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and quantum technologies. Over €65 million will be allocated to AI, with €50 million dedicated to developing new ways of combining data and expanding large AI model capabilities. Another €15 million will be used to develop reliable and transparent AI systems. Additionally, €40 million will be invested in quantum technologies, including €25 million for a pan-European network of quantum gravimeters. The remaining funds will support projects that uphold European values and increase the EU’s influence in global ICT standardisation.
European Commission’s Investment in AI and Quantum Research
The European Commission has announced a significant investment of €112 million in research and innovation in the fields of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and quantum technologies. This funding is part of the Horizon Europe’s 2023-2024 digital, industrial, and space work programme. The Commission’s investment aims to support Europe’s research excellence in these fields and ensure that the EU remains at the forefront of the global technology race.
Over €65 million of the total investment will be allocated to AI. Of this, €50 million will be dedicated to projects that aim to develop new methods of combining data and expanding the capabilities of large AI models. These projects are expected to enhance the applicability of AI across new domains. An additional €15 million will be invested in developing robust and transparent AI systems, with the goal of improving their reliability and providing meaningful insights into their decision-making processes. These investments align with the AI Act and the human-centric European approach to AI.
Quantum Technologies: A New Frontier
The Commission will also invest €40 million to boost research into cutting-edge quantum technologies. A significant portion of this investment, €25 million, will be used for the creation of a pan-European network of quantum gravimeters, which are gravity sensors. This network is expected to provide high-precision gravity measurements, which are crucial for sectors such as Earth observation and civil engineering.
An additional €15 million will be invested in transnational research and development projects in the field of next-generation quantum technologies. The aim of these projects is to foster synergies among European stakeholders and ensure that the EU remains a leader in the global quantum technology race.
Upholding European Values in the Digital Transformation
In addition to the investments in AI and quantum technologies, the Commission will allocate €7.5 million to projects that support European values and put people at the centre of the digital transformation. These projects aim to increase the EU’s influence in global ICT standardisation.
A further €6 million will be invested to strengthen Europe’s engagement in global ICT standardisation. This investment aims to support the participation of European experts in international standard-setting bodies, thereby promoting the EU’s interests and values in the development of global technical specifications and standards.
Digital Humanism: A New Approach
The remaining €1.5 million will be invested in exploring Digital Humanism, a project that places people at the centre of the digital transformation. This approach emphasises the need for cross-disciplinary collaboration to ensure that the digital realm upholds European standards of law, social economy, and fundamental rights.
Conclusion
The European Commission’s substantial investment in AI and quantum technologies reflects its commitment to maintaining Europe’s position as a leader in these fields. By supporting research and innovation, the Commission aims to ensure that the EU remains at the forefront of the global technology race. The investments also underscore the EU’s commitment to a human-centric approach to AI and the digital transformation, with a focus on upholding European values and standards.
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