As global competition for digital technologies intensifies, the European Commission is stepping up investments to ensure Europe remains at the forefront of innovation.
The EU announced a major investment of €307.3 million to strengthen its leadership in digital technologies and launched two new funding calls under the Digital, Industry and Space cluster of the Horizon Europe programme.
The move marks a decisive push to accelerate innovation in AI, data services and emerging technologies, while strengthening the EU’s strategic autonomy in an increasingly competitive global digital environment.
Driving massive funding for AI and data innovation
The bulk of the funding, 221.8 million euros, is targeted at the development of trustworthy AI and advanced data-driven services.
The call focuses on strengthening Europe’s ability to design and deploy human-centred, safe and ethical AI solutions, while reducing dependence on non-European technologies.
The funded projects support the Commission’s AI strategy and span a wide range of digital technologies, including robotics, quantum computing, photonics and immersive virtual worlds.
These sectors are seen as key enablers of industrial transformation and future economic growth across Europe.
A notable element of this call is the allocation of over 40 million euros to the Open Internet Stack Initiative.
This initiative aims to strengthen Europe’s sovereign digital commons by supporting both end-user applications and core technologies within the digital stack and increasing control over critical digital infrastructure.
Supporting strategic autonomy in emerging technologies
The second call has a budget of 85.5 million euros and is dedicated to opening up strategic autonomy in raw materials as well as digital and emerging technologies.
Prioritize research into next-generation AI agents, advanced robotics for industrial and service environments, and innovative materials with enhanced sensing capabilities.
By supporting these technologies, the European Commission aims to improve the prospects of European industry and enable more resilient supply chains, especially in areas of increasing global competition and geopolitical dependence.
Why digital technology is important for the EU
Digital technologies are central to the EU’s economic resilience, security and long-term competitiveness.
As global markets become more data-driven and automated, Europe’s ability to develop its own AI systems, digital infrastructure and advanced materials is critical to maintaining its technological sovereignty.
These investments also support the EU’s broader policy objectives, such as the green transition, industrial modernization and the creation of quality jobs.
Human-centered digital technologies can improve public services, increase enterprise productivity and ensure that innovation is aligned with European values such as privacy, transparency and sustainability.
Increase your competitiveness through Horizon Europe
These funding calls are in line with the Commission’s competitiveness compass and strengthen the strategic role of Horizon Europe’s Cluster 4.
This cluster is specifically designed to accelerate Europe’s leadership in AI, quantum technologies, future digital networks and virtual worlds.
This call is open to companies, public authorities, research institutes and other organizations from EU member states and associated countries.
Applications can be submitted until April 15, 2026, and represent an important opportunity for interested parties to help shape Europe’s digital future.
Source link
