Europe focuses on AI, sustainability and green business: With the new “AI First” strategy, the EU strengthens industry, research and SMEs – TransformIT Europe shows the trends live.
By Jan Nintemann and Jochen Siegle
The European Union is driving the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in business and research. With the new “Apply AI” and “AI in Science” strategies, the EU aims to make Europe the leading location for AI-driven innovations – from industry and health to energy and sustainable agriculture.
AI First – AI in all Key Sectors
EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasizes a clear goal: “The future of AI should be shaped in Europe.” This includes an “AI-First” mindset in all important sectors – from robotics and the automotive industry to energy – always taking into account safety and sustainability.
With around one billion euros in funding, AI-supported projects are to be accelerated. These include screening centers for health, AI models for pharmaceuticals, manufacturing and the environment. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are also supported. To this end, Experience Centers for AI are being expanded and the Apply AI Alliance is being founded.
AI in Science and Research
At the same time, the AI in Science Strategy promotes research. The virtual institute RAISE bundles AI resources for scientists and start-ups. A doubling of Horizon Europe funding to over three billion euros is planned. In addition, 600 million euros will be invested in computing power and 58 million euros in talent in order to bring global experts to Europe.
TransformIT – Experience AI, Sustainable Transformation and Green Business Live
Sustainable transformation and green business are also the focus of the TransformIT Europe trade fair and conference. The highly regarded Future of European AI Summit 2025 already took place at the kick-off. In 2026, the program will be further strategically expanded – with a focus on AI developers and practical applications for business and research.
Sources & Links
- https://gdg.community.dev/events/details/google-gdg-brussels-presents-future-of-european-ai-where-responsibility-meets-innovation-big-evening-gdg-party/cohost-gdg-osnabruck
- https://digital-strategy.ec.europa.eu/en/policies/apply-ai
- https://www.cio.com/article/4070543/ai-first-the-eus-new-ai-strategy.html
- https://www.reuters.com/world/china/eu-rolls-out-11-billion-plan-ramp-up-ai-key-industries-amid-sovereignty-drive-2025-10-08/