The European Commission has announced a €1.3 billion investment in critical digital technologies as part of the Digital Europe Programme (DIGITAL) for 2025-2027. This initiative aims to enhance AI, cybersecurity, and digital skills, ensuring Europe’s technological sovereignty and global competitiveness. The investment will fund key areas like generative AI, data spaces, cyber resilience, and digital identity. These efforts aim to drive innovation and secure Europe’s tech future.
A significant portion of the funding will support the advancement of generative AI applications, particularly in the healthcare sector. The EU aims to improve access to AI-driven virtual worlds, helping businesses and public institutions integrate cutting-edge technology. The initiative will also focus on implementing the AI Act, ensuring responsible AI development while prioritizing energy-efficient data spaces. These measures align with the AI Factories initiative, which promotes the development of AI models tailored to European needs.
EMPOWERING EUROPEAN DIGITAL INNOVATION HUBS (EDIHS)
The programme will expand and strengthen European Digital Innovation Hubs, providing technical expertise, technology testing, and digital training. These hubs will facilitate AI adoption across various industries, enhancing innovation in businesses and public services. The initiative aims to bridge the digital divide, ensuring that companies, especially small and medium enterprises (SMEs), can integrate AI-driven solutions.
ADVANCING CLIMATE AND DISASTER MANAGEMENT WITH DESTINATION EARTH
The Destination Earth (DestinE) initiative, an award-winning EU project, will receive additional funding to build a more powerful digital Earth model. This technology will aid climate adaptation and disaster risk management, offering scientists and policymakers improved tools for analyzing environmental changes and predicting natural disasters.
STRENGTHENING CYBERSECURITY AND INFRASTRUCTURE PROTECTION
Cyber resilience remains a top priority, with funding allocated to enhance the EU Cybersecurity Reserve. The initiative will focus on securing critical infrastructures, including hospitals, submarine cables, and digital networks. With cyber threats on the rise, this investment will fortify Europe’s digital defenses and mitigate risks to public and private institutions.
EXPANDING DIGITAL SKILLS ACROSS EUROPE
The EU plans to bolster digital skills training by increasing resources for education and workforce development. Universities and training institutions will receive funding to nurture tech talent and enhance digital proficiency. These efforts will help build an advanced workforce, ensuring Europe remains at the forefront of technological innovation.
ENHANCING DIGITAL IDENTITY AND PUBLIC SERVICES
The investment will accelerate the deployment of the EU Digital Identity Wallet, enabling citizens to securely store and manage personal information. The initiative will also expand the European Trust Infrastructure, ensuring stronger digital security. Additionally, the programme will focus on modernizing public services, making them more efficient, interoperable, and accessible.
FOSTERING INNOVATION THROUGH STRATEGIC TECHNOLOGIES
The Strategic Technologies for Europe Platform (STEP)will play a crucial role in accelerating digital innovation. The initiative will award the STEP Seal quality labelto promising projects, helping them secure public and private funding. This move aims to boost Europe’s leadership in emerging digital technologies.
Next Steps: Calls for Funding Open in 2025
The first funding callsunder the DIGITAL programme will be launched in April 2025, with additional opportunities throughout the year. Businesses, public administrations, and organizations from EU Member States, EFTA/EEA countries, and associated DIGITAL nationswill be eligible to apply. Details will be available on the EU Funding & Tenders Portal.
This strategic investment is a major step in reinforcing Europe’s digital leadership, fostering innovation, and ensuring a resilient, tech-driven future.