The initiative aims to strengthen the European AI ecosystem by directing public procurement toward open and auditable models. It also seeks to boost support for startups and mid-sized firms that develop scalable generative AI solutions.
EU officials presented it as a strategic move to reinforce technological sovereignty and ensure the safe integration of AI into health, defense, and manufacturing systems. The plan will mobilize about €1 billion from existing EU programs to fund and scale continental AI projects. Priority will go to projects that can serve public administration and critical industries.
Observers said the policy treats AI not only as a productivity tool but also as a strategic asset requiring strong governance amid geopolitical risks. Some experts cautioned that execution may be difficult because U.S. cloud providers and Chinese firms currently dominate core model development. However, the European Commission believes targeted procurement and investments can foster viable alternatives.
Member states will coordinate data sharing and computing capacity to help a European AI stack scale effectively. The Commission announced the policy during a period of geopolitical uncertainty and leadership shifts in key trading partners, highlighting the urgency of shaping technology policy in Brussels.
Industry and academic stakeholders have been invited to consultations on AI standards and certification to keep the bloc competitive while maintaining privacy and security safeguards.
