On 28^th March 2025, the European Commission announced a significant investment of €1.3 billion aimed at bolstering Europe’s capabilities in artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, and digital skills. This funding is part of the Digital Europe Programme’s work plan for 2025 to 2027, highlighting the EU’s commitment to enhancing its technological sovereignty and accelerating digital transformation across member states.

Note to reader: The United Kingdom is not currently associated with the European Union’s Digital Europe Programme following Brexit. This means UK-based organisations are not eligible to apply for or receive funding through the programme. If you are based in the UK, this article is for information purposes only.

Strategic Focus Areas

The allocated funds will be directed toward several key areas:

1. Artificial Intelligence (AI) Deployment and Adoption: The initiative aims to facilitate the integration of AI technologies into both businesses and public administrations, promoting innovation and efficiency.
2. Cloud and Data Infrastructure: Investments will support the development of robust cloud services and data infrastructures, ensuring secure and efficient data management and accessibility.
3. Cyber Resilience: Enhancing cybersecurity measures is a priority to protect digital assets and infrastructures from evolving cyber threats.
4. Digital Skills Development: The programme emphasises the importance of equipping citizens with the necessary digital skills to thrive in an increasingly digital economy.

Implementation and Accessibility

The European Commission plans to roll out calls for proposals starting in April 2025, with additional opportunities expected throughout the year. These calls will be accessible to businesses, public administrations, and other entities from EU Member States, EFTA/EEA countries, and nations associated with the Digital Europe Programme.

Interested parties can find detailed information on open calls and application procedures on the Digital Europe website.

Alignment with Broader EU Digital Strategies

This investment aligns with the EU’s broader digital strategies, including the 2030 Digital Compass, which outlines Europe’s digital ambitions for the next decade. By focusing on critical areas such as AI, cybersecurity, and digital skills, the EU aims to position itself as a leader in the global digital landscape.

Henna Virkkunen, the European Commission’s digital chief, emphasised the importance of this initiative, stating, “Securing European tech sovereignty starts with investing in advanced technologies and in making it possible for people to improve their digital competences.”

Expected Impact

The €1.3 billion investment is anticipated to have a transformative impact on Europe’s digital ecosystem by:

• Driving Innovation: Facilitating the development and adoption of cutting-edge AI technologies across various sectors.
• Enhancing Security: Strengthening cybersecurity frameworks to protect critical infrastructures and data.
• Building a Skilled Workforce: Providing citizens with the digital skills necessary to participate effectively in the digital economy.
• Fostering Economic Growth: Enabling businesses, especially SMEs, to leverage digital technologies for increased competitiveness and market expansion.

This strategic investment reflects the EU’s commitment to creating a resilient, inclusive, and forward-looking digital environment that benefits all its citizens and positions Europe at the forefront of global technological advancements.