EU Launches AI Continent Action Plan to Boost AI Industry

The European Commission has launched the AI Continent Action Plan, aiming to transform Europe's traditional industries and talent pool into engines of AI innovation, European Commission announced. This initiative seeks to enhance the EU's AI capabilities through infrastructure development, regulatory simplification, and increased access to high-quality data.

Key components of the plan include the establishment of AI Factories and Gigafactories, which will provide state-of-the-art computing resources to support AI model development. The Commission also plans to introduce a Cloud and AI Development Act to expand data center capacity, aiming to triple it within the next five to seven years.

To facilitate AI adoption, the EU will launch the Apply AI Strategy, focusing on developing tailored AI solutions for strategic sectors. Additionally, the AI Act Service Desk will be created to assist businesses in complying with the AI Act, providing a central hub for guidance and information.

Public consultations are open until June 4, 2025, to gather feedback on the Cloud and AI Development Act and the Apply AI Strategy, as the EU seeks to refine its approach to fostering AI innovation across the continent.