EU commits €1.3 billion to AI, cybersecurity, and digital skills through 2027

The European Commission‘s €1.3 billion investment signals a substantial financial commitment to securing Europe’s technological sovereignty in the AI era. This funding initiative represents a strategic move to strengthen Europe’s position in advanced technologies while simultaneously addressing critical skill gaps, underscoring the continent’s recognition that digital competitiveness requires both technological investment and human capital development.

The big picture: The European Commission will invest €1.3 billion ($1.4 billion) in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and digital skills through its Digital Europe Programme for 2025 to 2027.

What they’re saying: European Commission digital chief Henna Virkkunen emphasized the strategic importance of the investment to Europe’s technology future.

• “Securing European tech sovereignty starts with investing in advanced technologies and in making it possible for people to improve their digital competences,” Virkkunen stated.

Why this matters: The substantial funding commitment demonstrates Europe’s determination to maintain competitive positioning in the global technology landscape while addressing potential security vulnerabilities and skills shortages.

Strategic priorities: The three-pronged investment approach targets critical areas that will determine Europe’s digital resilience and competitiveness in the coming years.

• By balancing investments across AI innovation, cybersecurity infrastructure, and digital skills development, the Commission is addressing both technological and human capital needs.
• The timing of this investment coincides with rapid advances in AI capabilities globally and growing concerns about cybersecurity threats.