Artificial intelligence (AI) encompasses systems capable of performing tasks that normally require human intelligence—such as learning, reasoning and problem solving. Increasingly, companies are integrating AI into their processes to work more efficiently, reduce costs and seize new growth opportunities. On 9 April 2025, the European Commission launched the “AI Continent Action Plan”, with the ambition to make the EU a world leader in AI and thus boost the innovation potential and competitiveness of European businesses.
Scaling up AI infrastructure
To train and deploy AI applications at scale, computing power and data storage are essential. The EU is therefore building a network of AI Factories (with a €10 billion budget for 2021–2027 and at least 13 operational factories by 2026) and plans up to five AI Gigafactories (with €20 billion via InvestAI) for even more powerful AI training. In addition, the Cloud and AI Development Act will stimulate investments to triple the EU’s data centre capacity within 5–7 years.
Business benefit: Companies—from startups to multinationals—can leverage this infrastructure to develop their own AI models faster and more affordably, without having to make huge hardware investments themselves.
Data governance and access
A successful AI strategy hinges on high quality data. The Commission is therefore developing a Data Union Strategyto ease data sharing between businesses and public authorities and is introducing Data Labs within AI Factories to collect, enrich and secure data according to uniform quality standards.
Business benefit: Organizations gain access to a broader array of high‑quality datasets, improving AI‑model accuracy and accelerating analyses.
Skills and talent development
Harnessing AI requires specialized expertise. That is why the EU is investing in:
- International recruitment and fellowships for top students, researchers and AI professionals;
- An AI Skills Academy for up skilling and re skilling;
- A pilot programme focused on generative AI;
- Support via European Digital Innovation Hubs for local reskilling.
Business benefit: By training and attracting talent, companies secure the right expertise to internally lead and implement AI projects.
Accelerating development and adoption
Through the “Apply AI” strategy, the Commission aims to boost the uptake of AI in strategic sectors such as healthcare, the automotive industry and advanced manufacturing. Specific programmes will support businesses and public bodies in developing and deploying promising AI solutions.
Business benefit: Sector‑targeted tools and subsidies help organizations roll out working AI applications more quickly—from predictive maintenance in factories to personalized healthcare.
Simplifying regulation
The EU is focused on a smooth implementation of the AI Act by setting up an AI Act Service Desk (summer 2025) and providing free, tailored toolkits and advice for companies. This will boost both citizen trust and regulatory clarity for entrepreneurs.
Business benefit: Enterprises can navigate high‑risk compliance processes more efficiently and gain faster clarity on which AI applications are permitted, shortening time to market.
The AI Continent Action Plan offers an integrated framework to accelerate AI in Europe—from infrastructure and data to talent, adoption and regulation. For businesses, this presents a unique opportunity to optimise processes with EU support and facilities, develop innovative business models, and remain internationally competitive. By investing in AI now, organizations can reap the rewards of higher productivity, better decision‑making and access to new markets.
With the right strategy and support, AI can become a powerful instrument for sustainable growth and innovation.
