EU funds 83 Digital Hubs to boost AI innovation

The European Commission has announced renewed funding for 83 European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs) as part of its ongoing effort to strengthen the continent’s AI ecosystem and support the EU’s “AI First” policy. The new funding, announced alongside the launch of the “Apply AI Strategy,” aims to transform these hubs into Experience Centres for AI across EU Member States and associated countries.

For eeNews Europe readers, this initiative is a key development in Europe’s technology infrastructure, offering new opportunities for AI developers, system integrators, and semiconductor companies to collaborate with SMEs and public administrations deploying AI solutions.

Strengthening Europe’s AI backbone

The new funding, totaling €342 million, comes from the Digital Europe Programme (DIGITAL) 2025–2027, together with Member States, regions, and other partners. With the latest additions, 102 EDIHs—83 of which have been newly selected—will also receive the STEP Seal, a recognition awarded to high-quality projects that strengthen skills and innovation capacity in strategic technologies.

By transforming the hubs into AI-focused Experience Centres, the Commission is steering Europe toward a more coordinated digital transition. These centers will help businesses “apply AI as part of the solution, while evaluating its potential benefits and risks,” aligning with the EU’s AI First policy.

The hubs already play a crucial role in Europe’s digital transformation, supporting thousands of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and public sector organizations in their digitization efforts. The new AI-driven phase will expand that mission, offering companies first-line access to guidance on AI deployment, testing, compliance with the AI Act, and connections to specialized resources within Europe’s growing AI ecosystem.

Expanding reach and investor appeal

The Commission also announced that a second call for EDIH funding will open in November 2025, aimed at further consolidating the network across Europe. The STEP Seal initiative will support the expansion by connecting standout projects with private and public investors for additional or alternative funding.

By reinforcing the EDIH network and embedding AI at its core, the EU is not only driving digital transformation but also fostering a competitive AI ecosystem less dependent on external technologies. Notably, for Europe’s tech industry, this move signals new collaboration and commercialization opportunities — particularly for companies delivering AI-enabled hardware, software, and data solutions tailored to SMEs.

As the Commission positions EDIHs as key players in Europe’s digital and industrial strategy, the message is clear: AI is no longer optional — it’s the foundation of the next phase of European innovation.