In the global race to develop AI solutions, Europe is launching a plan to intensify the sector, called “Apply AI.” The group’s main objective with this initiative is to strengthen technological capabilities and reduce dependence on platforms and models created primarily by American and Chinese companies. The strategy aims to unite digital sovereignty, security, and innovation, three areas seen as critical to ensuring Europe’s future in this sector.
Europe wants to build its own path in AI without relying on superpowers
The battle for leadership in artificial intelligence remains dominated by two major powers: the United States and China. On the American side, companies like OpenAI, Google, and Microsoft have a strong market presence, while on the Asian side, Baidu, Alibaba, and Tencent are more prominent. Meanwhile, Europe has, to a certain extent, remained dependent, using models and software developed outside its borders.
This dependence can create risks for the group, since when importing infrastructure and technologies, a concern arises, mainly around digital security issues, since this openness to external algorithms can expose sensitive data and even generate vulnerabilities in critical areas such as defense and public health.
With the new plan proposed by the European Commission, led by Commissioner Henna Virkkunen, the bloc aims to change this scenario and increasingly reduce the impact of foreign technology on the continent. “Apply AI” focused on generative models developed within the continent, created and controlled by European companies. The initial investment is expected to be €1 billion, coming from existing EU programs focused on research and digitalization.
Strategy focuses on European AI for key sectors such as healthcare, defense and industry
The goal of “Apply AI”, contrary to what one might imagine, is not to compete directly with foreign tech giants in scale, but in relevance. The main goal is to create solutions tailored directly to European needs, respecting the principles of privacy and transparency that are enshrined in the bloc.
In practice, the plan was designed to leverage the development and application of AI in certain sectors considered strategic for the continent. Among them, we can mention the public health system, government administration, defense, and manufacturing. There is also a specific emphasis on cyber-security projects and AI models applied to space and the defense industry, which are essential, especially to ensure European autonomy.
Europe is betting on local innovation to strengthen its technological independence
Another important objective of this plan is to encourage the advancement of local technological innovations. The commission intends to create startup hubs and research centers focused on AI, simulating the development of its own technologies. With this, the EU hope to reduce the risk of “technological sanctions,” such as restrictions on access to AI tools or interruptions in the supply of data and infrastructure by foreign companies.
This venture opens up the opportunity for companies to explore locally developed tools and APIs, reducing their dependence on North American and Chinese providers. Governments will be able to adopt solutions that better align with European laws and values.
How the European plan could impact the continent and its citizens
Companies and governments can benefit from the incentive and independence that the plan can bring internally. From a citizen’s perspective, the advantage comes from having AI closer to European reality, with systems that respect privacy and operate within the continent’s legal standards. It can also generate new jobs and boost startups.
What’s important to note is that “Apply AI” marks a decisive step in Europe’s attempt to shift from being primarily a consumer of foreign products to becoming a more active creator of technology, increasing the multipolarity of the AI market. If it can balance innovation, security, and sovereignty, the EU will successfully protect its internal interests and advance in the sector.