With a new €108 million funding injection, the EU is betting on the digital future. The money, from the Digital Europe Programme, will go toward developing digital skills and supporting cross-border projects.
Key sectors such as quantum computing and robotics will receive €55 million. In addition, €25 million will be spent on reducing the digital divide between member states. Proposals can be submitted until Nov. 21, 2024, as part of a €7.5 billion seven-year budget to bring digital technology within reach of citizens and businesses.
The recent round of funding shows the European Union’s determination to expand its digital capabilities. Allocating more than €108 million to various initiatives, the Digital Europe Program illustrates the EU’s commitment to strengthening digital and technological capabilities within its borders.
Focus on advanced digital skills
At the heart of the funding is the development of advanced digital skills. An amount of €55 million is specifically earmarked for specialized education programs in critical digital areas such as quantum computing, photonics, and robotics. These sectors are on the brink of revolutionary impact on industry and society, increasing the need for specialized skills.
Narrowing the digital divide
The investment plan also includes €25 million for multi-country projects aimed at closing the digital divide between member states. These projects are essential for ensuring equal digital opportunities and supporting cohesion within the EU. The aim is that no region is left behind in the digital transition Europe is going through.
Development of local digital twins
The €20 million allocated to local digital twins (LDTs) underscores the importance of digital infrastructure for urban and regional development. LDTs offer the opportunity to leverage data and AI for smarter urban planning and management. This can result in more effective service delivery and more sustainable use of resources.
Fighting disinformation
In addition, the program responds to the pressing issue of disinformation by spending €8 million on the European Digital Media Observatory (EDMO). This initiative aims to analyze digital media ecosystems and develop strategies to combat disinformation, an important step in protecting the integrity of democracy in the digital age.
Long-term perspective and call for proposals
With a deadline for proposals on Nov. 21, 2024, the program gives participants ample time to develop and submit innovative ideas. The selected projects are expected to have an impact at scale, with participation from multiple member states and a long-term perspective. This fits within the broader ambition to drive digital transformation in Europe.
Budget and cooperation with other EU programs
The total budget of €7.5 billion over seven years underscores the scale of the Digital Europe Program. This program dovetails with other major EU initiatives such as Horizon Europe and the Connecting Europe Facility, all of which contribute to the digital transformation of European society and economy.
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