EU launches pilot phase for “RAISE” – new European resource for AI-supported science

The European Commission launched the pilot of RAISE (“Resource for Artificial Intelligence Science in Europe”) at the European AI in Science Summit in Copenhagen. The aim of this new virtual research institute is to develop Europe into a global center for AI-supported science and to accelerate research breakthroughs in key areas such as medicine, climate, materials science, and natural hazard prevention.

The project is funded by Horizon Europe with €107 million and is a core element of the European AI in Science Strategy and the Apply AI Strategy.

Europe strengthens AI research and competitiveness

RAISE brings together key resources for research and innovation in a Europe-wide network:

• Computing power: Reserved access to European AI gigafactories (including via the EuroHPC Joint Undertaking), funded by €600 million from Horizon Europe.
• Data: Development, integration, and provision of strategically relevant scientific datasets for AI applications.
• Scientific excellence & talent: €75 million for networks of excellence and doctoral programs to attract and train top talent for Europe.
• Research funding: Planned doubling of Horizon Europe funding for AI to over €3 billion annually, with a strong focus on AI in science.

At the same time, the RAISE pilot project “Facilitated cooperation for AI in science” was launched with €3 million in funding from Horizon Europe, and a new ERA Action to accelerate the use of AI in research institutions was announced.

Significance for Bavaria

Strengthening European AI research also opens up new perspectives for Bavarian universities, research centers, and companies:

• Direct access to high-performance computing resources for AI projects
• European talent and training programs in the field of AI
• New funding opportunities under Horizon Europe
• Support in establishing international AI research collaborations

The Bavarian Research Alliance (BayFOR) supports Bavarian stakeholders in identifying funding calls, establishing consortia, and submitting successful project applications.

Outlook

RAISE will be developed in stages. After the pilot phase, the Commission will further develop the program together with member states, research institutions, and industry with a view to the next EU funding period (2028–2034). The goal is to create a long-term, sustainable structure for strengthening European technological sovereignty.

Further information can be found here.