The European Commission has approved the 2025-2027 Digital Europe Programme (DIGITAL) work program, committing €1.3 billion to strengthen key technologies crucial for the EU’s digital sovereignty.

This initiative supports Europe’s goal of reducing reliance on external digital systems by investing in cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and advanced computing. With an overall budget of €8.1 billion, DIGITAL aims to accelerate technological development across industries, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and public administrations through an expanded network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs).

A major focus of the program is enhancing artificial intelligence, cloud and data infrastructure, and cybersecurity. The initiative promotes AI adoption, particularly in healthcare and energy-efficient data management, while the EU Cybersecurity Reserve aims to protect critical infrastructure, such as hospitals and submarine cables. Additionally, the Destination Earth initiative will create a digital model of Earth to support climate adaptation and disaster risk management. By strengthening EDIHs, businesses and public institutions will gain better access to AI expertise, training, and technology testing.

DIGITAL also prioritizes developing digital skills and modernizing public administration. Investments will support education and training institutions to cultivate top digital talent while facilitating the adoption of the EU Digital Identity Wallet and European Trust Infrastructure. The new Strategic Technologies for Europe Platform (STEP) will accelerate innovation by providing quality-label recognition to promising projects, improving access to public and private funding. As Henna Virkkunen, Executive Vice-President for Tech Sovereignty, Security, and Democracy, stated, these investments will ensure that new technologies and opportunities reach European citizens, businesses, and governments, securing the EU’s leadership in the digital age.