Germany Aims to Lead in AI Innovation
Germany plans to take the lead in the field of innovative AI applications. Federal Digital Minister Volker Wissing is launching the National Initiative for AI-based Transformation into the Data Economy (NITD) project. The goal is to create a basis for trustworthy and marketable AI applications by the end of 2025, which focuses on people. The project will fall under the umbrella of the German Academy of Science and Engineering Acatech to improve networking of data, develop uniform testing and quality standards, and promote AI companies in Germany. The government has allocated 32 million euros for the project, which is one of its “leverage projects” for a fully functional NITD by the end of 2025.
Networking Data Spaces and Business Models
One of the main areas of focus is to network data spaces from different sectors, like transport, for standardization and to create new business models and social value creation. Another goal is to set uniform quality and testing standards as a framework for AI innovations “made in Germany.” A center will also make applications of AI for citizens and companies possible. The NITD will also improve the conditions for founding successful AI companies, and plans to provide additional concepts for basic AI research, where Germany seeks to take a leading role.
Fighting Against Technology Bans and Tailor-made Funding
Wissing emphasized that he wants to strengthen AI development in Germany and is fighting against technology bans and for clear rules that leave enough room for innovation. AI developers need easy access to data, clarity about future standards, and tailor-made funding offers. The NITD aims to bring more speed into the practical implementation. Acatech President Jan Wörner added that the goal is to promote cooperation so that Germany can also become faster in the application and scaling of new business models.
Germany’s AI Strategy
The NITD is part of Germany’s multi-billion-dollar AI strategy, which the government first launched in 2018 and updated in 2020. The new project aims to create innovative AI applications that are trustworthy, marketable, and focused on people. It will promote the networking of data, develop quality and testing standards, and create new business models. With this move, Germany is taking the lead in the development of AI technology and will play a critical role in shaping the future of the digital economy.
