Apply AI: Pilot of the “Science for AI” Pillar of RAISE (“Resource for AI science in Europe”) (RIA)

Expected Outcome:This pilot supports the Apply AI Strategy[1], particularly its research and innovation efforts, which aims to advance core AI capabilities, especially in frontier AI, and support fundamental AI research. The initiative will pool strategic resources to push the technological frontiers of AI and drive scientific breakthroughs, ensuring that the project contributes to the EU's goal of maintaining European leadership in AI research. Project results are expected to contribute to all of the following expected outcomes:Set up a network of excellent AI Labs in the EU and Associated Countries, raising visibility and strengthening collaboration in European AI researchEstablish a model of cooperation among these labs and support the development of a strategic research agenda for fundamental research in AI.Ensure that the network operates as a virtual institute across Europe, pooling resources and expertise.Develop synergies with the AI in science efforts in RAISE.Stimulate and support world-class research in AI, both fundamental and applied research. Building on Europe’s research strength, attract collaboration with industry and excellent AI talent. Scope:Ensuring Europe's technological sovereignty in AI requires reinforcing and leveraging Europe's strengths, particularly its world-class AI research community.The selected consortium should be composed by leading European AI research institutions. These AI research institutes should be entities with legal structure, dedicated facilities and, a significant number of research teams focusing on AI research. This category also includes multidisciplinary research institutions that host AI-focused branches meeting these criteria. The consortium will pilot a network of excellent European AI research institutes that will collaboratively address fundamental AI research topics, pushing the frontier of the domain. Participants will cooperate within a virtual institute, attracting talents, stimulating industrial initiative