International cooperation in AI (IA)

Expected Outcome:Project results are expected to contribute to one of the following outcomes:Faster uptake of tailored and enhanced AI solutions at innovation hubs in low- and middle-income countries by training and optimising them with local data and applied research.Easier large-scale deployment of local AI solutions in low and middle-income countries by increasing the efficiency of system demonstration in relevant, operational environments.Strengthened local innovation ecosystems that foster sustainable socio-economic impact by addressing key societal challenges in areas such as education, healthcare, agriculture, and environmental sustainability. Scope:System prototype, testing, validation, and demonstration in operational environment aligned to EU initiatives, such as the International Digital Strategy for the EU[1] and the AI Continent Action Plan[2], to strengthen local AI ecosystems in African countries fostering responsible AI development, north-south digital cooperation on AI, and sustainable AI innovation.The main goal is to support the digital transition and foster inclusive economic and social transformation of partners globally by adapting and applying innovative solutions, research areas and capabilities developed in Europe to low- and middle-income countries.This Innovation Action will focus on accelerating the uptake of and access to AI solutions by local innovation hubs in these countries, better enabling their practical implementation and future market deployment in operational environments. Proposals should consider synergies and complementarity of ongoing research and innovation activities in the policy areas of international partnerships, digital and infrastructure like the Digital for Development Hub[3] and AI for Public Good[4], and may follow an approach like Living Labs. Proposals should also support the European Union’s Global Gateway strategy to boost smart, clean, and secure connections in digital, energy and transport sectors, and to st