Artificial intelligence

The application of artificial intelligence (AI) is playing an increasingly important role within research, education and business. It offers plenty of opportunities for improvement and acceleration and is certainly leading to a digital transformation within the research field and education as well.

Large-scale Dutch AI facility

The development of artificial intelligence (AI) is crucial for innovation in sectors such as healthcare, mobility, energy transition and security. Currently, however, AI applications are mainly developed on American and Chinese platforms. This leads to an outflow of talent, knowledge, and applications abroad. Even within education and research, the Netherlands is increasingly dependent on American big-tech companies, putting pressure on our digital sovereignty.

To reduce this dependency, the Dutch government and the European Commission are investing in a large-scale 'AI factory' based on public values such as sustainability, transparency and collaboration.

What is an AI factory?

An AI-factory enables education, researchers, government organisations and businesses to develop advanced AI applications and find solutions to societal challenges.

An AI-factory has the following three characteristics:

Supercomputer for AI
The facility has a powerful supercomputer specifically designed for training and developing AI applications.
Reliable datasets
The facility provides access to large-scale reliable Dutch and/or European data sources that meet European standards for security, privacy and reliability.
Centre of expertise
The facility has a team of high-quality AI experts. It also uses a network of researchers and specialists from knowledge institutions, such as universities and TNO.

Public values as a foundation

Unlike commercial platforms, the Dutch AI factory will be based on the principles of digital commons: open source software, transparency, sustainability and collaboration. This ecosystem provides a fertile basis for an open and innovative AI development environment without the influence of big tech. In doing so, we strengthen our digital sovereignty and reduce our dependence on foreign technologies. This is essential for our economic future and international competitiveness.

Groningen as a promising location

Because of its thriving software development sector and attractive business location climate, Groningen is a promising location for the first Dutch AI factory. Groningen is home to several educational institutions that produce highly skilled professionals, and the region offers ample room for growth and development. In addition, as one of the few locations in the Netherlands, Groningen has space on the electricity grid - an essential prerequisite for data centres and digital infrastructure.

The establishment of an AI factory in Groningen can give a powerful boost to the regional economy. It will attract new talent, create jobs and boost the growth of the digital sector.

Steps forward and SURF's role

The European Commission makes funding available for the development of AI factories, but requires the recipient country (or consortium) to contribute 50 per cent of the funding itself. SURF is responsible for applying for the grant on behalf of the Netherlands and has the experience, expertise and infrastructure to take on the possible implementation of the AI factory. The Dutch government and the province of Groningen are currently investigating how they can contribute to the required co-financing.

Deadline for grant application

Early May 2025 is the deadline for submitting the grant application to the European Commission. It is also being investigated whether and how the risks of this large-scale facility can be covered for the SURF organisation. In the coming period, it will become clear whether and how the central government and the province of Groningen want to participate.