The European Commission has pledged €71 million to establish a new AI Factory in Groningen, Netherlands. The Dutch national government and the Nij Begun regional program have committed €70 million and €60 million respectively. The project aims to enhance Europe’s digital independence and boost the regional economy.

The AI Factory will feature an expertise center in the Niemeyer building in Groningen, and a dedicated AI supercomputer. The expertise center will foster collaboration among AI specialists and support businesses, while the supercomputer will process large data volumes for advanced applications. The location of the supercomputer is yet to be announced.

The facility will provide access to data, computing power, and expertise for researchers, entrepreneurs, governments, and organizations throughout the Netherlands. This initiative is expected to attract talent, strengthen the European AI network, and enhance the Netherlands’ self-reliance in AI technology.

The expertise center is scheduled to open in mid-2026, with the supercomputer becoming fully operational by early 2027. The project involves collaboration between several Dutch ministries and the regional government.

Roelien Kamminga, Mayor of Groningen, emphasized the project’s potential to create solutions that improve daily life, from medical diagnoses to agriculture and public services. Eddie van Marum, State Secretary for Groningen Recovery and Digitalisation, highlighted the AI Factory’s role in positioning Groningen on the international stage and driving economic recovery in the region.

Jakob Klompien, project lead for the Economic Agenda under Nij Begun, noted the investment’s significance for technological development, economic growth, and attracting talent and innovative businesses to the region. The AI Factory signifies a major step toward strengthening Europe’s digital capabilities and fostering innovation in artificial intelligence.