EuroHPC AI Factories Regulation (Council Regulation (EU) 2024/1732)

Summary

Amends the EuroHPC Joint Undertaking Regulation to add a seventh objective: developing and operating AI factories that give European startups and researchers access to supercomputing capacity for training trustworthy, general-purpose AI models. It defines AI-optimised supercomputers and AI factories, sets selection criteria for hosting entities, and sets rules on funding, ownership and access.

Who it applies to

Applies to the European High Performance Computing Joint Undertaking, its hosting entities and Participating States, and to users such as startups, small and medium-sized enterprises and researchers seeking access to AI-optimised supercomputers.

Key points

• Adds definitions of “AI-optimised supercomputer” and “AI factory” and an AI factory pillar covering acquisition, operation and upgrading of supercomputers with AI capabilities.
• Existing hosting entities may apply to become AI factories and are selected by the Governing Board following a call for expression of interest.
• The Union contribution covers up to 50% of acquisition costs and up to 50% of operating costs of AI-optimised supercomputers.
• Access is reserved for proposals developing trustworthy and ethical AI in line with Union values, with dedicated access for startups and small and medium-sized enterprises.
• Hosting entities must create a one-stop shop for users to facilitate access to support services.

Key dates

Signed / adopted

Jun 17, 2024

Published (official journal)

Jun 19, 2024