Experts call for a billion euro artificial intelligence plan
The Netherlands must launch a large national program to invest in artificial intelligence to remain competitive, according to more than 50 experts in a report by the Ministry of Economic Affairs. They point out that without decisive action, the country may fall behind the United States and China.
Experts highlight the strong local foundations, including ASML and leading universities, and industries such as advanced technology, agriculture, logistics, and energy. However, they say that the Netherlands lacks coordinated national efforts to expand research and development and applications of artificial intelligence.
They recommend annual investments in billions of euros, new legislation, and the establishment of research institutes to bridge the gap. They also consider the broader adoption of artificial intelligence in education and providing access for civil servants to advanced systems as essential steps to enhance local capabilities.
Concerns include a growing gap in investment and talent. Dutch startups struggle to expand locally, Europe has less computing power and venture capital than the United States, and skilled professionals in artificial intelligence are leaving for better opportunities abroad.
The report also proposes the establishment of a 'Special Economic Zone' with temporary regulatory exemptions, testing self-driving cars and drones in a specific city, and the creation of two national institutes: the Institute for Artificial Intelligence Impact and the National Agency for Disruptive Innovation (NADI), inspired by the model of the US Darpa agency to fund high-risk, high-impact research projects.