Iris Plöger , Member of the BDI Executive Board, believes that when it comes to artificial intelligence, Germany risks losing ground against the US and China. Although Germany is strong in basic research, “far too little account is still taken” of the findings. Plöger considers this a matter for policymakers: These urgently need to be put measures in place to improve the transfer of technology to industry and to support AI startups .

More money also needs to be invested in research and development, ideally in conjunction with the EU Member States and the European Commission, whereby the inherent strengths lie in “the Franco-German engine”, as well as in the European Single Market and its companies. Yet, while currently “only” €2.4 billion in private investments are made in AI in Europe, this figure is considerably higher in North America. According to the BDI, economic development schemes could mobilize more money in the private sector.

Consultants at Roland Berger agree. They conducted a study in which they analyzed mainly AI startups, since these are the most powerful drivers of innovation in the field of artificial intelligence. To date, the US, where almost 40% of all AI startups are based, has taken the lead. To change this, the consultants in particular recommend creating a Europe-wide enterprise status for startups, boosting investment in young companies, and supporting AI talent.