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Spain launched its national strategy in 2020, which is based on the artificial intelligence research, development, and innovation (RDI) strategy, the Spain Digital Agenda 2025, and key priorities and policy recommendations outlined in the Recovery, Transformation, and Resilience Plan. These strategies form a comprehensive approach to AI development in Spain, focusing on three broad areas:
Establishing a Robust AI Ecosystem: Creating a competitive research, development, and innovation (R&D&I) framework to promote scientific excellence, positioning Spain as a leading country in artificial intelligence, and focusing on achieving leadership in the development of tools, technologies, and applications, particularly in the context of the Spanish language.
Promoting AI Adoption Across Industries: Deploying AI technologies in both the public and private sectors to address cross-industry activities, tackle major challenges, and ensure the establishment of an ethical framework to enhance trust in AI.
Fostering Inclusive and Responsible AI: Promoting the development of human capital for artificial intelligence through skills development and education. This is enhanced by attracting global talent to Spain and motivating local talent. The strategy also aims to achieve an inclusive AI-driven economy by narrowing gender gaps and digital divides, supporting ecological transformation, and ensuring regional cohesion.
Key Participants
Following the release of the strategic document, the Spanish government announced a public investment of €600 million for the development and implementation of the strategy from 2021 to 2023. Of this amount, approximately €275 million is allocated for the development of AI technologies; €133 million for technology integration; €100 million for integrating AI into public and government systems; and the remaining €100 million for increasing research, education, and vocational training in Spain to create a more gender-inclusive technology-driven economy.
In 2021, Spain launched the Next Tech Fund, a venture capital fund aimed at raising €4 billion for public-private investment in technologies such as cloud services, big data, AI, and blockchain. The Spanish government also plans to invest up to €2 billion over four years, with the remaining funds coming from private investment.
In terms of private investment, Spain has been one of only five EU member states with annual AI investments exceeding €1 billion since 2020. While Spanish startups like Luzia and Correcto are attracting global investment and attention, Spain's entrepreneurial activity is still influenced by France and Germany.
Spain's national AI strategy in 2020 marks a significant step toward global AI prominence. The strategy is based on comprehensive initiatives that promote a robust AI ecosystem, drive AI adoption across industries, and advocate for inclusive and responsible AI practices. With €600 million in public investment and the Next Tech Fund, Spain is investing in the future of AI.
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