The EuroHPC Joint Undertaking (EuroHPC JU) has launched two calls for expressions of interest to select hosting entities that will host and operate AI-optimised supercomputers, AI experimental platforms and AI factories across Europe.
The EuroHPC JU will deploy AI-dedicated supercomputing and service infrastructures to support the further development of a highly competitive and innovative AI Ecosystem in the European Union.
Two distinct calls for expressions of interest, each tailored to different types of hosting entities have been launched:
- Call for expression of interest for the selection of existing Hosting Entities of EuroHPC supercomputers to acquire an advanced experimental AI-optimised supercomputing platform (optional) and to establish an AI Factory (EUROHPC-2024-CEI-AI-01)
- Call for expression of interest for the selection of Hosting Entities for the acquisition of an AI-optimised supercomputer or the upgrade of an existing EuroHPC supercomputer with AI capabilities, an advanced Experimental AI-optimised supercomputing platform (optional), and the establishment of an AI Factory (EUROHPC-2024-CEI-AI-02)
The calls shall remain continuously open until 31 December 2025 with pre-defined cut-off dates. The first cut-off deadline for applications is 4 November 2024 at 17:00 CET, with subsequent ones every three months.
Each cut-off date will trigger the evaluation of all applications submitted by that date. Through this process, EuroHPC JU will select hosting entities to host and operate AI-optimised supercomputers, AI experimental platforms and AI factories. New hosting agreements will then be concluded to establish stable and structured partnerships between the JU and the hosting entities for:
- the acquisition, integration and operation of new or upgraded AI EuroHPC supercomputers,
- the development and operation of advanced experimental AI-optimised supercomputing platforms,
- and the establishment and operation of the associated “AI Factories”.
The AI Factories initiative seeks to establish a number of comprehensive one-stop shops for AI users, including start-ups, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and scientific researchers. These AI Factories will provide streamlined access to a wide range of AI services, including essential tools, skills development, and user support.
In addition, the AI Factories are designed to create an environment where AI innovations can flourish, ensuring that Europe remains competitive in the rapidly evolving global AI landscape. The aim of AI factories is to provide the European scientific community at large with enhanced access to AI optimised computing capabilities for the large-scale training and development of general-purpose AI models, and for the development, validation and running of emerging AI applications.