The discussion on Artificial Intelligence in Europe has now clearly moved from policymaking to implementation. With the AI Act now in force, the focus of the EDIH Summit 2026 (Strengthening the AI Innovation Ecosystem, held on 9–10 June at The SQUARE in Brussels) was on making sure that SMEs and public administrations can easily access AI infrastructure and turn this into meaningful AI uptake. The event brought together nearly 1 000 innovators and policymakers to examine how to strengthen ecosystem coherence and how hubs are increasingly acting as hands-on technology guides.
As the executive agency helping drive digital innovation across the EU, HaDEA plays an important role in rolling out the EDIH network. Its work focuses on making advanced digital capacities, including generative and agentic AI, more accessible and smoothly integrated across borders.
On the second day, HaDEA co-organised a highly interactive workshop titled New EDIH Frontiers: From Capabilities to Collaboration in Associated Countries. The session brought together nearly 50 regional experts and policymakers to develop a practical resource roadmap for hubs beyond the EU’s standard borders.
The session was opened by HaDEA’s Fani Tsirantonaki and GIZ’s Niclas Rüeffer, who underlined how essential the integration of Associated Countries is to Europe’s broader AI ambitions. Attendees then learned from real-life success stories shared by EDIHs in Ukraine, Hungary, and Spain, before an open panel with representatives from Moldova and Serbia explored ways to overcome financial and operational obstacles. A lively matchmaking segment brought the session to a close, leaving participants with tangible ideas for joint pilot projects.
The EDIH Summit 2026 demonstrated that Europe’s AI ecosystem is ready for large-scale collaboration. By narrowing the divide between Member States and Associated Countries, HaDEA and its partners are making sure the digital transition stays inclusive, secure, and globally competitive.