AI
The Arnhem-Nijmegen region is strong on AI. It is characterised by a good number of artificial intelligence innovation centres (so-called ICAI labs) in Nijmegen – ICAI and an increasing number of AI-related companies and applications. Using big data to let machines make decisions automatically. That’s what Artificial or Artificial Intelligence (AI) comes down to at its core.
AI has developed steadily over the past 30 years, with a marked acceleration from 2006 onwards. After a first generation of knowledge rule/algorithm-based systems, we are now in the second generation of machine learning, where the computer seeks solutions on its own from large amounts of data. The next step – which is in full development – is deep learning using neural networks. The Arnhem-Nijmegen region has all the ingredients to make a substantial contribution to the AI position of the East Netherlands, the whole of the Netherlands and Europe.
The region is home to plenty of well-trained staff, excellent knowledge (e.g. at Radboud University where people have been working on AI for more than 30 years and the Donders Institute for Brain and Cognition conducting pioneering research in neurotechnology) and companies applying AI.
In contrast, there is limited knowledge – both inside and outside the region – of how much is happening in the region in terms of AI. As a result, opportunities are missed when it comes to new collaborations, developing new knowledge/solutions, bringing in and retaining talent, and attracting funding.
AI is going to bring about major new breakthroughs in our society and economy. AI can add value within various domains for both residents and entrepreneurs, for example in the areas of health & care, sustainable energy supply, the quality of the built environment and improving education. The Arnhem-Nijmegen region has all the ingredients to make a substantial contribution to the AI position of the East Netherlands, the whole of the Netherlands and Europe.”
With the AI for Life initiative, we are working in the innovation network Lifeport to create an ecosystem to connect knowledge institutions, companies, and governments. Radboud University has been conducting research in the field of AI for 30 years, putting it in an exceptional position. AI is also developing rapidly at Wageningen University & Research (WUR) and HAN University of Applied Sciences (HAN). To avoid missing opportunities for new collaborations and knowledge development, the AI for Life initiative has been deployed.
“AI for Life facilitates regional cooperation between companies, knowledge institutions and governments in the field of Artificial Intelligence that fuels the application of innovative and new technologies in Energy, Health, High Tech and Food to increase the social and economic impact of the region nationally and internationally.” – mission statement Taskforce AI
Powerful connections are necessary to raise the region’s profile in the field of AI. This regional profile-raising is very important for governmental authorities. It strengthens lobbying and funding applications both towards the state and Europe. Properly elevating the regional profile supports international acquisition processes in which companies are brought to the region, but also attracts knowledge workers and binds residents to the region.
AI-hub East
AI-hub East is for entrepreneurs, knowledge institutions and governments in the region who (want to) work with AI on a national or international scale. This applies to parties that are already fully engaged in AI applications, as well as those that are exploring AI.
The hub connects and supports AI applications for a better, more sustainable, and healthier life. AI-hub East focuses mainly on applying AI to themes where the region is strong, which have a positive impact on people and the environment and where there are economic opportunities. These are primarily health, food, industry, energy, and education.
AI-hub East helps parties find their way around the AI playing field, identifying partners, projects and funding opportunities and making the right connections. Home (aihub-oost.nl)
