As the European Union (EU) continues to lead in global digital innovation, several key initiatives are shaping its future. With a focus on artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, and ensuring resilience in the digital economy, the EU has launched groundbreaking efforts.
We give the center stage to two major initiatives: the implementation of the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Act and the formation of the Cyber Resilience Act (CRA) Expert Group. Both initiatives are set to shape the landscape of technology and innovation, ensuring that AI systems are regulated and trustworthy, while also reinforcing cybersecurity across digital products and services.
AI Act and the Launch of the AI Board
The newly established Artificial Intelligence Board has officially begun its work, marking a significant step in Europe’s strategy to responsibly govern AI technologies. As part of the AI Act, this board will ensure that AI systems adhere to the highest standards of safety, ethics, and transparency. The AI Act, which is set to become the world's first comprehensive regulatory framework for AI, will focus on balancing innovation with risk management, particularly in high-stakes sectors like healthcare, finance, and public safety.
The AI Board, composed of experts and representatives from EU member states, will oversee the enforcement of the AI Act, offering guidance and support to ensure that AI development aligns with European values such as fairness, accountability, and privacy protection, and that businesses can innovate within a clear legal framework.
Why This Matters? With AI becoming deeply embedded in sectors that affect everyday life, the AI Act seeks to build trust in AI by ensuring these technologies are safe and ethical. This regulation will also establish a level playing field for businesses while fostering innovation and competition within Europe.
Upcoming Financing Opportunities: Through the Digital Europe Programme, and the Horizon Europe Programme, the EU offers funding to support projects that align with its digital transformation goals, including AI-related initiatives. Businesses, researchers, and organizations are encouraged to stay tuned for upcoming calls for proposals that support AI development and adoption, particularly those related to the AI Act.
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 TikoBits:
Not sure where to find information, how to find a right call, or how to apply? Not sure if you can apply at all? Don`t quit before you contact us. If you have the knowledge, expertise, or a project idea, we are experts in project design, preparation of project application, project management, reporting, and communication & dissemination activities. Contact us and take your chance!
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Cyber Resilience Act Expert Group - Building a Secure Digital Europe
In parallel, the Cyber Resilience Act (CRA) Expert Group has launched a call for applications, inviting top cybersecurity professionals to contribute to the development and enforcement of the Cyber Resilience Act. This act is aimed at establishing cybersecurity requirements for digital products and services sold within the EU, addressing vulnerabilities and ensuring resilience against increasingly sophisticated cyber threats.
The CRA will set mandatory cybersecurity standards for connected devices and software, ensuring that they are secure by design. This proactive approach is vital as Europe strengthens its defenses against cyberattacks, particularly in sectors like energy, healthcare, and finance, where digital security is paramount. The CRA Expert Group will advise the Commission on best practices for making digital products secure by design.
Why This Matters? As cyber threats grow in scale and complexity, the CRA’s implementation will be critical for safeguarding Europe’s digital infrastructure. By setting clear security standards, the EU is ensuring that its digital market is robust, secure, and prepared for future challenges.
Key Dates If you’re a cybersecurity expert, you can apply to join the CRA Expert Group and help shape the future of cybersecurity in Europe. The call for applications for the CRA Expert Group is open, offering a unique opportunity for professionals to participate in setting cybersecurity standards across the EU.
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TikoBits:
 A good example of a project aligned with the European Commission's efforts in cybersecurity is the CRACoWi project, which started in September 2024. CRACoWi – Cyber Resilience Act Compliance Wizard is an innovative initiative developed in response to the European Commission’s Cyber Resilience Act (CRA). The project aims to provide automated tools for cybersecurity certification, documentation, and assessments, helping companies meet the new CRA standards throughout the entire product lifecycle. You can follow the project’s progress here: CRACoWi project on LinkedIn.
Tiko Pro has been involved from the outset in the design of the CRACoWi project. In addition to advising on the project application, we play a key role within the project consortium, leading the work package focused on communication, dissemination, and capacity-building activities. Our efforts are aimed at ensuring that the project results have a significant impact at the EU level.
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A Unified Strategy for Digital Transformation
Both the AI Act and the Cyber Resilience Act are crucial components of the EU’s broader strategy to strengthen its digital economy and ensure technological sovereignty. Together, these frameworks address the dual need for innovation and security, laying the foundation for a future where digital technologies can be trusted to deliver both economic benefits and societal value.
- The AI Act will ensure that AI technologies are developed and deployed in a manner that is ethical and beneficial to society.
- The Cyber Resilience Act will bolster Europe’s defenses, ensuring that the digital products and services used across the continent are safe from cyberattacks.
These efforts signal a clear message: Europe is not only committed to being at the forefront of digital innovation but also to setting the highest standards for safety and ethics in the digital realm.
Get involved – Take Action Now
For those working in AI or cybersecurity, now is the time to engage with these transformative initiatives. Whether you’re working in AI, cybersecurity, or developing digital products, the opportunities are vast.
In addition to the regulatory efforts, the Digital Europe Programme and Horizon Europe Programme continue to offer critical funding for businesses and research institutions working on projects that contribute to the EU’s digital transformation. Whether you’re involved in AI, cybersecurity, or another key area, these programmes can be a major source of financing and support for initiatives that align with the EU’s long-term strategy for digital leadership.
Make your move:
- Follow the AI Board’s progress as it builds the framework for AI adoption in Europe.
- Apply to join the CRA Expert Group and contribute to the EU’s digital security future.
- Contact Tiko Pro and explore financing opportunities with EU funds. Let`s see how we can help you get funding. Contact us today so you don`t miss your opportunity applying for a call.
So, can you guess what will be the mayor focus of EU in 2025? Read our previous newsletter Digital Priorities for 2025.
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