SOFIA – Bulgaria is set to host one of six new European artificial intelligence (AI) factories, as announced by the European Commission’s Representation in Sofia.
The European High-Performance Computing Joint Undertaking, known as “EuroHPC,” has also designated sites for new AI factories in Austria, France, Germany, Poland, and Slovenia. This initiative will be backed by a significant investment of 485 million euros from both national and European sources.
The Bulgarian AI factory, named “Brain++” (BRAIN++), will be situated within Sofia Tech Park and will feature a cutting-edge supercomputer alongside an AI center that aims to serve governmental, educational, and private sectors comprehensively. BRAIN++ will collaborate with other AI factories across Europe and advocate for ethical and responsible practices in AI development, according to the announcement.
Sofia Tech Park noted that Bulgaria successfully acquired a project funded with 90 million euros, competing against some of Europe’s most developed nations, aided by collaboration with the Institute for Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence (INSAIT). The Bulgarian government has pledged to support the project with 50% of the national funding starting in 2026, and the initiative is expected to be implemented over a three-year period.
The INSAIT team is anticipated to contribute to developing models related to earth observation, robotics, and large language models.
The Discoverer++ supercomputer will be equipped with AI systems tailored for robotics, satellite observations, and applications in the fast-moving consumer goods sector. The BRAIN++ center will also create a collaborative cloud-based workspace for small and medium-sized enterprises, providing access to large data sets and organizing training programs for specialists.
The establishment of a network of 13 European AI centers aims to enhance Europe’s position as a leader in innovation and AI. These centers are expected to facilitate access for AI start-ups and SMEs, fostering their growth. (March 12)
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