Under the Digital Europe program, the European Union will provide Ukraine with access to funding for projects in the field of artificial intelligence, high-precision computing and cybersecurity.

The Digital Europe program is part of the digital visa-free regime with the European Union. It is designed for seven years and provides funding for the development of projects in five areas:

• high-performance computing – 2.2 billion euros;
• artificial intelligence – 2.1 billion euros;
• use of digital technologies in the economy and society – 1.1 billion euros;
• digital skills – 580 million euros;
• cyber security – only available to EU member states.

From the autumn of 2022, Ukrainian companies can apply for financing. Study programmes, offers and application details will be posted on the Digital Europe website shortly.

The total funding of the program is 7.5 billion Euros. Ukraine is provided with 6 billion euros to finance projects in these areas. They will be allocated in seven years.

The member country of the program ensures that the fees are paid. However, in 2022-2023, the EU freed Ukraine from them and provided a 95% discount for 2025-2027.

Recall that in August 2021, the Ministry of Digital Transformation and Ukroboronprom signed a memorandum of intent to join forces to develop the digital economy, innovation and artificial intelligence in the country’s defense sector.

In May, the Cabinet approved the national AI development plan for 2021-2024.