Europe’s AI future.

Across Germany, Austria and Switzerland, a growing number of organisations are beginning to implement AI solutions, but the question is: are they being bold and fast enough?

Many companies, particularly SMEs, now recognise that AI is becoming a key competitive advantage, and yet we are still spending too much time debating and far too little time implementing.

Can you help?

Absolutely. IPAI aims to close this gap by helping companies adopt real-world AI solutions.

How does IPAI support organisations in introducing AI applications?

Our focus is on three key pillars: Networking and matchmaking, which are about connecting companies and institutions with AI needs to suitable technology partners and research organisations. Collaborating to develop specific use cases. And then of course knowledge and technology transfer to smooth the transition from theory to practice.

Is the way AI is portrayed in the media helpful or more of a hindrance for companies trying to make the right decisions?

Thanks to media coverage, AI has entered the mainstream even faster. Our task now is to help companies filter out the hype and focus on the real value that AI can deliver. Because one thing’s for sure, AI is the key driver of our future competitiveness.

Should companies focus on building in‑house capabilities for implementing AI applications, or should they rely on external partners?

The most successful approach is often a hybrid one. Even SMEs should develop their own AI expertise so they can identify in-house opportunities and manage projects effectively. These processes can then be scaled and enhanced by working with external partners and specialists.

IPAI describes itself as the future “Global Home of Human AI.” What do you mean by that?

Our aim is to build a leading ecosystem for applied AI that puts people at the centre of everything we do. This is what we call the “European Way of AI”—AI that serves people, acts ethically and responsibly, and is built on transparency. Our mission is to establish Germany and Europe as leading AI hubs, and we’ve already made significant progress. Since our launch in 2022, more than 80 member and partner companies have joined our innovation platform, working together on AI‑driven transformation and collaboration. Our next major milestone is just ahead: by the end of the year, we will have started construction of our 30‑hectare IPAI Campus in Heilbronn, which is designed to accommodate up to 5,000 AI experts.

What advice would you give young people about choosing a career path?

The world of work is rapidly changing. With constant technological advances, no one can say with certainty which specific skills will be in demand in the future. I believe that soft skills—empathy, teamwork and interdisciplinary thinking—are becoming increasingly important. While AI will take over many repetitive tasks, it will not replace people who are creative, empathetic and solutions‑oriented, so the most valuable skills for the future are openness, courage and a willingness to keep learning.