News item | 27-06-2025 | 08:00
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is the technology that will determine our economy, safety and way of life in the coming years. But at the moment the most important innovations come from the United States and China. That makes Europe, and therefore also the Netherlands, too dependent on others. We should not want that for both our digital independence and economic strength. That is why the cabinet and region together focus on € 200 million financing for a Dutch AI factory in Groningen.
The AI factory is a powerful innovation hub where entrepreneurs, researchers and governments together build the techniques of tomorrow and share knowledge. Companies experiment with AI applications, store data safely and use a supercomputer with enormous computing power. It will be a breeding ground for innovation, from smart agriculture to better care, and from energy networks to safety, defense and manufacturing industry.
Minister Karremans (Economic Affairs): “AI is going to fundamentally change our economy and society. But those who do not develop the technology themselves depend on others. That is why we are fully committed to a strong, Dutch AI infrastructure. This is not a luxury, but pure need to maintain our digital independence and competitive power.”
The investment stems from a powerful cooperation between the government, the Groningen/Northern Drenthe region and European partners. The cabinet contributes € 70 million, the regional directors bear from the Economic Agenda Nij Begun Another € 60 million. The cabinet also has a consortium of Surf,, ” AIC4NL,, ” TNO and Collaboration north a European co -financing application of € 70 million submitted. This allows the total investment to reach € 200 million.
Groningen is the intended location for this AI factory. The region has a strong network of educational institutions and innovative companies, the technical knowledge and space.
This investment is more than just technology. It is a choice for economic growth, for independence and for a strong future for the Netherlands. If the application goes according to plan, the AI factory will be put into use in 2026 and the supercomputer runs at full power at the beginning of 2027.
Reading here The letter to Parliament on the AI factory in Groningen.