The European Union’s strategic vision for 2024-2029 places data at the heart of its growth and policymaking. President Ursula von der Leyen’s proposal for an EU Data Union Strategy aim to unlock untapped data, ensuring accessibility for all, especially small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), while leveraging technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI). This inclusive approach will strengthen businesses across the EU and drive innovation.
Reports from Enrico Letta (Much more than a market) and Mario Draghi (EU competitiveness: Looking ahead) reinforce this vision, advocating for a centralised EU Knowledge Commons, greater data-sharing, and stronger links between data creation and policymaking. Enrico Letta’s focus on granularity in data aligns directly with the GRANULAR project, which aims to provide localised data for better decision-making. Mario Draghi highlights the importance of sustainability, noting that while data centre energy consumption will rise, the EU must plan for a tech-neutral and decarbonised economy.
For GRANULAR, this means enhanced support for using granular data in policymaking, improved access to data for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and a focus on sustainability. However, challenges remain, particularly in addressing the digital divide across EU regions. New EU Commissioner portfolios on Tech Sovereignty, Security, and Skills will play a key role in shaping the environment for data innovation.
As the EU advances its data-driven strategy, the GRANULAR project is working to build a more competitive and informed Europe.
