In an effort to strengthen Europe’s AI research ecosystem and competitiveness, today,Peter Sarlin is launching Foundation PS. The foundation aims to create a long-term and effective funding model that strengthens AI research, helps attract world-class talent, and drives commercial success in Europe.
The foundation launches with multiple endowed professorships dedicated to AI, which will serve as a basis for long-term research excellence, aimed at driving forward Europe’s competitiveness on the global AI stage. As Europe faces increasing pressure to keep pace with technological advancements, this initiative aspires to ensure the continent’s position in AI innovation and its commercial applications.
Foundation PS and endowed professorships
Through a donation totaling 10 million euro, Foundation PS is launching with a commitment to initiate 10-15 endowed professorships in AI. The professorships are to be filled with persons who must be internationally academically meritorious and also have experience in applying research in practice, measured by scientific impact and private and/or public sector impact, experience and track record. Foundation PS intends to support the network of endowed professorships by supporting and promoting their research in AI (e.g. through grants, scholarships, and other direct support) and by organizing conferences, events and training related to AI
Building a Vibrant AI Ecosystem: Public Investment and New AI Research Center
Alongside the foundation’s investment in professorships, Finland is committing to a significant public investment in AI research. Europe’s second ELLIS Institute will be established in Finland, working in tandem with the foundation to grow a leading hub for AI research and development. Together, these efforts aim at forming a backbone of Europe’s long-term AI strategy.
As part of establishing the ELLIS Institute, the Finnish Ministry of Education and Culture released a strategic funding initiative, with a permanent annual funding commitment of 10 million euros allocated to AI research. These public and private investments combined are set to make a substantial impact on Europe’s AI capabilities.
These investments complement Finland’s existing AI infrastructure. The country hosts LUMI, Europe’s most powerful supercomputer and a critical resource for AI research, with a unique compute quote reserved for Finnish research initiatives. The Finnish government has also committed to host a more powerful next-generation EuroHPC supercomputer, set to be operational in 2027. Together with the ELLIS Institute and new professorships, these elements create a comprehensive AI research ecosystem.
Europe’s AI Future: Attracting Talent and Building Competitiveness
Foundation PS believes that securing and developing top AI talent is essential for Europe’s future. Initiatives like the ELLIS Institute have highlighted the importance of creating world-class research environments, but further action is needed to ensure that Europe remains a leader in both AI innovation and commercialization. The endowed professorships funded by Foundation PS are designed to create the conditions necessary for sustained research excellence and long-term impact.