France’s AI National Strategy

In November 2021, the President of the Republic adopted the National Strategy for AI under the ‘France 2030’ plan. This strategy builds upon the initial phase of the strategy, ‘AI for Humanity,’ implemented from 2018 to 2022. Its primary objective is to bolster France’s AI capabilities and drive economic success.

The strategy aims to achieve several key goals:

1. Enhance the nation’s AI skills.
2. Establish France as a leader in embedded and trustworthy AI.
3. Accelerate AI integration into the economy.

The plan revolves around two main pillars:

1. IA-Cluster: Transforming French training and research centers into global AI hubs. This involves creating centers of excellence for AI training and research across France, with the goal of doubling the number of AI specialists by 2030 and elevating at least three French institutions into the top 50 global universities specialising in AI.
2. IA-Booster: Supporting the digital transformation of French SMEs by facilitating the integration of AI technologies into their operations.

The strategy aims to address the shortage of AI, data science, and robotics skills in the labour market. Financial incentives are provided to higher education and research institutions to expand training offerings at all levels and encourage talent retraining or upskilling.

The primary focus of this second phase is to attract and educate the best international AI talents. It is vital for France to exert influence on the global AI landscape and attract future industry leaders, especially amidst digital skills shortages.