Published on: January 31, 2025 / update from: January 31, 2025 - Author: Konrad Wolfenstein
Deepseek and Stargate competitor from Europe? SAP is planning European AI offensive with 40 billion euros-with reservation-Image: Xpert.digital
European AI independence: SAPs of visionary plan in focus
40 billion for progress: SAPs strategy for a strong AI Europe
The technological landscape is in a rapid change, driven by progress in artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud computing. In this dynamic environment, SAP, Europe's largest software company, positions itself as a driving force for innovation and competitiveness. With an impressive investment volume of 40 billion euros, which is to flow over a period of five years, SAP is planning a European answer to the US “Stargate” project. This ambitious initiative should not only strengthen the European AI landscape, but also reduce the dependence on non-European technologies. However, the implementation of this project is linked to the condition that the European Union (EU) creates a coherent and beneficial regulatory framework for AI projects.
Europe's leading software group is planning an investment of 40 billion euros in a European alternative to the US project Stargate-but provided that the EU creates better framework conditions for AI projects.
The background: Stargate and the global AI competition landscape
The US project "Stargate", launched by President Donald Trump, provides for a massive investment of $ 500 billion in the AI infrastructure. This step illustrates the endeavors of the United States to take on a leading role in AI development and application. In view of this strategic initiative, it becomes clear that the AI sector has become a central battlefield in global competition. The rise of AI not only has an impact on technological innovations, but also on economic and geopolitical balance of power.
Against this background, the importance of SAPs announcement becomes all the more clear. The software company, known for his company software and its expertise in the cloud area, does not want to be satisfied with watching the developments from outside. The 40 billion euros that SAP promises for the European AI offensive are a clear signal to politics and competitors that Europe is willing to use its own strengths to play a major role in the global AI competition.
The goals of the SAP initiative
The planned investment of SAP pursues several strategic goals. First, it should flow into the expansion of the cloud infrastructure in Europe. A robust cloud infrastructure is essential for the storage, processing and provision of the large amounts of data required for the development and application of AI systems. SAP recognizes the importance of a sovereign cloud that protects the data of European companies and ensures compliance with European data protection standards. The investment in research and development (F&E) in the area of AI is another central pillar of the initiative. SAP plans to invest in the development of new AI algorithms, models and applications that are tailored to the specific needs of European companies. In addition, the integration of AI into the existing SAP software solutions is promoted in order to offer customers added value and to accelerate digital transformation.
The demands to the EU: a uniform regulatory framework
The CEO of SAP, Christian Klein, emphasized at the annual press conference in Walldorf that the implementation of the investment plans is linked to clear political framework. He criticized the current situation in Europe, in which different national regulations make it difficult to scale AI solutions across Europe. Klein summed up: The wake -up call for Europe is loud and clear:
"We would also be willing to invest more than 40 billion in Europe in the cloud infrastructure as well as research and development."
He pointed out the need for a sovereign cloud for Europe instead of pursuing 27 different national approaches. In his opinion, the different interpretation of the European AI law in the 27 member states is a great obstacle to the development and distribution of AI solutions. This "fragmentation" of the market makes it difficult to develop innovative AI applications and to use it on a broad basis . A uniform regulation, which is recognized and enforced by all EU member states, is therefore essential to ensure Europe's competitiveness in this field of future. Klein warned against simply copying the strategies of the USA or China. He argued that it was not absolutely necessary to grant subsidies for hardware as long as the regulatory framework enables investments and promotes development.
AI applications: The driving force behind growth
The importance of KI for SAP is also reflected in the current business figures. In the fourth quarter of 2024, half of the SAP AI components cloud deals contained. For 2025, the company predicts growth of cloud sales by 26 to 28 percent. These figures illustrate the growing demand for AI solutions and their importance for the future growth of SAP. The integration of AI in corporate software is increasingly becoming the standard because companies recognize that AI-based applications can make their business processes more efficient, more flexible and intelligent. From the automation of routine tasks to the analysis of large amounts of data to personalized customer approach - the fields of application from AI in the company software are diverse and offer enormous potential for the optimization of business processes and the creation of competitive advantages.
The need for a European AI strategy
SAPS Initiative underlines the need for a coherent European AI strategy, which is based on common goals and values. The EU must eliminate the obstacles that inhibit the development and use of AI in Europe. In addition to a uniform regulatory framework, investments in research and formation are of crucial importance in order to strengthen the European AI landscape. The promotion of competence centers, the support of start-ups in the AI area and the creation of training and further education programs are crucial steps to fully exploit the potential of AI in Europe.
The role of data and data protection
Another important aspect is the handling of data. AI systems need large amounts of data to learn and perform their tasks. The availability of data and the responsible handling of it are therefore crucial for the success of AI initiatives. With the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), the EU has taken an important step to ensure data protection. However, it is important to find a balanced approach that guarantees data protection without hindering the development of AI solutions. The creation of data trustees and the promotion of data exchange in compliance with strict data protection regulations could help master this challenge.
The ethical dimensions of the AI
The development and application of AI are not only technological and economic, but also ethical questions. The EU has set itself the goal of developing an ethical AI that corresponds to European values. This includes ensuring that AI systems are transparent, understandable and not discriminatory. The avoidance of bias in AI algorithms and compliance with high ethical standards are crucial to gain the public's trust in AI systems and to promote their acceptance. An independent ethical examination of AI applications and the inclusion of experts from various areas in the development process could help achieve these goals.
The cooperation between the state and private sector
SAP emphasizes the importance of close cooperation between the state and the private sector. Coping with the challenges related to AI development requires a common effort. The government plays an important role in creating the necessary framework, promoting research and education and supporting companies in the AI area. The private sector, on the other hand, is the innovation engine that develops new AI solutions and brings on the market. Close cooperation between the two sectors is therefore essential to fully exploit the potential of AI in Europe and benefit European citizens and companies. Christian Klein urged: "It is urgently needed that we act - both the state and the private sector".
The future of AI in Europe
The initiative of SAP is an important signal for the future of AI in Europe. It shows that European companies are willing to face the challenges and to play a leading role in global competition. However, the chances of success depend on the willingness of the EU to create the necessary framework conditions and implement a coherent European AI strategy. The opportunities associated with the development and use of AI are enormous. The ability to use AI systems effectively and responsibly will be crucial for the competitiveness of European companies and the prosperity of the continent. If the EU manages to create the necessary framework and to promote cooperation between the state and the private sector, Europe can become a global center for AI innovation.
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