City of AI
It might be known as the City of Lights but Paris hopes to illuminate Europe another way; by leading the charge on artificial intelligence and making it the City of AI. President Macron spoke recently at the Elysée Palace ahead of VivaTech, where he said this was a moment of “strategic awakening”. As the global AI revolution intensifies, France is putting its money where its mouth is by launching a new fund to invest exclusively in AI and the quantum ecosystem, as well as supporting a training program to grow France’s AI talent pool. Good news for Europe’s VC community. Indeed, President Macron referred to France and Europe as facing an existential battle, where the ability to create wealth will depend on AI. It is a clear call to arms for Europe’s VC investor community. Will they be up for the challenge ahead? Investing EUR400 million in AI research and talent across nine of France’s universities is likely to help. So here’s a message to end on: if you’re looking for AI talent, call my agent!