EIT Deep Tech Talent Initiative: The European Institute of Innovation and Technology has announced its success in achieving its mission to strengthen Europe’s technological capabilities
The EIT Deep Tech Talent Initiative has successfully trained one million individuals across Europe in advanced technology fields, showing significant strides in strengthening the EU’s global competitiveness.
Collaborative efforts across Europe
Launched in 2022, the EIT Deep Tech Talent Initiative wanted to address the growing need for a highly skilled workforce capable of driving forward the green and digital transitions. To reach this goal, the initiative joined forces with more than 600 partner organisations and multiple EIT Knowledge and Innovation Communities (KICs).
These collaborations formed a wide network of training providers, tech companies, universities, public authorities, and financial backers, all working together to build Europe’s future talent pipeline. The initiative is open to learners of all ages, including school students, university students, professionals, and entrepreneurs.
A range of training opportunities
The Deep Tech Talent Initiative offers over 210 specialised courses in various high-demand fields. These include Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, Quantum and Advanced Computing, Robotics, Biotechnology, and Sustainable Energy, among others. Sixteen per cent of the courses focus specifically on AI and machine learning, highlighting the growing importance of these technologies in industry and research.
Most of the training programs are designed for professional and academic development, with an average duration of 705 hours, providing participants with in-depth knowledge and hands-on skills.
Participation across countries and sectors
The initiative’s success is evident in the scale of participation and the diversity of contributors. Key organisations that played a significant role include JA Europe, Intel Corporation, Generation UK, Generation Italy, Generation Spain, UiPath, Helixconnect Europe, Tampere University of Applied Sciences, MinnaLearn, and Kodluyoruz (We Code).
Countries that recorded the highest number of trained talents include Norway, Austria, Greece, Ukraine, and France, showcasing widespread engagement across Europe. Women represent 36% of those trained, reflecting ongoing efforts to promote gender balance in STEM fields.
With deep tech industries such as semiconductors, photonics, blockchain, virtual and augmented reality, and advanced manufacturing poised to shape the next era of technological advancement, the EIT Deep Tech Talent Initiative is laying the groundwork for sustainable economic growth.
This initiative plays a key role in supporting the European Union’s broader strategic objectives under the Union of Skills initiative and Horizon Europe framework. It aims to ensure that Europe not only keeps pace with but also leads innovation on the global stage.
Although the original goal of one million talents trained has now been reached ahead of schedule, the EIT Deep Tech Talent Initiative is expected to continue. As technology evolves rapidly, the need for continuous upskilling remains crucial.
