In October 2025, Romania was officially selected by the European High Performance Computing Joint Undertaking (EuroHPC JU) to host one of six new European AI Factories, alongside the Czech Republic, Spain, Poland, Lithuania, and the Netherlands. These new centers join the existing 13 AI Factories, further expanding the European network dedicated to artificial intelligence under the EuroHPC – AI Factories programme, a European initiative focused on developing AI innovation centers.

RO AI Factory is part of the European Union's strategy to establish a network of AI Factories across Europe, designed to provide access to AI computing infrastructure and reduce dependence on external platforms.

The RO AI Factory project will be hosted and co-coordinated by the National Institute for Research and Development in Informatics – ICI Bucharest, acting as the hosting institution, together with the National University of Science and Technology POLITEHNICA Bucharest, in collaboration with a strong consortium of national partners from the fields of research, education, and industry.

The AI Factory will support startups, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and AI researchers by providing access to high-performance computing (HPC) resources, technical expertise, training, and innovation support.

The project includes the procurement and operation of a state-of-the-art supercomputer optimized for artificial intelligence, as well as the development of a comprehensive portfolio of advanced services and infrastructure dedicated to research, business, and the public sector.

According to official communications regarding the EuroHPC – AI Factories programme, RO AI Factory aims to transform SMEs from passive adopters of technology into active innovators in artificial intelligence by prioritizing access to infrastructure, specialized services, and training.

"Through this strategic investment, Romania is taking its place among Europe's leading players in artificial intelligence. POLITEHNICA Bucharest has the tradition, expertise, and human capital needed to turn this project into a driver of scientific and economic progress. It is a unique opportunity to develop cutting-edge technologies here in Romania that will have an impact across society," said Mihnea Costoiu, Rector of the National University of Science and Technology POLITEHNICA Bucharest.

Expected to become operational in 2027, the project represents an important step in Romania's efforts to reduce the digital gap with the European average.

Sources:

ICI Bucharest – National Premiere: ICI Bucharest and POLITEHNICA Bucharest Build Romania's First AI Factory
National University of Science and Technology POLITEHNICA Bucharest – https://upb.ro/premiera-nationala-politehnica-bucuresti-si-ici-construiesc-prima-ai-factory-din-romania/