Abstract
The RO AI Factory aims to establish a comprehensive national ecosystem for artificial intelligence innovation and adoption in Romania, serving as a catalyst for research excellence, industrial transformation, and societal impact. Beyond building infrastructure, the initiative focuses on delivering advanced, user-orientated AI services that empower researchers, SMEs, start-ups, and public institutions to experiment, collaborate, and innovate using state-of-the-art digital resources. The Factory will offer an integrated portfolio of services, including AI model development and training support, federated data space management, algorithm libraries, and repositories for reusable software assets. Dedicated user assistance, consulting, and mentoring programs will guide organisations in applying AI solutions effectively and responsibly. Complementary capacity-building measures will enhance Romania’s human capital in AI through a National AI Training and Skills Development Programme targeting students, professionals, and policymakers. The RO AI Factory will also run an AI Start-up Accelerator and Incubation Network, providing mentorship, access to expertise, and co-working facilities to foster entrepreneurship and technology transfer. Engagement with SMEs will be a strategic priority, enabling them to integrate AI into products and processes, thus driving competitiveness and sustainability. By working together with Digital Innovation Hubs and European AI networks, the RO AI Factory will promote sharing of knowledge, follow EU guidelines for reliable AI, and spread results widely. Acting as a service-driven platform, it will bridge the gap between research and market deployment, strengthen Romania’s role in the European AI ecosystem, and contribute to a more inclusive and innovation-driven digital Europe.