Data Labs: bridging Data and AI ecosystems through AI-ready foundations
Data Labs are recognised in the European Data Union Strategy as the building blocks of Europe’s AI ecosystem. Data Labs are introduced as specialised facilities, aimed to link data holders, common European data spaces, domain-specific data ecosystems, and the EU AI ecosystem, providing a portfolio of services to convert high-quality data into concrete AI deployment. While first Data Labs are being established within AI Factories, it is expected that further Data Labs will be set up independently to address specific sectoral or research needs.
This workshop aligns with the BDVA community’s objective of supporting the successful establishment and evolution of Data Labs across Europe, leveraging its expertise, community, initiatives, and network to foster and ensure a successful connection between AI and data ecosystems.
The session will bring together experts from both the AI and data communities to identify the real data needs of AI practitioners, with a particular focus on AI readiness, assessing to what extent existing data ecosystems (e.g. Common European Data Spaces) can address those needs. Participants will hear firsthand experiences from initiatives that are already developing and supporting Data Labs (AI Factories and relevant R&I projects). The workshop will explore how other initiatives (e.g. BDVA i-Spaces) can also play a key role in the establishment and evolution of Data Labs, addressing key capabilities and providing additional services.
The session aims to define a collaborative roadmap for Data Labs, clarify how different stakeholders can contribute throughout their evolution, and identify practical guidance for users. The workshop will conclude with a set of recommendations to support the next phase of Data Lab deployment and strengthen their role as the bridge between Europe’s data and AI ecosystems.
Structure of the session:
- BDVA introduction and setting up the scene
- Policy perspective and requirements on Data Labs (TBC)
- Data Labs current implementation
- Is it enough? The view from AI practitioners and potential users
- The BDVA i-Spaces role as Data/AI innovation hubs
- Discussion & exchange with the audience
