OpenAI has launched its EU Economic Blueprint 2.0, introducing initiatives and data insights to accelerate AI adoption across Europe. The Blueprint aims to ensure that people, businesses, and countries can fully benefit from AI, addressing the growing gap between what AI systems are capable of and how the technology is currently being used. Key programs include training 20,000 SMEs with AI skills, supported by Booking.com, and a €500,000 NGO grant to support youth safety and wellbeing research.
The Blueprint highlights Europe’s AI capability overhang—the difference between AI’s potential and actual use. OpenAI’s data shows that while the EU uses 17% more AI “thinking capabilities” than the global average, there are disparities among Member States, with nine countries still below the world average. Closing this capability gap is critical for ensuring European nations remain competitive in the global AI economy. The report recommends strategies such as national AI-in-education frameworks, portable AI skills accreditation, and systematic measurement of adoption and usage.
To support small businesses, OpenAI is introducing the SME AI Accelerator in partnership with Booking.com. The program targets 20,000 SMEs across six countries—France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Ireland, and the UK—and offers in-person workshops and virtual training through OpenAI Academy. The initiative is designed to help SMEs boost productivity and grow their businesses with AI, even for those without technical backgrounds.
OpenAI emphasizes responsible AI adoption and trust as fundamental to Europe’s AI success. The €500,000 Youth Safety Grant Program will fund projects focused on child protection, digital wellbeing, and youth online safety, strengthening collaboration among youth organizations, researchers, and AI developers. OpenAI also remains committed to EU regulatory standards, including the AI Act Code of Practice, to ensure safe and ethical deployment.
The organization plans to expand its OpenAI for Europe initiative, supporting governments in national AI priorities such as education, healthcare, AI skills development, disaster preparedness, cybersecurity, and startup acceleration. By combining policy recommendations, training programs, and partnerships, the EU Economic Blueprint 2.0 sets a roadmap for Europe to lead in AI while equipping citizens, businesses, and governments to leverage AI’s transformative potential.
