“Data means any digital representation of acts, facts or information and any compilation of such acts, facts or information, including in the form of sound, visual or audiovisual recording.” - European Data Governance Act
Data has become a key resource for the development of our society and economy in this digital era. The volume of data worldwide is significantly growing: simultaneously, cloud services are expanding, with data protection in the cloud becoming a central aspect in all sectors.
Excellence in data management and sharing will benefit European citizens and businesses in many ways. The term “big data” is being used more often than ever, creating the need for more research, new tools, and new skills to make the best use of it – and Europe is lagging behind in highly-skilled data scientists, needed across economic sectors: from policy making to business development, through education and learning. However, Europe is currently facing a shortage of highly skilled data scientists needed across economic sectors—from policy making and business development to education and learning.
The European Commission estimates that by 2025, data experts in Europe will reach 10.9 million (compared to 5.7 million in 2018). A range of EU initiatives have been launched to support the European approach to excellence in data. Cloud computing is a key objective to increase Europe's data sovereignty as outlined in the European Data Strategy. The future European Alliance on Industrial Data, Edge and Cloud and other related actions will support businesses and employees use of big data as a driver of the digital transformation. In addition, initiatives such as the upcoming European Alliance on Industrial Data, Edge and Cloud, as well as Gaia‑X—a federated, secure data infrastructure project—are designed to enhance data accessibility, foster innovation, and reinforce Europe's digital autonomy.
Following the European Data Strategy, in February 2022 the Commission proposed the Data Act —a key pillar that will set clear rules on data access and use, particularly for data generated by Internet of Things (IoT) devices. "We want to give consumers and companies even more control over what can be done with their data, clarifying who can access data and on what terms," stated Margrethe Vestager, Executive Vice-President for a Europe fit for the Digital Age. The Data Act is expected to become applicable in September 2025, ensuring fairness and stimulating data-driven innovation across sectors.
Also, the Digital Europe Programme (DIGITAL) is boasting a budget of over €7.6 billion for 2021–2027, investing heavily in learning and training opportunities that will enhance expertise in cloud computing and data management. These investments support the development of advanced digital skills, provide funding for research and innovation, and strengthen the EU’s digital single market by bridging the gap between cutting-edge technology research and market deployment.
This page will take you through EU and national initiatives, to resources, training, funding and career opportunities, and other up-to-date information with regards to data and cloud services. Scroll down the page to see more!
The Platform also offers Basic and Advanced learning paths on Big Data with several trainings and resources, as well as other learning content.
Also, don’t miss the opportunity to exchange your interest with your peers and digital experts across Europe by joining our Community.
