Europe’s economy is at a critical juncture as the digital transformation race intensifies. The European Commission is preparing a new wave of strategic legislative proposals, including a forthcoming Digital Networks Act and an AI and Cloud Act, which will play a key role in shaping the future of advanced connectivity and digital services across the EU. These proposals come in parallel with broader investment initiatives aimed at supporting the development and deployment of transformative technologies, such as InvestAI. Emerging innovations promise to improve productivity, sustainability and economic resilience across entire industries - from automotive and manufacturing to healthcare and financial services. Global competition is mounting, particularly from tech frontrunners, the US and China. Against a backdrop of geopolitical uncertainty and evolving trade dynamics, Europe faces an urgent need to accelerate innovation, reduce regulatory bottlenecks and stimulate investment in digital infrastructure and services. 

What are the latest priorities for European policymakers and business leaders in tackling the complexities of digital sovereignty and supporting economic growth? How is the Commission’s approach to infrastructure and regulation evolving to attract more investment in advanced connectivity networks and digital services such as AI? Is there a danger that watering down landmark digital legislative acts could jeopardise democratic safeguards and economic progress? Where and how is progress being made in reducing cross-border fragmentation and ensuring access to fast, reliable and secure connectivity? 

The FT Connect Europe Forum, hosted by the Financial Times in partnership with Connect Europe, will bring together industry CEOs, policymakers, investors, innovators, NGOs and civil society. The discussions will explore the policies, investment and collaboration needed to strengthen Europe’s digital capabilities and close the innovation gap with global tech leaders. 

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