AI, Automation, Next-Generation #Connectivity, neuromorphic computing, and robotics will continue to drive transformative change across industries, calling for interdisciplinary, collaborative innovation projects. Here are our predictions of the key themes and challenges that will shape industrial innovation in 2025:
Brain-inspired computing, powered by #neuromorphic systems will enable adaptive #robotics and real-time decision-making, enhancing autonomy and energy efficiency in industrial systems. This disruptive technology calls for a national innovation platform fostering industrial leadership, collaboration, resilience and competitiveness and we’re looking forward collaborating with the neuromorphic computing community to presenting a first draft of strategic priorities to funding agency Vinnova in the summer of 2025.
Automation, Digitalization, and Industrial AI will be pivotal in boosting economic competitiveness and complying with new legislation on traceability and digital product passports. The convergence of AI, cyber-physical systems (CPS), and robotics will drive new business models, fostering collaboration between tech firms, manufacturers, and research institutions. Investments in cloud infrastructure, smart manufacturing, and predictive AI-driven tools is already reshaping industries, particularly in sectors like manufacturing, logistics and mining. Persephone is just one of many examples where companies like Epiroc and KGHM collaborate with academia and software SMEs to pilot technologies such as risk-aware navigation, full digitalisation of the extraction process, online near-mine exploration core analysis and integration of related data analytics to the mine expansion.
Meanwhile, #cybersecurity will remain a high priority as digital transformations across industries increase the risk of cyber threats. Supply chain resilience will be critical as industries continue to integrate IoT and AI-driven systems. Projects such as Arrowhead are great examples of the European research community coming together to support the industry and tech providers with interoperability and digital resilience and help safeguard critical infrastructure from cyber disruptions and operational failures.
Changes in innovation funding driven by internationalization and competitiveness policy. The Swedish #AI commission recently published its investigation and concluding recommendations, and in December Swedish Government presented a new research and innovation bill. Meanwhile, the European Commission’s are progressing the #CleanIndustryDeal and #Competitive Compass.
This shift may prioritize strategic industries such as advanced manufacturing, AI, and green technologies, with more targeted research investments. Clusters of Excellence and regulatory sandboxes will help accelerate innovation while ensuring responsible AI deployment.