German Chancellor Friedrich Merz told businesses to leverage their existing data to gain an economic edge, a call to action issued just as Nvidia unveiled plans to invest in four German startups. The chipmaker's move is part of its nearly $10 billion commitment to companies, universities and research institutions across Europe, announced at the Invest in Germany Summit in Berlin on Monday.
The four startups receiving support are Agile Robots, Avelios Medical, Mirelo and Reflex Aerospace. Nvidia did not disclose the specific size of the investments for each firm. Agile Robots develops AI-powered robots for manufacturing, logistics and healthcare. Avelios Medical builds AI-powered hospital management software. Mirelo develops AI models that generate audio for videos, and Reflex Aerospace designs and builds satellites.
Merz framed the investments against a backdrop of national efforts to accelerate AI adoption in industry. He stated that Germany aims to become a leader in integrating AI into key sectors, specifically naming manufacturing, machinery and the automotive industry. Describing the technology as a major opportunity for the country's economy, Merz urged small- and medium-sized businesses to capitalize on the data they already hold. He described utilizing this available data as a genuine secret and advantage for Germany.
Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang aligned with Merz's perspective, highlighting Germany's expertise in manufacturing, mathematics and science. Huang asserted that AI would strengthen rather than replace industrial capabilities.
"AI can only augment your capability, it will not replace your capability," Huang said, characterizing the technology as a new instrument for businesses.
Beyond startup investments, Nvidia is expanding its collaboration with the German federal government through its "Industry 4.0 Platform." This initiative brings together representatives from government, industry, research and trade associations to speed up industrial AI adoption. On Monday, the government and Nvidia signed a joint declaration of intent focused on advancing AI models for industrial use.
Siemens also announced new AI solutions developed with Nvidia at its factory in Erlangen earlier in the day. The company stated these technologies could reduce engineering work involved in preparing production by up to 85%. Additionally, Siemens reported that AI-powered production planning could cut costs by as much as 20%.
Huang's visit to Germany follows a trip to France last week, where he announced investments in four French startups and met with President Emmanuel Macron to discuss AI development. The Nvidia CEO is scheduled to deliver a keynote address in Berlin on Wednesday.