Application center for AI and quantum computing

"Our application center for AI and quantum computing will be a central European lighthouse where research, business and start-ups come together. With Robin Schmidt, an experienced shaper of change processes in business, politics and research is taking over the office," said Hesse's Digital Minister Prof. Dr. Kristina Sinemus, whose ministry is funding the center. Robin Schmidt has extensive expertise in digital infrastructure, AI applications and stakeholder management from management positions at mobile communications provider 1&1 and Versatel, among others.

In his new position, Schmidt will initially drive forward the further strategic expansion of the center and its final development phase: "We want to bring users and providers of future technologies together more quickly on the basis of concrete solutions and thus make artificial intelligence and quantum computing tangible - for start-ups, business, research and society," says Schmidt.

Hessen has internationally recognized universities, colleges and non-university research institutions. Over 130,000 people work in Hessen's digital economy. Together with partners from this ecosystem, the application center aims to bundle the great innovation potential in Hessen and create a place where innovative technology development meets commercial application. An interactive showroom, which not only invites start-ups, SMEs and industry to test and pitch tech projects, but is also regularly open to the public, offers particular added value.

The first measures under the new management will include the completion of the House of Digital Transformation's move to Bertramshof in January 2026, the establishment of a ten-person team and the implementation of collaborations with partners from business and science. The latter will also move to the new AI hotspot as subtenants, among other things, with the aim of inspiring national and international partners for Hessian innovations. In addition to her current duties, IHK Managing Director Patricia C. Borna will support the team at Bertramshof during the start-up phase from May 1.

The Application Center for AI and Quantum Computing is designed as a central place of work and innovation for the Hessian AI ecosystem. The aim is to actively shape the future here. In addition to access to capital and technical infrastructure, interested companies and partners can expect numerous cooperation and networking opportunities, matchmaking and training measures. The project is being implemented under the leadership of the House of Digital Transformation. The Hessian Ministry for Digitalization and Innovation is providing funding of around 10 million euros.