Riga, Latvia — Today, a group of 16 companies announced the establishment of the Latvian Artificial Intelligence Association (MILA), a non-profit organization. Starting September 2024, our aim is to promote the development of artificial intelligence in Latvia. The association's main task is to strengthen the competitiveness of Latvian AI companies in international markets, promote research, and educate businesses and the public about the benefits of AI.
MILA co-founder and scientist Dr. Ēvalds Urtāns said: "How much should Latvia focus on supporting the implementation of artificial intelligence technologies? Given its global significance, it can be equated to energy independence technology or national security technology. This is precisely why a group of entrepreneurs is taking action, not just talking. This is only the beginning."
MILA's work focuses on developing Latvia's AI ecosystem as a whole, collaborating with local businesses and educational institutions. The association plans to implement various projects to support industry growth in Latvia and ensure that AI is developed and used responsibly and safely.
Eurostat data from 2023 reveals a disparity in the use of artificial intelligence in Latvian companies compared to neighboring countries, where this indicator reaches only 4.5%. The association is committed to changing this situation by promoting the adoption of AI technologies in Latvia and ensuring that our country becomes a leader in innovative and digitally advanced regions.
The establishment of MILA has brought together a wide range of recognized companies in Latvia's IT and investment sectors, including technology leaders such as "Tilde" and "Tet", investment funds "theIntelligent VC" and "Twino Investments", consulting company "Helmes Latvia", and many other Latvian companies. This diverse membership ensures that various industry perspectives will be considered in the association's work, promoting synergy between science and business in the field of artificial intelligence.
The association will implement talent development programs to attract and develop young people in the field of artificial intelligence. In collaboration with Latvian educational institutions, we will implement programs that will allow young people to develop their skills and gain valuable experience, while providing association members with the opportunity to identify and attract future industry specialists. This will promote the integration of new talents into the artificial intelligence industry and strengthen Latvia's position in this field.
Latvia has repeatedly proven its ability to overcome challenges and achieve success. Although our development path has varied over time, we believe that by working together, we can achieve even more. This association is a crucial step in promoting collaboration between entrepreneurs, researchers, and educational institutions, jointly shaping Latvia's future.
Source: Eurostat
