The non-profit LAC2 association, which was established in April 2022, invited guests to attend the launch of its AI Hub on September 29. According to a press release, those attending included partners and sponsors, representatives from the public and private sectors, and companies with an interest in AI. LAC2 says the Hub will “become a vibrant center for AI innovation and collaboration and act as a dynamic ecosystem for companies, start-ups, experts and students.”
As Fabian Peter, President of the government of Lucerne, highlighted in his opening speech, the Hub has the potential to create added value and generate new jobs in the region. He added that it is important not to leave the potential of these technologies entirely in the hands of large technology companies.
Donnacha Daly, Head of Studies in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning at Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts, explained that the AI Hub will provide the necessary support to companies that are still hesitating to use AI due to concerns related to costs and infrastructure. It provides these companies with the people, processes and technologies that will help them to get started with AI. According to Mathias Lischer, Head of Promotion & FDI at economic development agency Wirtschaftsförderung Luzern, this minimizes the investment risks.
At the subsequent drinks reception, Jamie Shelley, Lucerne AI Hub Manager, introduced guests to the AI Sandbox, in which members can test and experiment with their AI projects. He also gave them an insight into the technology, process methods and opportunities that are available in the AI Hub.
