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What Is Cyber Valley?

Cyber Valley is Europe’s largest research consortium in the field of artificial intelligence (AI) and modern robotics, located in the Stuttgart-Tübingen region of Germany. Established in 2016, it brings together partners from academia, industry, and government to foster cutting-edge research and innovation in AI.

What Is Cyber Valley?
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Table of Contents

1. Origins and Objectives of Cyber Valley

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Cyber Valley was initiated to strengthen research and development in AI and robotics, aiming to bridge the gap between fundamental research and industrial application. The consortium focuses on creating a vibrant ecosystem that promotes collaboration between science and business, facilitating rapid knowledge exchange and innovation.

2. Founding Partners and Supporters

Cyber Valley’s founding partners include prominent academic institutions and industry leaders:

  • Academic Partners: Max Planck Society with the Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, University of Stuttgart, and University of Tübingen.

  • Industry Partners: Amazon, BMW AG, Daimler AG, Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Robert Bosch GmbH, ZF Friedrichshafen AG, and IAV GmbH.

In 2019, Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft joined as a partner, further enhancing the consortium’s research capabilities. Additionally, Cyber Valley receives support from foundations such as the Christian Bürkert Foundation, Gips-Schüle Foundation, Vector Foundation, and Carl Zeiss Foundation.

3. Cyber Valley GmbH: The Organizational Backbone

Cyber Valley GmbH serves as the central organizer and service provider for the consortium. Based in Stuttgart and Tübingen, the GmbH coordinates activities across the Cyber Valley community, including research initiatives, public engagement, and the promotion of entrepreneurship. It plays a crucial role in shaping the future of AI by fostering collaboration between academic institutions, industry partners, and startups.

4. Research Excellence and Innovation

Cyber Valley is committed to advancing research in AI and robotics. Key research areas include machine learning, computer vision, and intelligent systems. The consortium has established multiple research groups at participating universities and institutes, such as the Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, to drive innovation and scientific discovery.

The Cyber Valley Research Fund, established by six of the founding industrial partners, supports research projects that combine academic and industrial interests, fostering a collaborative environment for groundbreaking research.

5. AI Incubator and Startup Support

To promote entrepreneurship, Cyber Valley offers an AI Incubator program designed to help researchers and technologists translate their AI and robotics research into viable products and applications. This six-week program includes immersive sessions, mentorship, and networking opportunities with investors and industry experts. Participants conclude the program with a final pitch at the Demo Day, showcasing their innovations.

Additionally, the Cyber Valley Start-up Network fosters a community of entrepreneurs by providing access to events, resources, and a platform to connect with other startups and industry partners.

6. Public Engagement and Ethical Considerations

Cyber Valley places a strong emphasis on public engagement and the ethical implications of AI. Through initiatives like the Public Advisory Board and various outreach programs, the consortium encourages dialogue between researchers, policymakers, and the public to explore the societal impact of AI and ensure responsible development and deployment of AI technologies.

7. Infrastructure and Future Developments

In May 2025, Cyber Valley commenced the construction of a new building with 7,400 square meters of research space for robotics and artificial intelligence on the Max Planck Campus in Büsnau, Stuttgart. This facility will house researchers from the Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems and the University of Stuttgart, along with partners from science, industry, and startups, further solidifying Cyber Valley’s position as a leading center for AI research and innovation.

Conclusion

Cyber Valley represents a significant effort to position Germany and Europe at the forefront of artificial intelligence and robotics research. By uniting academic excellence, industrial strength, and entrepreneurial spirit, Cyber Valley fosters an environment conducive to innovation and technological advancement. Its comprehensive approach to research, education, and public engagement ensures that AI developments are both cutting-edge and socially responsible, shaping a future where technology serves the greater good.

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