“Artificial Intelligence is not just a technology, it’s a cultural shift, an opportunity for economic development, and an ethical commitment.”
With these words, Enrico Zio, Scientific Director of Datrix | Embrace the AI Challenge, captured the essence of digital transformation during his speech at the Euronext Growth Milan ECM Observatory focused on the evolution of AI-driven SMEs.
The message is clear: to foster a competitive and sustainable AI ecosystem, a shared strategy is needed—one that brings together education, skills, governance, and investment. Above all, strong collaboration among companies, institutions, and research bodies is essential.
According to Observatory data, AI-focused SMEs listed on Euronext Growth Milan have recorded strong performance over the past 12 months:
Solid and Dynamic Growth in Numbers
- €996 million in aggregated revenue (+4.1% YoY)
- Average EBITDA margin of 16%
- 7,044 employees specialized in AI and digital transformation
- +30% increase in AI investments
These numbers reflect the growing strategic importance of the sector for Europe’s industrial competitiveness and technological autonomy.
Zio’s Appeal: Clear Rules That Do Not Stifle Innovation
In his address, Enrico Zio emphasized the need for balanced regulation: “It is essential to define requirements and controls that don’t hinder innovation but still protect users and citizens from immature or harmful uses of AI.” This approach aligns with the European AI Act as well as Datrix’s core philosophy of responsible, transparent, and measurable innovation.
Building Europe’s AI Future Together
Datrix has long advocated for a model of innovation in which technology is a means to generate both economic value and social impact. This requires:
- Promoting an AI culture within companies through education and hands-on support
- Creating collaborative ecosystems between startups, SMEs, universities, and large enterprises
- Supporting applied research through public and private funding, avoiding fragmentation and duplication
“Sharing experiences, knowledge, and best practices is the first step to making AI a growth engine for all of Europe,” Zio concluded.
